How to Become a Cytotechnologist

Cytotechnologists microscopically study cells for signs of disease. Individuals interested in specializing in this field can attend cytotechnology training or degree programs and then get work at hospitals or medical clinics. Eventually, those specialists in the field can also get cytotechnology certification to advance their careers in this important and exciting medical career field.

Specialized cytotechnology training programs typically last one year, but you can also major in cytotechnology at some colleges and universities. While certain institutions let you major in cytotechnology, others have major degree programs in clinical science or clinical laboratory science with an optional concentration in cytotechnology.

The training programs can even qualify you for the certification exam, but they are very competitive in some cases. For example, the Mayo Clinic has only about six spots for its one-year cytotechnology certificate program. Typically, what happens with these specialized programs is that you apply for and attend a regular baccalaureate course of study in college. You may then apply for some of these prestigious training programs. At any rate, it is not necessary to get accepted into such a program. Your normal cytotechnology or clinical laboratory science degree is generally enough to get your foot into the door as an entry-level cytotechnologist.

The American Society for Cytotechnology regularly posts cytotechnologist job openings on its website. You may also apply at hospitals, medical clinics and private laboratories in your area.

The American Society for Clinical Pathology provides certification for cytotechnologists. While it does not specifically require work experience as a cytotechnologist, you must have a bachelor’s degree in any field and completion of a cytotechnology program in the last 5 years. That training program must be accredited by the CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs). You may run search of accredited programs using the link below. As of the time of this writing, there are 31 such training programs for cytotechnologists.

Resources:

American Society for Cytotechnology: Job Posting Page

Universities.com Directory of Cytochnologist Educational Degree Programs

American Society for Clinical Pathology: Cytotechnology Certification Details


People also view

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *