Proficiency with high-tech equipment, strong hand-eye coordination, and manual dexterity are all characteristics of the Histologic Technician. Histologic Technicians prepare slides of tissues for microscopic examination. Often work must be done quickly and delicately while a patient is still in surgery. By cutting and staining tissue for use on laboratory slides, the Histologic Technician becomes a vital part of the team that helps diagnose disease. A Histologic Technician who completes a bachelor’s degree or attends an accredited histologic technology program can advance to a Histotechnologist. These professionals perform more complex procedures and can also teach or be a laboratory supervisor.
Histologic technicians complete a one-year certificate program or a two-year associate degree program at a community or junior college. Both education tracks include practical laboratory experience. Certification as a histologic technician, HT (ASCP), is available after completing all requirements. These requirements include successful completion of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists examination.