CURRICULUM
DMC-University Laboratories Cytotechnology Program consists of 12 months of intensive one-on-one training. The program begins in late August and concludes the following August. However, the program reserves the right to change the start and completion dates provided due notice is given to applicants and/or students. Students are expected to be present 5 days per week / 8 hours per day, except on major holidays and other leaves scheduled by the program.
The curriculum is based upon the entry-level competencies for cytotechnologists developed by the American Society of Cytopathology Cytotechnology Programs Review Committee. These competencies range from screening and diagnostic skills to knowledge of cytopreparatory techniques to knowledge of adjunct technologies to professional development skills. A full list of these competencies is available upon request.
The program curriculum is structured to provide a professional environment through close interaction with DMC-UL Cytopathology Laboratory. Students have the opportunity to receive first hand knowledge and experience with a functioning laboratory and to interact with working health care professionals including cytopathologists, cytotechnologists, laboratory assistants, residents, fellows and clinicians. Approximately 9 months are dedicated to in-depth studies of all body systems, each including formal lectures, microscopic instruction and practice, and specimen preparation techniques. Quizzes and final exams, both written and practical, are administered throughout the year to provide constant feedback about student progress. The balance of the program is devoted to supervised microscopy of routine laboratory specimens. Throughout the year, students also participate in a variety of relevant experiences such as management-, research-, and education-focused projects, lectures and activities related to special topics that are relevant to current and future practice, clinic visits, journal reviews, conferences, and local cytopathology conferences when they are available. Emphasis is placed on competence in problem solving, accuracy and professional development throughout the entire program.
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