Cytotechnology

Description of the Profession

Cytotechnologists are medical laboratory specialists who assist with the detection and diagnosis of disease using samples drawn from various human body sites. They prepare slides and microscopically examine them for abnormalities of all types, including cancerous and precancerous cells. They also search for microbial causative agents for inflammatory diseases and abnormalities that indicate other disease processes. The prime objective of a cytotechnologist is to detect cancer early, when the best chance for a cure exists.

Skills and Characteristics Important to this Profession

They potential cytotechnologist desires a career in science and a significant role in health care. Cytotechs are observant, responsible, caring professionals who work independently and are also good team players. They do meticulous microscopic work and must be comfortable making decisions and assuming a great deal of responsibility.

Description of the Indiana University Cytotechnology Program

The Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (Indianapolis) offers a program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Cytotechnology. The course of study requires the applicant to complete three years of prerequisite work equaling 90 credit hours at Indiana University in Bloomington (or another campus or college) and one year of professional and clinical work at the Indiana University Medical Center in Indianapolis.

Other Accredited Programs

For lists of accredited clinical lab science programs, see the American Society of Cytotechnology.

Additional Notes and Recommendations

Cytotechnologists have an ability to distinguish subtle gradations of size, shape and color. Art courses, especially those related to drawing, painting, two-dimensional design and photography, are helpful in developing these skills.

Job Shadowing / Observation

Job shadowing and observation is the best way for you to get a first hand look at a given profession and determine whether or not it is one you wish to look into further. HPPLC advisors strongly encourage you to take advantage of any such opportunities that arise during high school; or, if you are already in college, to arrange shadowing / observation as soon as possible. Refer to the PDF document below for further information.

Further Information

Refer to the HPPLC Cytotechnology handout for more detailed information about prerequisite courses, application and admission information, and for additional resources.

Additional resources: American Society of Cytopathology and the American Society for Cytotechnology.

If you are interested in other health professions that are advised through HPPLC, we encourage you to sign up for the HPPLC email list associated with your program(s) of interest. Feel free to sign up for more than one list. Also refer to the HPPLC handout, Health Professions Descriptions.