The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center School of Health Sciences has designed a program to prepare the student for a challenging and exciting career as a cytotechnologist.

A Career as a Cytotechnologist

Cytotechnology is an allied health specialty that offers exciting possibilities for those who want a career in science and a significant role in health care.

Professional Workplace

While most cytotechnologists work in hospital/private cytopathology laboratories, some opt to join research laboratories where they perform image analysis, fluorescent in situ hybridization or other new diagnostic technologies. Those interested in computer technology use their laboratory knowledge and skills in the management of laboratory information systems. A few with the aptitude in teaching are employed as educators.

Objectives

Please see the Health Sciences Student Catalog for:

• A review of the objectives of the M. D. Anderson Program in Cytotechnology
• More information about careers in cytotechnology

Salary

According to the salary survey conducted by the Department of Academic Affairs at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, the average starting salary for a staff cytotechnologist is $45,000 to $53,000. The salary for a senior cytotechnologist ranges from $47,000 to $64,000.

Description of the Cytotechnology Program

The Program in Cytotechnology is a 12-month course accredited by CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) conforming to the standards published and monitored by the American Society of Cytopathology. Note: Pages will open in a new browser window.

The year of study consists of lectures and demonstrations in a tutored setting for learning the morphology of normal, precancerous, and cancerous cells from all body sites.

Curriculum

The Program includes the following topics:

• Introduction to Cytotechnology
• Theory and Practice of Cytopreparatory Techniques I and II
• Gynecologic Cytopathology
• Non-Gynecologic Exfoliative Cytopathology
• Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology
• Laboratory Operations
• Diagnostic Laboratory
• Special Studies
• Clinical Internship

Upon successful completion of the Program the student will be awarded a Degree/Certificate of Completion and will be eligible to take the national certification exams given by the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

Please see the Health Sciences Student Catalog for more information about the curriculum and course descriptions.

Why M. D. Anderson?

In a recent nationwide survey published in U.S. News and World Report, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center was named number one in the nation in cancer care. One of the models for federally designated comprehensive cancer centers, this 514-bed hospital is internationally recognized for its exceptional strength in patient care, research, and educational programs. As one of the world's largest cancer centers, M. D. Anderson offers students the opportunity to examine a diverse patient population and diagnose all types of cancers.

The Cytotechnology Faculty Team

M. D. Anderson's reputation attracts experts in all fields to the institution; therefore, the faculty members possess an unparalleled level of knowledge and technical expertise.

The Department of Cytopathology includes world-renowned specialists in cytology of breast, lymphoma, bone, soft tissue, liver and pancreas. Our faculty have pioneered research in image analysis, fluorescent in situ hybridization, detection of estrogen receptors and oncogenes in breast cancer.

The cytotechnologists who train students are well experienced and technologically up to date. Furthermore, students benefit from the individual guidance faculty members can provide, as instruction is primarily delivered on a one-to-one basis.

Administrators

The Program in Cytotechnology is administered by:

Roster of Faculty

A current roster of Cytotechnology faculty is published in the Health Sciences Student Catalog.

Admission & Application

Resources

Cytotechnology

Visit the sites below for more information about a career in cytotechnology.

• American Society of Cytopathology (ASC) (http://www.cytopathology.org/)
• American Society for Cytotechnology (ASCT) (http://www.asct.com/)
• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) (http://www.ascp.org/index.asp)

Houston

Visit the sites below for more information about the Houston area.

• City of Houston (http://www.cityofhouston.gov/)
• Welcome to Houston (http://www.houston-guide.com/)
• About Houston (http://www.uh.edu/houston/)
• Houston Chronicle (http://www.chron.com/)

Top of Page

Degree & Certificate Programs