Genetic Counseling
BIOL-40359
Explore the Field of Genetic Counseling Online
This course provides an introduction to the growing field of genetic counseling and is taught by certified genetic counselors. It covers fundamental topics relevant to professional practice including general genetic principles, genetic testing, genetic specialties and genetic disorders; emerging technologies; risk assessment; inter-personal, psychosocial and communication skills; personalized medicine; and ethics. Students will test their knowledge using case studies representing a range of common areas of practice including pediatrics, prenatal care and family planning, general genetics, laboratory and research, and oncology. This course will introduce students to this exciting field and will give students interested in graduate school increased exposure to the profession.
Course Objectives:
- Gain introductory training that strengthens an understanding of the field of genetic counseling as a healthcare profession
- Learn the basic principles in genetics, counseling, and ethics
- Students will have exposure to practicing genetic counselors from both recorded lectures and live video conferencing
- Students will hear from guest speakers covering a various case studies
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites required for this course. However, a knowledge of basic concepts in molecular biology, human genetics, common inheritance patterns, and genetic testing technologies would support the learning provided within the course.
Course Format
Transferring for College Credit
Many UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies courses may transfer to other institutions for college credit. The receiving institution determines credit transfer. We recommend consulting with your intended institution's registrar's office before enrolling to confirm transfer eligibility.
Next Steps: For further learning, enroll in BIOL-40375 Genetic Counseling Assistant Training which is the second course in the Genetic Counseling Assistant program.
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
No textbook required.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 2/9/2026
Schedule:
Instructor:
Romela Pasion
Romela Pasion has been a Genetic counselor for over 22 years, graduating from the University of California at Berkeley in 1998. From there, she has worked in a variety of settings in diverse roles in clinical patient care – including prenatal, pediatric and adult genetics – industry laboratory genetic testing, and the insurance industry. Her clinical work shaped her drive to be a strong patient advocate when implementing and launching new genetic testing at GeneCare, LabCorp, and Mayo Clinic Laboratory.
Her previous diverse experiences in clinical care and genetic laboratories have been crucial in her current role as a Genetic Program manager at Blue Shield of California where she works as a genetics consultant for genetic claims, reviewing genetic medical policies, evaluating new genetic tests for medical necessity, and acting as a liaison between the insurance company and genetic laboratories. Romela has a passion for education and paving new pathways for genetic counselor roles in medicine and industry.