The curriculum provides knowledge of laboratory skills and techniques used in the histology laboratory. Included are hands-on experience during 10 weeks of externship in a histology laboratory. Candidates must hold a high school diploma or GED and have a good background in general sciences. The student is expected to successfully complete five, 10-week semesters of classroom training, learning various histologic techniques such as cutting staining, and embedding human tissues. Lab size is limited to 12 students due to availability of clinical sites and requirements of national accrediting agencies.
Career opportunities are varied for graduates.
Histotechnicians may work as entry level Laboratory Staff Technologist Lab Supervisors, Research Assistants, Teachers or Consultants in hospitals, schools of veterinary, research labs, private medical colleges and schools of dental medicine. Graduates eligible for placement may seek placement assistance through the student services office. Program is offered at the Main Campus in Pittsburgh.