FAQ's on Education
Q: Where is there information regarding careers in the laboratory?
Q: How I get a list of clinical laboratory education programs?
A: ASCLS provides several resources on accredited education programs at
The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science provides lists of education
programs they accredit for the following laboratory specialties:
CA: Clinincal Assistant
CG: Cytogenetic Technologist
CLS/MT: Clinical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist
CLT/MLT: Clinical Laboratory Technician/Medical Laboratory Technician
DMS: Diagnostic Molecular Scientists
HT: Histotechnician
HTL: Histotechnologist
PATH A: Pathologists' Assistant
PHLEB: Phlebotomy
The Commission on Accreditation in Clinical Chemistry provides a listing of resources for
graduate level training programs in Clinical Chemistry at:
Q: Are there any programs that specialize in genetic technology training?
Q: What does a cytotechnologist do?
A: A cytotechnologist analyzes cells under a microscope to detect cancer. They work actively
with pathologists. Cytotechnologists screen Pap tests; look at cells in search of cancer
in body fluids and biopsies. Their duties may also include molecular pathology, image
analysis and other laboratory testing depending upon the organization of the laboratory.
Q: How many training programs are there in the U.S. for cytotechnologists?
A: There are 34 active training programs in the United States
Q: How many cytotechnologists are there in each program?
A: Programs vary and range from 2-12 per cohort, with an average of cytotechnology students per year in each program.