Histology technicians work in a variety of laboratory settings.
Histology technicians, also referred to as histotechnicians, perform a range of laboratory tests that are critical in the detection and diagnosis of medical conditions and diseases. These allied health professionals perform complex microscopic studies on human tissue samples in a variety of settings, including medical clinics, hospitals, forensic laboratories and industrial research facilities. A two-year associate degree is the general requirement to gain employment as a histology technician in the United States.
Degree Options
To become a histology technician, a two-year associate degree in science with a major in histology technology is required. A number of community colleges across the United States offer training programs in histology technology. The Community College of Rhode Island, in Providence, Rhode Island; Darton College, in Albany, Georgia; Pima Community College, in Tucson, Arizona; Houston Community College in Texas; Keiser University of Florida; and Mott Community College, of Flint, Michigan, all offer associate of science degree programs in histotechnology or histologic science.
Degree Requirements
A histology technician degree typically combines both theoretical and practical experience in histology and laboratory testing. Prerequisite coursework is typically required in the first two semesters of a histotechnology program. This includes general education courses in the liberal arts, humanities and social science in addition to a particular combination of foundational coursework in biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, mathematics and microbiology. Upper-level coursework topics generally include histology, medical terminology, histology laboratory techniques and clinical training in a professional setting. Should a graduate wish to upgrade credentials, the credits from these programs may be transferred toward a four-year bachelor’s degree at a university or college.
Considerations
Histology technicians frequently work in a demanding atmosphere under strict deadlines. They must also be able to work with fragile equipment such as small tools, knives and delicate glass slides. In addition to educational requirements, prospective histology technicians should have excellent dexterity and the ability to work efficiently and effectively both independently and as part of a larger team of medical professionals.
Certification
Most employers look for candidates who are certified by a professional association in addition to meeting educational requirements. Some associations offering recognized certification are the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel and the American Association of Bioanalysts.
Potential
In most clinical and laboratory settings, histology technicians can advance to supervisory positions. With additional experience and education, histology technicians may also transfer their knowledge and skills to a teaching career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of clinical laboratory technologists, including histology technicians, is projected to increase by 14 percent through 2018. Median income for clinical laboratory technologists ranged from $44,560 to $63,420 in May 2008, with the highest 10 percent earning over $74,680 a year, the BLS reported.
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