Background
Genetic counselling is an emerging profession in the Nordic region, currently lacking standardized educational pathways. Globally – and especially in Europe – there is a significant shortage of trained genetic counsellors, with fewer than 150 professionals across the Nordic countries. This programme aims to address that gap by educating and preparing qualified genetic counsellors to meet increasing clinical and societal needs. By working together and building a lasting and expanding network, we can raise awareness of the field and develop training that meets the challenges of today.
Goals
We have two main goals: building a Nordic network and to establish a Joint Nordic Master’s Programme in Genetic and Genomic Counselling (MSc GC) adhering to European education requirements by the European Board of Medical Genetics (EBMG).
Impact
None of the Nordic countries currently offer a dedicated degree programme in genetic counselling. Through this joint master’s programme, we aim to establish a sustainable and unified educational pathway that addresses the shortcomings of previous country-specific pilot initiatives.
Funding
The project has received funding from the Nordplus High Education programme for network development, degree programme establishment, and piloting. The programme aligns with UN Agenda 2030 sustainability goals and Nordic Ministry priorities for sustainability, equity, and competitiveness.
Partners and co-operators
Every partner institutions bring complementary expertise in curriculum development, quality assurance, practical and healthcare ethics, innovative teaching methods, and clinical practice, each partner being responsible for their own courses. The programme integrates genetics, genomics, psychology, communication, ethics, and law, with clinical relevance ensured through supervised practice and peer learning at Nordic University Hospitals.
The programme will engage with stakeholders and policymakers in healthcare and industry, providing opportunities for Nordic citizens to learn and work across borders.
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Partner institutions:
Linköping University, Sweden
Uppsala University, Sweden
University of Bergen, Norway
Haukeland – Helse Bergen HF, Norway
Tampere University of Applied Sciences, Tampere
University of Copenhagen, Denmark
University of Iceland, Iceland
Co-operators:
Estonia