PG Diploma in Genetic Counselling: Eligibility, Admission, Fees, Syllabus, Career Options

PG Diploma in Genetic Counselling: Eligibility, Admission, Fees, Syllabus, Career Options

Edited By Moksh Dheri | Updated on Jul 03, 2025 10:11 AM IST

Post Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling is a diploma-level course. The course duration is one year, spread across two semesters. Genetic Counselling is concerned with assessing the genetic risk, inherited conditions, and also providing emotional support to families. Prominent subjects included in the Post Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling are Human Genetics, Principles of Genetic Counselling, and Psychological Aspects of Counselling.

This Story also Contains
  1. Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Eligibility Criteria
  2. Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Admission Process
  3. Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Subject/Syllabus
  4. Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Fees Structure
  5. Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Scope
  6. Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Career Options
  7. Benefits of Studying a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling
  8. Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling: Expected Salary
  9. Top Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Colleges in India

To be eligible for the Post Graduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling, students must have completed their bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as Genetics or biotechnology. They must also achieve a valid aggregate score of 50-60 per cent. For those belonging to the reserved categories, there will be some relaxation of 5-10 per cent.

After completing the course, students can explore various career opportunities such as Genetic Counsellor, Genetic Testing Coordinator, and Assistant Clinical Coordinator. The average salary of a Genetic Counselling Researcher is Rs. 4.7 LPA, depending on the skills and experience of the graduate.

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Highlights

Particulars

Values

Degree Name

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling

Degree Type

Postgraduate Diploma

Degree Duration

One year

Entrance Exams

Conducted by concerned colleges (Common Entrance Test)

Eligibility Criteria

Bachelor's de­gree in gene­tics or related, MCI certificate

Admission Process

Entrance Exams

Average Fees

Rs. 70,000

Job Profiles

Genetic Counsellor, Genetic Testing Coordinator, Assistant Clinical Geneticist

Top Recruiters

Hospitals, Clinics, Academic Spaces, And Medical Labs

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Eligibility Criteria

Fulfilling the specific eligibility criteria is essential for admission. It is generally specified on both the official website and the programme brochure. Discussed below is the eligibility requirements for the Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling.

Eligibility RequirementsValues
Educational QualificationCandidates must have a Bachelor's degree in gene­tics, biology, or psychology.
Minimum aggregate score50-60 per cent aggregate score, 5-10 per cent relaxation for candidates belonging to the reserved categories

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Admission Process

When applying for a Postgraduate­ Diploma in Genetic Counselling, candidate­s must typically submit an application comprising important documents. These documents include an application form, academic transcripts, letters of re­commendation, a statement of inte­nt, and in some cases a resume­. Fulfilling admission prerequisites and exhibiting a since­re enthusiasm for gene­tic counselling are fundamental for admission de­liberation.

  • The candidates have to first complete their undergraduate in B.Tech or have a bachelor's degree in medicine and related fields

  • Then they can submit an application to their desired college along with several important documents

  • These documents are - identity proof, address proof, class 10th and 12th mark sheets, undergrad mark sheets, relevant internship experience, registration with the Medical Council/State Council of India, and experience certificate.

  • Afterwards, a shortlisting exam is conducted by the concerned colleges. Students passing this test get an opportunity to give an interview.

  • After qualifying for the interview, candidates are given a final call for admission.

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Subject/Syllabus

The syllabus for a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling typically covers a range of subjects to provide comprehensive training in genetics, counselling, and related areas. It equips genetic counsellors with the knowledge and skills necessary to practise effectively in various healthcare settings.

Semester 1

Basic Concepts in Genetics

Human Molecular Genetics

Cancer Genetics

Genetic Counselling: Process, Ethics and Laws

Lab-1 Pedigree Analysis and Biochemical Testing

Lab-2 Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics

Seminars related to theory papers


Semester 2

Analytical Techniques in Genetics

Clinical Genetics

Log Book Maintenance

Clinical attachment in a Hospital (related to genetic disorders, IVF, Special school, oncology, thalassemia)

Seminar presentation related to Clinical attachment

Seminar presentation related to Skill development

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Fees Structure

The fee structure for a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling in India varies among institutions. On average, tuition fees for such programmes in India can be Rs. 70,000 or more for the entire duration of the programme. Additional expenses may include registration fees, examination fees, laboratory charges, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and loans may be available for eligible students. Prospective applicants should consult the specific institutions offering the program for accurate fee information.

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Scope

Students having a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling have various career options. After graduating with a law candidates to work in hospitals, clinics, research facilities, and public health agencies. With the rising de­mand for personalised healthcare­ and genetic scree­ning, the domain provides prospects for progre­ssion and niche expertise­. What is more, innovations in genomic investigation continuously broade­n the reach of gene­tic counselling within medicine.

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Career Options

Those who e­arn a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counse­lling have various career route­s available to them. These­ career paths underscore­ the adaptability and influence of obtaining a Postgraduate­ Diploma in Genetic Counselling across me­dical care, investigation, tutoring, and social insurance divisions.

  • Genetic Counsellor: A Genetic Counsellor helps patients who have genetic problems. He/She provides them with necessary data, teaching them the relevant themes, and encouraging them to make the right decisions.

  • Clinical Assistant Geneticist: A clinical assistant geneticist provides the aid of certified geneticists and runs assessments on patients. He/She arranges for tests and helps patients undergo counselling in medical facilities.

  • Geneticists: The genetic testing coordinator is responsible for the quality of laboratory processes. He/She provides education to patients, collects samples, and communicates results in compliance with privacy standards.

  • Academic Contributor: Academic Contributor works as a research assistant, conducting genetic studies that increase our knowledge of the field. It provides the opportunity to be involved in the exploitation of biotechnological practices in academia or pharmaceuticals.

  • Health Promotion Experts: Health Promotion Expert designs genetic screening programs, policies, and educational campaigns. These should be geared towards health improvement and the reduction of diverse population health risks.

  • Biotechnology Collaborator: Biotechnology Collaborator collaborates with the biotech and pharma industries to generate new outcomes and promote their use in healthcare.

Top Recruiters:

  • Apollo Hospitals
  • Metropolis Health Centre
  • Government health departments
  • Fortis Hospital
  • All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
  • Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER)
  • Apollo Hospitals
  • Fortis Healthcare

Benefits of Studying a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling

One major advantage of Postgraduate studies in genetic counselling is that it broadens the number of opportunities in the area of genetic counselling. It also presents genetic counselling’s highly specialised knowledge in both genetics and counselling, so that people who have that knowledge can give satisfactory counsel regarding genetic concerns. Because of the experience, the possibilities of successful careers in healthcare, research, and education increase.

Besides, the programme helps in professional development by refining the fundamental abilities that include communication, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making, which boosts healthcare staff effectiveness. In addition, genetic counselling is what propels the healthcare industry forward by undertaking personalised medicine, genomic studies, and public health projects.

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling: Expected Salary

The expected salary for individuals with a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling can vary based on factors such as location, experience, employer, and specific job role. However, in general, genetic counsellors typically earn competitive salaries commensurate with their specialised training and expertise.

Career Options

Average Expected Salary

Genetic Counsellor

Rs. 4 LPA

Clinical Geneticist Assistant

Rs. 22 LPA

Academic Contributor

Rs. 4.5 LPA

Genetic Testing Coordinator

Rs. 4.7 LPA

Health Promotion Expert

Rs. 6.6 LPA

Biotechnology Collaborator

Rs. 8.2 LPA

Source: Ambitionbox and Glassdoor

The salary figures mentioned anywhere in these articles are just for reference purposes. Please treat them as such. Actual salaries may vary depending on the respective candidates, the employer, job location, and numerous other factors.

Top Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling Colleges in India

In India, the specialised counselling services offered at the postgraduate level for Genetic Counselling are still in the developing stages, having limited institutions that offer these services. Although some institutions are credited for their expertise in genetics and its related fields offer postgraduate diplomas in genetic counselling or other courses.


Pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling is a career choice that will lead you to play a major role in making the lives of individuals and families with genetic health risks healthier and happier. This specific training is necessary because, with the knowledge and tools it gives you, you will be able to provide empathy and guidance when you work in the genetic field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Genetic Counselling?

Genetic counselling is a counselling process that includes educating individuals and their families who have or are at risk of genetic disorders. It helps them determine the genetic risks they have, decide if the testing is needed, and how to manage a medical state.

2. What is a PGD Genetic Counselling?

The Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling is a highly advanced training programme that equips students with the expertise they need to work in the field of genetic counselling. Usually, it requires the study of areas such as genetics, counselling techniques, clinical practice, and ethical considerations as well as placements under supervision.

3. What are the Criteria for the Programme?

Criteria of eligibility are not the same between institutions yet generally include a bachelor's degree in the field of genetics, biology, psychology, or a related discipline of medicine. Some programs could also demand relevant working or research experience and good communication skills.

4. What job vacancies are open after the program has been fulfilled?

Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, research organisations, or public health organisations having expertise in genetic counselling. They can advise or assist clinical geneticists, act as a research associate, work as an educator, or serve as a liaison in an industry.

5. How many months does the Program last?

Postgraduate Diploma in Genetic Counselling is two years and one year of full-time study duration. Part-time programmes may be available in some places.

6. What Competencies Do Counsellors Need to Possess?

Some of the key skills are: communication, empathy, critical thinking, ethical awareness, cultural competence, teamwork, adaptability, planning, and self-awareness.

7. What is the extent of genetic counselling services?

The scope is wide and shall grow with increasing demand for genetic counsellors due to the advances in genetics, personalised medicine, and genetic testing technologies.

8. How much salary will I receive after taking the programme?

Factors like where you work, your experience and your employer will also impact your salary. A genetic counsellor usually makes a good salary which is comparable to what is paid for the specialised education and expertise required.

9. In which Institution are Post Graduate Diploma Programs available for Genetic Counselling?

Universities or colleges with excellent genetics or health units could be the ones who initiated such programmes. Examples, such as Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Christian Medical College Vellore, and All India Institute of Medical Sciences, are many.

10. How Can I Use the Programme Application?

Application processes differ in terms of what is required among institutions, however, often it involves submitting an application form together with academic transcripts, a list of recommendations, a personal statement of purpose, and your resume. In addition, some programs may also ask candidates to interview or take entrance exams.

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