Genetic Counsellor
Help patients and families understand inherited conditions and the implications of genetic testing.
This UK genetic counsellor career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £35,000 - £45,000
- Mid-career salary
- £45,000 - £55,000
- Senior salary
- £60,000 - £75,000
- Work environment
- Hospital, clinic or community setting
- Time to entry
- 3 - 5 years (MSc + training)
- Degree required
- Required (MSc)
- Category
- Healthcare and Care
What a Genetic Counsellor does
Help patients and families understand inherited conditions and the implications of genetic testing.
- Cancer Genetics - Counselling families on hereditary cancer risk.
- Prenatal Genetics - Counselling on prenatal screening and diagnosis.
- Paediatric Genetics - Counselling families with paediatric genetic conditions.
- Cardiac Genetics - Inherited cardiac conditions counselling.
How to become a Genetic Counsellor
- Look up Genetic Counsellor roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Genetic Counsellor - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Genetics
- Counselling skills
- Empathy
- Reporting
- Family dynamics