CYTOTECHNOLOGIST


Cytotechnologists are health care professionals specially trained to microscopically examine cellular specimens in order to detect changes in body cells. Their work is important for detecting abnormalities or infections in body cells. Cytotechnologists work with pathologists to identify disease in early stages when treatment may be the most effective. Duties include preparing slides of cellular samples obtained from various body sites, examining cells under the microscope and differentiating between abnormal cells that may be disease-related and those that are normal.

Education

A minimum of two years of academic education in an accredited college or university is required along with one to two years of clinical education in a laboratory setting. This education results in a bachelors degree. College courses usually require 20 semester hours in biology, eight semester hours in chemistry and some courses in mathematics.

Registration/Certification/Licensure

Certification is achieved after completion of educational requirements from an accredited program and passing the American Society of Clinical Pathologist Registry Examination in Cytotechnology.

Salary

$33,000-60,000

Employment Opportunities

Work environments include hospitals, laboratories, research facilities and teaching.

Programs

Eastern Kentucky University, Clinical Lab Science Dept. 
(In conjunction with Pathology and Cytology Laboratories, Inc.)		 (859) 622-3078
Bellarime University, Cytotechnology Program  (800) 274-4723

 Professional Associations

American Society of Cytotechnology
4101 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27607
(919) 787-5181		 American Society of Cytopathology
400 W. 9th St. - Suite 201
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 429-8802

Last updated:  February 3, 2003