Cytotechnology (Certificate)
The School of Medical Diagnostic and Translational Sciences offers a program in cytotechnology through the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. The program offers a first and second degree option as well as a post-baccalaureate degree option. Cytotechnologists are specially trained medical laboratory professionals who work with pathologists in detecting changes in cell samples from numerous body sites which allows the early diagnosis of cancer. This is done primarily with the use of the microscope to evaluate slide preparation of cell samples for abnormalities in structure, indicating cancer, precancerous lesions, benign tumors, infectious agents and inflammatory processes. They are also trained in specimen preparation, molecular, FISH, flow cytometry techniques, and fine needle aspiration cytology.
Cytotechnology (Certificate)
Description
What is Cytotechnology at ODU like?
The School of Medical Diagnostic and Translational Sciences offers a program in cytotechnology through the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. The program offers a first and second degree option as well as a post-baccalaureate degree option. Cytotechnologists are specially trained medical laboratory professionals who work with pathologists in detecting changes in cell samples from numerous body sites which allows the early diagnosis of cancer. This is done primarily with the use of the microscope to evaluate slide preparation of cell samples for abnormalities in structure, indicating cancer, precancerous lesions, benign tumors, infectious agents and inflammatory processes. They are also trained in specimen preparation, molecular, FISH, flow cytometry techniques, and fine needle aspiration cytology.
Program Highlights
What makes Cytotechnology at ODU unique?
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Small program with one-on-one instruction; opportunities to be on the cutting edge of cancer diagnosis and research; great starting salaries: range between 60-70K; One of only 21 program in the nation and the only program in Virginia; 100% job placement
Delivery Mode(s):
On-Campus
Degree Earned:
Undergraduate Certificate
Department:
Careers
What are some careers in this field?
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Cytotechnologists
MEDIAN SALARY
Stain, mount, and study cells to detect evidence of cancer, hormonal abnormalities, and other pathological conditions following established standards and practices.
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
MEDIAN SALARY
Perform complex medical laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. May train or supervise staff.
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
MEDIAN SALARY
Perform routine medical laboratory tests for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. May work under the supervision of a medical technologist.
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$87,660
MEDIAN SALARY
Teach courses in environmental science. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Courses
What are some courses offered in Cytotechnology at ODU?
MDTS 401:
Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory
Course includes hands-on experience with or discussion of diagnostics instrumentation and assays using nucleic acid and protein extraction, gel electrophoresis, hybridization techniques, standard and real time polymerase chain reaction PCR), reverse transcription, DNA sequencing, autoradiography, flow cytometry, microarrays and proteomics-based methods. Prerequisite: acceptance to the medical laboratory science major, cytotechnology major, or molecular diagnostics certificate program.
CYTO 404:
General Pathology
This course is an overview of general disease processes and causes in the human. All body systems will be covered including respiratory, gastrointestinal, circulatory, nervous, reproductive, and urinary. Aging, dietary, and stress factors will be discussed in the disease process. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses will be discussed in general and for each body system. Neoplasms will be covered for each body site. This course will be of benefit to anyone interested in diseases of the human body or entering the medical field. (cross listed with MLS 401) Prerequisites: junior standing. Pre- or corequisite: BIOL 250 and BIOL 251 or equivalent.
CYTO 407:
Clinical Histology
This course consists of the systematic study of cellular components as well as the grouping/organization of tissues into major 'organ' systems. Microscopic and virtual identification and morphology of cells, tissues, and organ substructures will be emphasized. This course will be of benefit to anyone interested in diseases of the human body or entering the medical field. Prerequisites: permission of the instructor.
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Cytotechnology at ODU?
Students entering the Undergraduate Certificate program in Cytotechnology should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)
- Completed program application form with goals statement.
- Official transcripts from all universities and colleges attended.
- Biology and chemistry cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or above
- Three letters of recommendation - forms provided with application.
- Formal interview after initial pre-screening by program officials.
For admission to the Cytotechnology program
GPA:
Overall grade point average (GPA): 2.8 or above
Cost
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Virginia Resident
Per Credit:
$ 374
Non-Resident
Per Credit:
$ 1,039
Active Duty Military Rate
Per Credit:
$ 250
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Per Credit:
$ 407
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Scholarships
- American Society of Clinical Pathologists, American Society of Cytology
- American Society of Cytotechnologists(Limited scholarships for current students)
Next Steps
I like this program. What are the next steps?
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Contact
Need help applying?
Meet Your Enrollment Team
Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.
SENIOR LECTURER
Name:
Deborah Krzyzaniak
Location:
2118 HEALTH SCIENCES BLDG, NORFOLK, VA, 23529
Email:
Office:
757-683-3588
Undergraduate Admissions
Location:
1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3685
Fax:
757-683-3255
Email:
admissions@odu.edu
International Admissions
Location:
2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3701
Fax:
757-683-3651
Email:
intladm@odu.edu
Transfer
I like this program and want to transfer. What are my next steps?
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transition, engagement, and academic achievement of transfer students. The services and programs offered to you as a Monarch are endless so take advantage of every opportunity. Even before you set foot on campus, we encourage you to Explore, Experience, and Engage! Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
Related Programs
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