Welcome to the Rochester Community and Technical College web site!

If you are getting this message, you may currently be using a screen reader, small-screen handheld device, a text-based browser or an older browser that doesn't support modern web standards.

SKIP to: User Groups, Site Search, Page content, Quick Links, Contact Information

Prospective Students :: Enrolled Students :: Employees :: Alumni :: Community :: RCTC Home

Popular Topics:

Have Questions?

Get Answers.

Histology Technician Program

<< Programs List

Career/Program Overview

RCTC’s Histology Technician program was recently developed in collaboration with Mayo Clinic, Rochester. Histology Technicians specialize in the techniques of preparing body tissue samples for pathologists to examine under the microscope. Skills and knowledge in the use of precision equipment and numerous special techniques enable histology technicians to accurately demonstrate the morphology of tissue specimens. Proper preparation of tissue samples is critical in optimizing the ability of pathologists to microscopically visualize tissue structure and tumor identification for patient care.

Curriculum-at-a-Glance

General education coursework and Introduction to Medical Terminology for a total of 36 credits are taken at RCTC. Coursework also includes 24 credits of Histology core courses taken through Mayo School of Health Sciences.

Program/Degree Options

RCTC offers an Associate of Science degree in Histology Technician.

Program Start Date(s)

Students can begin general education requirements any semester. Some Histology Technician courses are not offered every semester so students are encouraged to meet with program advisors to plan ahead.

This program is jointly offered by RCTC and Mayo Clinic. Students apply to both RCTC and the Mayo School of Health Sciences and are admitted through the Mayo School of Health Sciences. Program applications can be obtained from Mayo School of Health Sciences.

Career Opportunities/Information

Histology technicians work in routine and specialized clinical labs, as well as in research settings of healthcare organizations. Currently, the career outlook for histology technicians is very strong.

Accreditations/Articulations

Rochester Community and Technical College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission: A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Mayo School of Health Sciences Histology Technician Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

All courses are offered through RCTC and MSHS.