The curriculum for the Master of Cytopathology Practice (MCP) degree is designed to prepare competent entry-level histotechnologists and cytotechnologists with the skills necessary to prepare tissue and cytologic specimens for microscopic analysis, and to accurately evaluate and interpret all types of cytologic material. Graduates of the program will be able to perform, interpret and correlate ancillary testing for proper triage of patients. They will be able to meet the current demands of the profession and will be prepared to engage future technology as it becomes standard in the anatomic pathology laboratory. Graduates of the program will also have the necessary skills in quality assessment to direct quality improvement activities and assume positions of leadership in management, research and education. Graduates of the program are qualified to sit for both the cytotechnologist and histotechnologist certification examinations offered by the American Society of Clinical Pathology Board of Certification.
Curriculum Description
The program is a full-time professional degree program that leads to a Master of Cytopathology Practice degree. Students must complete a baccalaureate degree at an accredited college or university that includes specific pre-requisite courses prior to enrolling in the program on the campus of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Students receive both clinical experience and didactic instruction throughout the program, with the greatest emphasis on microscopic interpretation of cells for diagnosis of disease. Techniques of specimen collection, fixation, preparation, processing, embedding, microtomy and staining are mastered, as well as procedures for documentation and quality improvement. Students perform and interpret ancillary technologies including immunohistochemistry and molecular diagnostic techniques. They are introduced to laboratory management principles and laboratory information systems. Required oral presentations by students include selected scientific literature reviews and case studies. Students also design and conduct a research project for presentation.
