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Cytotechnology

Overview

Cytotechnology programs prepare people to do lab tests on cells under the supervision of a pathologist. These programs are sometimes called histotechnology.

Cytotechnology programs include topics such as:

Schools

A few community colleges and two-year schools offer associate degree programs in cytotechnology. An associate degree program usually takes two years of full-time study.

Some colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in cytotechnology. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

See schools that offer this program.

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Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

Proprietary schools, colleges, and universities all offer this program. If you want to study at a proprietary school, you can prepare for this program of study by completing your high school diploma or getting a GED. If you want to study at a college or university, you can prepare for this program by taking the following courses: four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

A personal interview may be required.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate and post-baccalaureate certificate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology or clinical sciences. Your grades should be good, especially your overall biological sciences GPA.

In some cases, program admission requirements may include:

You should complete the following college-level courses before applying:

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Most bachelor's degree programs are split into pre-professional and professional curriculums. The fourth year of the program is usually devoted to the professional course work, shown above. You typically spend the first three years taking basic sciences and general education. These courses usually include:

Almost all programs include a practicum or clinical rotation in their curriculum. These practicums are valuable hands-on opportunities to use and sharpen your knowledge and skills in real-world cytological settings.

Things to Know

Some programs prefer applicants with previous experience in the health field, especially in laboratory work.

Schools

Tacoma Area

Clover Park Technical College