Cancer Registry Management Certificate Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

1. You must first be admitted to Rochester Community and Technical College.  If you haven’t been admitted, apply now.
2. Complete the HIMC Management Careers Application.

Cancer Registry Application Form

How many applicants will be accepted?
Up to 29 students will be accepted into the program each semester. Due to the enrollment limitation, not all qualified applicants may be offered a seat in the program.

How and when will I be notified of my admission status into the Cancer Registry Management program?
The college will contact the applicant regarding his or her admission status approximately one month after the application deadline.

Will my prerequisite courses from other colleges transfer?
Possibly.  Once RCTC receives official transcripts from other colleges, a transfer evaluation will be completed.

What will my schedule be like?
All classes other than the clinical practicum are offered online. Classwork is completed on a weekly basis. Online courses require self-direction and discipline with good time management and organizational skills. For an online class, the recommended hours a student should spend is 3-4 hours a week per credit, so if you are taking a three-credit course you should expect to spend 9-12 hours a week.

How often is each course offered?
At this time, courses are offered fall and spring semesters. Only HIMC 2140 Professional Clinical Practicum is offered in the summer.

What is the suggested course load guidelines?
Students who work full time with family/personal commitments are suggested enrollment of two classes per semester. Students who work 20 hours with family/personal commitments are suggested enrollment of three classes per semester.

Will I be able to complete the clinical practicum in Rochester or in my local area?
Clinical practicums are completed in cancer registries across the nation.  Students will be offered assistance in locating a registry site. There are three ways to complete a practicum: in-person, virtual, or hybrid. An in-person practicum is the most valuable way for a student to gain critical experience but we realize this is not always possible and that is why we offer three ways to complete the practicum. All students must pass five online assessments through National Cancer Registrars Association.

How much time is required to complete the clinical practicum?
The practicum is roughly 100 to 140 hours of clinical practicum work.

Is a criminal background check required to complete the program?
Yes. Most on-site practicums will require a national criminal background check to ensure a safe environment for both students and the public and to meet the contractual requirements of area healthcare facilities.  The background check is paid by the student and is currently $55.00.