An Associate of Science degree is considered a terminal degree. The decision on course transferability rests with the receiving institution.
Associate of Science degree in Histotechnology prepares students to work as Histotechnicians in a variety of anatomic pathology laboratory settings. The Histotechnology program is designed to develop technical and intellectual skills as well as developing individuals with a commitment to quality patient care, a passion for the profession, and continued growth within the field. Students learn the core requirements of histotechnology including processing and embedding of surgically removed anatomic specimens and microtomy. Student will master routine and special staining techniques that make it possible to distinguish tissue components through microscopic examination.
Program Mission
The Histotechnology Program offers an Associate of Science Degree designed to facilitate the development of ethical, competent entry-level Histotechnicians. The Program emphasizes general histology disciplines, professional behaviors, technical skills training and life-long learning. Graduates are prepared to sit for the national certification examination administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology and are eligible to be licensed by the State of COL to practice Histology.
Program Objectives
To prepare competent entry-level graduates to enter the workforce as histotechnicians.
To provide training and experience in the preparation of microscopic, stained specimens for the diagnosis and prognosis of disease by a pathologist.
To develop a student’s abilities in critical thinking and documentation.
To train students to be qualified members of a healthcare team.
Program Goal Statement
Students will acquire the knowledge and skills required of entry level histotechnicians.
Students will develop effective verbal and written communication skills.
Students will gain problem solving skills through the application of critical thinking.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the importance of ongoing professional development.
Prerequisites for Major Courses
- Cumulative grade average of 2.5 on a scale of 4.0 for general education courses.
- Minimum grade of “C” for general education courses.
Program Outline
To receive an Associates of Science in Histotechnology, students must earn 67.0 credit hours. Program requirements are as follows:
| Histotechnology Major Courses ( 38.0 credit hours ) | |
| Introduction to Histology | 4.0 credit hours |
| Principles of Fixation | 4.0 credit hours |
| Cellular Biological Staining | 4.0 credit hours |
| Diagnostic Histology I | 4.0 credit hours |
| Immunohistochemical Staining | 4.0 credit hours |
| Tissue Identification | 4.0 credit hours |
| Diagnostic Histology II | 4.0 credit hours |
| Microtomy | 4.0 credit hours |
| Histology Externship I | 3.0 credit hours |
| Histology Externship II | 3.0 credit hours |
Note: All major courses are sequential and must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher to advance to the next course.
General Education Courses ( 29.0 credit hours )
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