| Degree: | Post-diploma; Online; Distance |
| Field of Study: | Cell Biology and Anatomy
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
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| Description: | Cytology is the study of cells. Using the light microscope, Cytotechnologists study human cells collected from organs and fluids throughout the body. Patient samples are processed, cells are collected onto glass slides and stained. Cytotechnologists detect and diagnose precancerous changes, cancer, and some infections. A Cytotechnologist looks over the entire microscope slide, marking areas showing significant cellular changes in a cell's size, shape, and colour. The Cytotechnologist may work closely with a pathologist. Cytotechnologists must be accurate, patient, and have strong analytical and problem solving skills to rise to the challenge of making critical diagnoses. Cytotechnologists have limited contact with patients but still interact with members of the health care team.
Diagnostic Cytology is a 60-week, intensive full-time program. The theoretical or didactic component is delivered primarily through online education. You will need to study a minimum of 35 - 40 hours each week to complete all the educational requirements in the distance part of the program. Microscope skills are developed in 11, one week live laboratory sessions at Michener. The program also includes 15 weeks simulated clinical at Michener and a 15-week clinical experience in a hospital and or private laboratory. |