Histotechnician

Program Description

The Merritt College Histotechnician Certificate of Achievement program provides on-campus and on-site technical training in the field of histotechnology, focusing on routine tissue sample preparation, special stains and techniques such as immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, fluorescence microscopy and genomics. Training on campus will utilize samples routinely prepared in both clinical and research facilities. As part of their formal training, students of histotechnology will work through study guides provided by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) for its certification examination. Partnerships with local facilities will allow for work experience and internship sites required for certification of histotechnician graduates and will provide further training for those interested in research and/or careers in the private sector. Completion of this Program qualifies students for HT or HTL certification through ASCP.

A Certificate of Achievement will be awarded upon successful completion of the requirements below.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities may include positions in hospital and clinical diagnostic labs, biotech histotechnology labs, academic research labs, agricultural and plant pathology labs, and veterinarian labs.

Learning Outcome(s)

1. Identify tissues as well as prepare tissue samples for analysis following ASCP/NAACLS guidelines.
2. Demonstrate good laboratory practices, as well as skilled handling of histotech, microscopy and genomics laboratory equipment, including trouble-shooting.