STORRS, Conn. (AP) – The University of Connecticut is planning a new graduate program designed to prepare students to become genetic counselors.

The program is being funded by a grant of more than $300,000 from the University. The first class is expected to enter in the fall of 2018.

A genetic counselor interprets the results of a genetic test and advises patients about potential health risks and ways to mitigate those risks.

UConn officials say doctors often don’t have the training needed to determine whether having a gene will lead to disease or cause death.

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