Lindsey Alico

The Advanced Human Genetics course provides students with a foundation in human genetics in preparation for their clinical training and other coursework in the genetic counseling program. The Advanced Human Genetics course is organized into lectures, self-study activities, and team-based learning. The team-based learning and other student-driven activities enable students to apply in a clinically relevant way information presented in the lectures and readings.

The Cancer Genetics course provides students with an understanding of cancer genetic counseling through case-based study of clinical services. Students are introduced to the anatomy and physiology of affected organs, screening modalities and treatment options; become familiar with the pathology and cancer genetic counseling; interpret pedigrees and utilize cancer risk models; understand testing criterion, options and interpretation of results; and explore the psychosocial aspects of hereditary cancer syndromes.

The Case Management Practicum utilizes a standardized patient model to provide students the opportunity to demonstrate and assess their skill levels in competencies necessary for the practice of genetic counseling. Students participate in prepared role-playing exercises, followed by class discussion and feedback. The course structure allows students to demonstrate competence in key skills; assess their own strengths and weaknesses and those of their peers; and formulate a plan for addressing areas needing improvement.

The Medical Genetics Seminar courses introduce students to topics relevant to clinical genetic counseling. Students learn from and interact with experts in their respective fields, gaining an in-depth understanding of fundamental genetic conditions and syndromes as well as current counseling issues and practices. Students will apply their new understanding by utilizing team-based learning activities and case discussions.

The Advanced Human Genetics course provides students with a foundation in human genetics in preparation for their clinical training and other coursework in the genetic counseling program. The Advanced Human Genetics course is organized into lectures, self-study activities, team-based learning, and student presentations. The team-based learning and other student-driven activities enable students to apply in a clinically relevant way information presented in the lectures and readings.

The Cancer Genetics course provides students with an understanding of cancer genetic counseling through case-based study of clinical services. Students are introduced to the anatomy and physiology of affected organs, screening modalities and treatment options; become familiar with the pathology and cancer genetic counseling; interpret pedigrees and utilize cancer risk models; understand testing criterion, options and interpretation of results; and explore the psychosocial aspects of hereditary cancer syndromes.

The Case Management Practicum utilizes a standardized patient model to provide students the opportunity to demonstrate and assess their skill levels in competencies necessary for the practice of genetic counseling. Students participate in prepared role-playing exercises, followed by class discussion and feedback. The course structure allows students to demonstrate competence in key skills; assess their own strengths and weaknesses and those of their peers; and formulate a plan for addressing areas needing improvement.

The Clinical Genomics course builds upon topics covered in Advanced Human Genetics. Early, current, and future uses of genomic technologies are covered, especially as they apply to clinical care. Students develop critical thinking skills related to testing strategies and genomic data interpretation, with a focus on Whole Exome Sequencing variant interpretation. The course also explores the psychosocial, ethical, and legal factors associated with genomic testing. Students apply their learning to various case examples.

Fundamentals of Genetic Counseling aims to introduce students to the fundamental skills necessary for genetic counseling. The course is structured around key components of a genetic counseling encounter. Readings provide foundational knowledge of relevant concepts, and class discussions encourage the comparison of different perspectives and applications. Course instructors demonstrate each skill; students then engage in skill development through role play, peer feedback, and self-assessment.