> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-7/ms-in-genetic-counseling/program-requirements/requirements-to-graduate.md).

# Requirements to Graduate

All students will need to meet the following degree requirements in order to successfully earn the MSGC degree:

* Achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher for all required courses
* Complete the core curriculum
* Attain the minimum clinical competencies defined and documented by each clinical training area
* Complete a minimum of 50 participatory cases as required by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling
* Complete, present, and deposit an in-depth thesis project of a selected genetic counseling issue or topic

### Thesis Milestones 

#### Year 1

March 15st 

* Send a brief summary of proposed research to designated Program Leadership
* Designated program Leadership will provide feedback regarding feasibility and potential advisors 

March 31st

* Advisor(s) secured May 15th
* Complete first draft of proposal
* Include hypothesis, summary, background and proposed methodology
* Proposals will be reviewed by the guiding committee 

June 30th 

* Final Deadline to Submit project proposal to relevant regulatory bodies 

#### Year 2

Mid-March

* Presentation of Research to clinical faculty/staff/students April 15
* Final date for deposit\* of thesis for May graduation\*\* 

\*Deposit instructions can found on the [Graduate School Forms webpage](https://icahn.mssm.edu/education/students/registrar/graduate-forms). 

\*\* If a thesis project cannot be completed by April 15th students cannot receive their diploma in May. Students should discuss alternative deposit deadlines with Program leadership.