What will I do in this job?

If you want to be a cytotechnologist, you will use special techniques to prepare cellular samples for study under the microscope and assist in the diagnosis of diseases by examining the samples. Much of your work will be done with a microscope in screening preparations of body cells for abnormalities in structure that will indicate benign, infectious, inflammatory or malignant condition. These cells come from:

• PAP smears
• oral cavity
• lung
• any body cavity shedding cells

You will probably work in a hospital, clinic or private laboratory under the supervision of a pathologist. Some cytotechnologists work at universities as teachers or researchers.

Do I need special credentials?

National certification is voluntary, but strongly recommended. Cyotechnologist who graduate from an accredited program, complete an internship, and pass a national certification exam, may use the initials CT.

What type of education do I need?

You will need at least twenty semester hours of biological sciences, eight semester hours of chemistry, and some mathematics. The cytotechnology program is usually twelve months of specialized training after completing the prerequisite coursework.

Will I find a job?

Employment is expected to grow at an average rate through 2006

How much money will I make?

Median Salary: $49,920 (Ranges from $41,500-$54,500)
(2003-2004)