This is an introduction to counselling skills for genomics. The aim of this module is to equip students with the knowledge, communication and counselling skills and appropriate attitudes and behaviours towards the diagnosis and management of patients whose care will be influenced by genomic investigations. Students undertaking this module are taught how to communicate and provide appropriate support to individuals and their families. Development of counselling skills is achieved via theoretical and practical sessions. Students are taught to understand the importance of a family history and communication of pathogenic and/or uncertain results. Patient involvement is an integral feature of this module. The patient perspective will also be considered extensively within the role play delivery.
For information on other modules, go to the Cambridge Genomic Medicine Programme: modular study.
Course Dates
Course details
Academic team
Course information
All genomic medicine modules run as one week, in-person teaching sessions (>30 contact hours), followed by a further 4 weeks of guided study using a Virtual Learning Environment.
This module is taught at FHEQ Level 7 and is for CPPD only. Students do not complete an assessment and there is no credit awarded, however you’ll receive a certificate of attendance.
Should you decide that you would like to study the module for credit, either during the module or at a later date, you’ll have to repeat the module again and pay the relevant module/course fee. You would also need to submit a new application and meet the entry requirements. Likewise, if you select this module as part of the Postgraduate Certificate in Genomic Medicine, Postgraduate Diploma in Genomic Medicine or MSt in Genomic Medicine, you’ll need to repeat the teaching before submitting the assignment.
For details of the ‘for credit’ module, see Introduction to counselling and communication skills in genomic medicine (for credit).
We welcome applications from students with a variety of backgrounds and professional experiences. As part of our admissions process, you’ll need to make sure you’re able to attend teaching sessions in the UK.
Academic experience
There are no formal academic entry requirements for this course. Given the postgraduate level of the course and subject matter, we recommend that applicants hold a good UK undergraduate degree, such as a 2.1, or international equivalent.
Teaching in English
To get the most from this course, you’ll need to be confident in understanding and communicating in English at postgraduate level. While we do not require proof, if English is not your first language, we recommend a near-native level of fluency. For more information, see Postgraduate and Master's admissions for the tests and scores we require for our award-bearing postgraduate courses.
Visa information
We welcome applications from international students. If you’re coming from overseas, you would attend the in-person teaching sessions for this course with visitor immigration permission.
It's important to be aware that entering the UK as a visitor for study purposes comes with certain expectations and restrictions that may limit the number of modules you can take in one year. To make sure you understand the requirements, we advise you to read the in-depth information on the University’s International Students website.
Fees
The total fees for this course are shown above in 'Course details'.
To understand which fee status applies to you, whether as a home or overseas student, visit the University’s fee status page.
See how to pay for more information on paying for your course.
You’ll need to cover any travel, accommodation and subsistence costs for the teaching sessions held in Cambridge.
Funding
We're dedicated to reducing and removing financial barriers to learning. Visit financial support ahead of the application deadline to find out what options may be available to help you in your studies. You can explore funding and stay up to date on our concessions and bursaries.
NHSE funding is not available for CPPD study. If you wish to apply for NHSE funding, you should apply for a place on the 'for credit' course, Introduction to counselling and communication skills in genomic medicine (for credit).
Considering applying? We look forward to receiving your application.
The application deadline is 29 January 2027.
How to apply and what you'll need
Click ‘Apply now’ and follow the instructions on our PACE student portal. There, you can:
- create, save, and submit your application
- upload your supporting documents
- track your application
Supporting documents
When you submit your application, you’ll need to provide supporting information.
CV
Upload an up-to-date resume.
Evidence of funding, if applicable
Upload details for any funding you have secured for this course.
We're committed to supporting you in your learning journey, and we offer a variety of support opportunities to meet individual needs. Visit student support to find out more about how we can help.
