Cytotechnology

Cytotechnology is an allied health profession that specializes in the microscopic evaluation of cell samples from all body sites under a microscope in order to detect minute changes in cells. The field of Cytotechnology is highly specialized and practiced by pathologists and cytotechnologists. A Cytotechnologist is a very responsible and skilled healthcare professional who uses a microscope to examine cell samples looking for pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions, infectious organisms, and other diseases by detecting and reporting early signs of cancer, therefore leading to effective treatment which save lives. Cytotechnologists work independently with little supervision.

The purpose of the Cytotechnology Program is to provide Biology majors with another option in the healthcare field. Students are introduced to the field of Cytotechnology with emphasis on its definition and its role in healthcare management. Students are taught the anatomy, histology and then cytology of each body site. Emphasis is placed on accurately diagnosing normal cells by using the criteria learned in the classroom, lab, and finally integrating the two into the clinical setting.

The Cytotechnology Program is a 3 + 1 program. The first three years of the curriculum are spent taking core courses required of all students at AUM and upper level biology courses in preparation for entry into the program. Once accepted into the program, the senior year professional phase courses concentrate on Cytotechnology.

Upon completion of this program, students earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology and/or a certificate of completion of an accredited Cytotechnology Program. Graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examination in Cytotechnology. Graduates readily find jobs in hospitals, private labs, research, and education.

There is currently a steadily worsening shortage of qualified Cytotechnologists. If you enjoy mysteries and you are interested in a challenging medical career, Cytotechnology could be the field for you. Armed with a microscope and a mystery solving mind, you could be the Nancy Drew or Sherlock Holmes of the Cytology field. Join the fight against cancer!!!!

Curriculum

Student Handbook 2009

Cytotechnology Admission Application

Accrediting Agency