Diagnostic Cytology

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Michener offers one of the only Diagnostic Cytology programs in Canada. Graduates are eligible to write the national certification examination conducted by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS).

The program is accredited by Accreditation Canada.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

• Detecting and diagnosing precancerous cellular changes using high-powered light microscopes • Being an integral part of the health care team, including working with pathologists

ABOUT THE PROFESSION

Cytotechnologists play a crucial role in the fight against cancer by examining human cells and preparing reports on any abnormal results for a pathologist who will make a definitive diagnosis based upon the Cytotechnologist’s initial findings. Cytotechnologists detect and diagnose precancerous cellular changes by looking at specimen slides taken from pap smears, the lung, bladder, lymph nodes, thyroid gland and other parts of the body. Though there is limited direct contact with patients, Cytotechnologists play a vital role in the health care team.

WHERE CAN I WORK?

Most Cytotechnologists work in hospitals or community laboratories, but they may also find employment in areas such as laboratory management, research, education, sales and marketing and technical consulting.

“This program provided me with a unique combination of theory-based learning and practical simulations.” Betty W. Diagnostic Cytology Student

Credential Earned

Program Length

Program Delivery

Start Date

Application Deadline

Advanced Diploma

5 semesters across 2 years (full-time)

On site

September 2021

February 1, 2021

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

A) Bachelor of Science with a minimum cGPA of 3.0 and one (1) of the following requirements: • At least two (2) of the following university-level genetics courses completed within the last 10 years with a minimum grade of 70%: –0.5 credit in Human Genetics (one-semester course) –0.5 credit in Molecular Genetics (one-semester course) or • Michener’s Human Genetics (HGCE100) and Michener’s Molecular Genetics (MGCE100) courses with a minimum grade of 70% in each course

or

B) Canadian Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) with a degree or diploma and one (1) of the following requirements: • At least two (2) of the following university-level genetics courses completed within the last 10 years with a minimum grade of 70%: –0.5 credit in Human Genetics (one-semester course) –0.5 credit in Molecular Genetics (one-semester course) or • Michener’s Human Genetics (HGCE100) and Michener’s Molecular Genetics (MGCE100) courses with a minimum grade of 70% in each course All applicants are required to submit an Applicant Experience Checklist (found on Admission Requirements for Full Time Programs page on michener.ca).