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Certificate Course in Genetic Counseling

A 7-month, case-based training program that takes you from the fundamentals of genetic counseling to supervised practice with real patients — led by Dr. Dnyandeo Chopade and GHRC's medical genetics faculty.

Next cohort starts

22 December 2026

Registration closes 20 November 2026 · Seats limited

Register for CCGC 2026.2
Attend a free introduction session

Next session: 29 September 2026, 6:00 PM onwards · Online · Fill the form above to join

Duration
7 months
Format
Live ONLINE every Tuesday
Commitment
~14 hrs / week
Fee
₹60,000 + GST

What this course is about

Genetic counseling is the process of advising individuals and families affected by, or at risk of, genetic disorders by helping them understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic conditions.

  • Online lectures and discourse covering every aspect of genetic counseling practice.
  • Delivery by experienced medical geneticists and technical experts with a cumulative 50+ years in teaching, practice and research.
  • Practical sessions on how counseling is practiced at GHRC's government-approved facilities.

What you'll learn

  • Genetic health assessment, including taking a genetic history
  • Pedigree charting and analysis
  • Clinical examination
  • Risk assessment and determining testing options
  • Analysis of health records
  • Pre-test and post-test genetic counseling
  • Karyotype analysis
  • Powerful and effective communication techniques
  • Counseling across common clinical settings and empowering patients

How the course works

ComponentWhat it involves
Live sessionsEvery Tuesday, 7:00–9:00 PM IST
ReadingRegular topic reading from the recommended book list
LogbookA running record of cases, learnings and practical exposure
ProjectOne independent project in any area of medical genetics
PresentationsPractical case presentations and topic-based presentations during the course
Journal readingStudying and presenting salient points from publications in indexed medical genetics journals
Examination2 internal part-completion examinations plus a final theory & practical examination

Who should apply

Any professional interested in providing genetic counseling within their clinical practice is eligible. Eligible qualifications include:

  • MBBS, MD or DNB — Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Pathology, Anatomy, Physiology or Biochemistry
  • MSc in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Zoology or Biology
  • IVF specialists
  • Genetic counsellors and trainees

Course timeline

  • 22 DEC 2026Course begins
  • 9 MAR 2027Part completion examination I
  • 4 MAY 2027Part completion examination II
  • 30 JUN 2027Logbook and pending assignments due
  • 10 JUL 2027Final examination
  • 17 JUL 2027Result declaration & online convocation

Hear from our alumni

From Genetic Knowledge to Patient-Centred Counselling

CCMG was an invisibly transformative journey of learning and remodelling. Before the programme, I was an obstetrician-gynaecologist with knowledge of genetics; today, I see myself as a genetic counsellor. The biggest change has been in the way I counsel patients. My pre- and post-test counselling is now more structured, patient-centred and non-judgmental, with greater attention to communication and understanding the patient’s world. The experiential workshop, particularly seeing families happily raising children with Trisomy 21, profoundly changed my perspective. In practice, I no longer impose rigid time limits on counselling, encourage two-way conversations and give patients more space to express themselves. CCMG has influenced me professionally as well as personally. I am now committed to providing reliable genetic counselling and testing services and to taking these skills forward into my clinical practice.

Dr Janane Elangovan
DGO, DNB, Fellow in Genetic Diagnostics

From Giving Directions to Helping Patients Make Informed Choices

One of the most important changes CCMG brought to me was a shift from being directive to becoming more non-directive and learning to see situations from the patient’s perspective. The programme’s holistic approach helped me rethink how genetic counselling should actually be practised. Every session added to my learning, even though the initial phase was demanding. I now want to build on this foundation through research and greater clinical exposure alongside genetic counsellors and geneticists. I believe supervised hands-on experience with real patients would further strengthen this learning. I have already recommended CCMG to friends, and two joined the programme with me. The change I see in myself is simple but significant: before CCMG, I was directive; today, I am non-directive. I am committed to using what I have learnt to serve people in ways that genuinely add quality to their lives.

Dr Sarah Ramamurthy
MD (Anatomy), Professor, AIIMS, Madurai

Becoming a Better Listener and a Better Clinician

I came to CCMG expecting to gain knowledge and certification in genetics, but the programme gave me something much broader. I learnt how to engage with patients and families, understand what they really need and communicate information more effectively. Most importantly, I learnt to listen. Earlier, I tended to provide information without listening enough; now, I first try to understand the person’s needs and then provide information that is appropriate for them. For me, the most valuable part of CCMG was learning how we interact with and empower patients and families. The coaching experience was valuable and life-changing, and the programme contributed not only to my technical knowledge but also to my development as a person. I leave CCMG more aware of how I practise, more committed to improving my skills, and determined to continue growing both professionally and personally.

Dr Mangesh Bolegave
MD (Path), Consultant Pathologist, Pune

From Avoiding Genetic Counselling to Starting a Nephro-Genetics Clinic

As a pediatric nephrologist, I regularly encounter children with cystic kidney diseases, renal tubular disorders and inherited chronic kidney diseases. CCMG strengthened my understanding of their genetic basis, but its greatest impact was on something equally important — how I counsel families. The programme made me a better listener and a more compassionate clinician. Genetic counselling and active listening became the most rewarding parts of my learning, and I have now started counselling patients, something I had previously avoided. That change has given me the confidence to take the learning further. I now plan to establish a dedicated Pediatric Nephro-Genetics Clinic, where children with inherited kidney disorders can receive more comprehensive care. CCMG reinforced for me that competence in genetics is not simply about understanding genes and tests; it is also about how we listen, communicate and support patients and their families.

Dr. Subal Pradhan
MD (Pediatrics), Fellowship in Ped Nephrology, Consultant Pediatric Nephrologist, Cuttack

CCMG took me beyond theoretical knowledge and made me think about how genetics can actually be applied in the real world. It has strengthened me as a medical teacher, encouraged me to undertake research in genetics and contributed to genetics-related academic work. The guidance of my coach and the encouragement of my mentor were especially valuable. I now hope to explore genetic counselling in an IVF setting and would value continued clinical case discussions and practical exposure.

Dr Mili Jain
MSc, PhD (Medical Biochemistry), Jodhpur, Rajasthan

CCMG helped me fill important gaps in my understanding of medical genetics and made me more confident in both clinical and counselling skills. Cytogenetics, ART, neurogenetics, reproductive genetics, genetic-test selection and interpretation, and ethics were particularly valuable. Before the programme, I considered myself an evolving genetic counsellor; today, I feel evolved and committed to using these skills in the service of people.

Gc Soham Banerjee
MSc (Genetics), PGDC (Medical Genetics and Genetic Counseling), Asansol, West Bengal

CCMG exceeded my expectations. I am now more confident in recognising genetic disorders, selecting and interpreting appropriate tests, communicating results to families, and understanding the ethical and psychosocial dimensions of genetics. I intend to integrate genetic counselling into clinical care and teaching, promote cascade screening and work towards establishing genetic counselling services in my institution.

Dr Anjali Kulkarni
MD (Pathology), Professor, Govt Medical College, Sambhajinagar

CCMG transformed my basic knowledge of genetics into greater confidence in clinical application. Case discussions and observing genetic counselling strengthened my clinical reasoning and taught me how complex genetic reports can be communicated to patients in simple language. I now feel better equipped for genetic-test interpretation, basic counselling, teaching and research, and I am committed to continuing my learning and promoting genetic awareness.

Dr Prajkta Thete
MD (Anat), Professor, Govt Medical College, Sindhudurg

CCMG made me more humble, curious and committed to continuous learning. I now counsel patients more actively, listen more deliberately, use pedigree charting and think more systematically about selecting genetic tests. The programme taught me to approach genetic findings with acceptance and sensitivity rather than judgment. I entered uncertain of my direction; today, I am a more focused learner committed to compassionate counselling and genuine competence in Medical Genetics.

Dr. Anirban Das Gupta
MD (Anat), Professor, AIIMS, Kalyani

CCMG was a satisfying and empowering experience that gave me much greater clarity and confidence in genetics. Most importantly, understanding the principles of genetic counselling changed my perspective: I am less judgmental, and my approach to patients, particularly families making reproductive decisions — has changed phenomenally. Before CCMG, I was learning; today, I am learning with a difference and committed to making a difference.

Dr Jigna Tamagoond
MS (Obstetrics and Gynecology), FRM, Oasis Fertility, Karimnagar

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Frequently asked questions

What are the minimum legal requirements to practise as a genetic counsellor in India?+

No organisation is affiliated with the Government of India or any statutory regulatory agency for regulating the practice of genetics, and accreditation from such a body is not legally mandatory. Practice is governed by the PCPNDT Act, 1994, and requires PCPNDT registration with the local competent authority. Under the Act, a Genetic Counselling Centre, Genetic Laboratory, Genetic Clinic, Ultrasound Clinic or Imaging Centre may employ a gynaecologist or paediatrician with six months' experience or four weeks' training in genetic counselling, or a medical geneticist — someone holding a degree or diploma in genetic science relevant to sex-selection and pre-natal diagnostic techniques, or with at least two years' experience in the field after a recognised medical qualification or a postgraduate degree in biological sciences.

Is the course theoretical or practical?+

It is strongly case-based and application-oriented. You will analyse real clinical scenarios, interpret genetic reports and practice counselling approaches.

What's the actual weekly time commitment?+

A live session of 2 hours every Tuesday, plus roughly 12 hours a week on assignments — about 14 hours a week in total.

Are sessions live, or can I watch a recording?+

Sessions are live and interactive. Recordings may be provided only if informed in advance, for no more than 5 sessions across the whole program.

What happens if I miss a session?+

You can refer to a recording where one is available, but repeated absence will affect your performance. You're responsible for keeping up with assignments regardless.

How is my work evaluated?+

Assignments are reviewed regularly and designed to test clinical reasoning, not memorisation. You'll receive feedback throughout to help you improve.

What is the logbook?+

A structured record of case discussions, learning reflections and practical exposure. Keeping it updated is mandatory for course completion.

Is there a certification at the end of the course?+

Yes. A certificate is awarded on successful completion of all assignments, submission of the logbook, and passing the final examination.

Will this course help my career?+

Yes, it builds strong clinical competence in genetics and improves your ability to interpret tests and counsel patients. It does not guarantee jobs or placements.

Do I need prior knowledge of genetics?+

A basic understanding is expected. You'll receive a pre-course reading list and foundational topics to revise before the course begins.

Can I join after the course has started?+

No. Late entry isn't allowed, because the course builds sequentially and you'd miss foundational sessions.

Is this course recognised by a university?+

This is a certificate program, not a university degree. Its value lies in clinical training, skill development and practical exposure.

Can international students apply?+

Yes, provided you can attend live sessions at the scheduled time in Indian Standard Time (IST) and participate regularly.

What's the refund policy?+

No refund of the course fee is provided once you have registered.

Is the introduction session mandatory?+

No, but it's highly recommended. It helps you understand the course's expectations and workload, and whether it's the right fit, before you commit.