A key part of health care.
Cytotechnologists are health care professionals who detect cancer by examining cells with a microscope. Although the Pap test for cervical cancer is the most common test performed in the laboratory, other body sites such as lung, GI tract, lymph node, and many other tissues are an increasingly important part of our work. These professionals are increasingly in demand and an important part of the health care team. To become a cytotechnologist in the U.S., two things are required: a Bachelor of Science from an accredited cytotechnology program followed by certification.

Smooth transition.
Current KU biology students have a great opportunity to enter this field because your existing undergraduate study often overlaps the prerequisites for cytotechnology. Usually, students complete 3 years of biology study in Lawrence and then obtain their cytotechnology degree after one year at the KU Medical Center. Students may enter the program as a senior-year undergraduate or after graduation from KU.

Advanced learning environment.
With a total of 4 positions admitted each year, students are ensured an individual academic and clinical experience. From microscope equipment to hospital laboratories, KU provides the latest technology in a real-world environment. Nationally recognized faculty provide instruction in the latest technologies: liquid-based processing, fine needle aspiration, and molecular diagnostics.

And with a top-10 national ranking on registry examinations, our graduates leave prepared to enter the profession with experience.

A Brief History of the Cytotechnology program at KU

The University of Kansas Medical Center has maintained a program in cytotechnology since the earliest days of the profession in the mid 1950s. The program was originally housed in the Pathology department of the hospital. Cytotechnology joined the School of Allied Health in 1987. Today faculty and students split their time between the classroom learning environment in the school and the real-world experience provided by The University of Kansas Hospital.

In 1969, Dr. Fritz Lin became Medical Director of the program and remained in that role until 1990. The current Medical Director of the program is Dr. Ossama Tawfik. The first Educational Coordinator of the program was Sarah Freeland, MT(ASCP), followed by Geraldine Johnson, MT(ASCP), CT(ASCP) and later Marilee Means, PhD, SCT(ASCP). In 1983, Dr. Means was appointed Program Director and she continues to lead the program today.

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