Health Services: Cytotechnology - Diploma

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Program Overview

Location(s):
  • SIAST Kelsey Campus, Saskatoon
Length: 86 weeks: 

Year 1 - 41 weeks; Year 2 - 45 weeks

Overview

Cytotechnology is the microscopic study of cells for disease, and cytotechnologists are its trained practitioners. They are front-line investigators who use their skills to help health care teams solve complex puzzles of disease and illness.

SIAST's nationally accredited two-year Cytotechnology diploma program emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning. You'll develop the knowledge and skill necessary to diagnose disease by identifying alterations in cell morphology (forms).

Your studies will focus on:

  • introductory anatomy, physiology and molecular biology
  • gynecologic, respiratory and aspiration cytology
  • hematology
  • histotechnology
  • immunology
  • cytopathology

First-year classroom learning is augmented by lab work, where you will learn to perform basic procedures and begin developing your detection skills. Your second year focuses on clinical experience. You'll participate in four separate practicums, each focused on building your knowledge and skills in specific areas and techniques.

Clinical experiences take place in Regina and are assigned by the Medical Diagnostics Committee on Practicum Placements.

Note

International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this program.

Did you know?

SIAST's Cytotechnology program is accredited by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). Program content is based on the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science competency profile, with topics added as appropriate for addressing local needs.

Graduates are eligible to write the national Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science exam, which allows you to work anywhere in Canada. You are also eligible for licensure with the Saskatchewan Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists.

Your SIAST diploma can also be used as a stepping stone to a university degree. Graduates earn a two-year credit toward degree programs at the University of Regina and Athabasca University.

How does it fit?

Cytotechnologists are natural scientists - people who are curious about the human body and enjoy using microscopes to explore its inner workings. Cytotechnology is a profession that demands a high degree of accuracy, strong decision-making skills and the ability to take responsibility for your work.

Career Opportunities

Graduates certified by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science can work anywhere in Canada. Most cytotechnologists work in hospital, university or private research laboratories. Job opportunities also are available with screening programs in large urban centres.

Day-to-day responsibilities generally include preparing slides for microscopic examination; evaluating cells for the presence of cancer, precancerous changes or infection and providing interpretations to pathologists. Your interests could also take you in a different direction - to a career in education or sales, for example.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the SIAST campus nearest you.

Program Details

Start Date(s): August

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Admission Information

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30, Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*, Physics 20, Chemistry 30 and Biology 30
  • Minimum of 70% in Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30 and each science
  • English Language Requirement

Note

  • Physics 30 will not be substituted for Physics 20.
  • Accepted applicants may be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check. The cost of the Criminal Record Check is your responsibility.
  • You must attend an informational meeting with program personnel.
  • Standard First Aid and CPR HeartSaver " C" AED or equivalent are required prior to entry into the clinical practicum.


*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

  • Minimum of 70% in Math B30 

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post Secondary Success Requirements for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

  • 90 Arithmetic
  • 70 Elementary Algebra
  • 85 Reading
  • 85 Sentence
  • 5 WritePlacer

Post-Secondary Success

One year post-secondary studies plus 70% in Math B30 and in each science.

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake. 

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Factsheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.


Transfer Credit

Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.

 

Courses

Year 1

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
APHY 191

Anatomy and Physiology 1

You will explore the structure and function of organs and systems in the normal human body. Your studies will focus on the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and endocrine systems.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 42

Equivalent Course(s): APHY 162

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group

3
APHY 282

Anatomy and Physiology 2

Building on the knowledge gained in APHY 191 (Anatomy and Physiology 1), you will continue your study of the structure and function of the normal human body. Your studies will focus on the cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 38

Prerequisites(s): APHY 191

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group

3
BIOL 181

Molecular Biology

You will study the principles of molecular biology techniques and explain the practical applications of this technology as it would apply in a diagnostic laboratory. The course content includes DNA/RNA isolation, hybridization, Polymerase Chain Reaction and restriction enzyme analysis.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 12

Lab Hours: 3

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

1
CYTO 180

Gynecologic Cytology Theory 1

You will study the cytomorphology of the female genital tract in the absence of pathology. This includes the responses of the female genital tract to the endocrine system, as well as inflammatory reactions and microorganisms found in cytologic specimens.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 50

Prerequisites(s): PATH 281

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
CYTO 181

Gynecologic Cytology Lab 1

Building on the theory learned in Gynecologic Cytology Theory 1 (CYTO 180), you will develop the skills needed to recognize normal states in gynecologic specimens. This includes cytohormonal patterns and inflammatory agents.


Credit Units: 4

Lab Hours: 67

Prerequisites(s): CYTO 180, PATH 281

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

4
CYTO 182

Respiratory Cytology 1

You will develop an understanding of the anatomy, histology and normal cytology of the lung. You will study the cytologic features associated with benign conditions, fungal diseases and viral infections in sputum, bronchial brush, bronchial wash, bronchial alveolar lavage and fine needle aspiration specimens. You will also develop detection skills in recognizing the elements studied.


Credit Units: 4

Lecture Hours: 30

Lab Hours: 28

Prerequisites(s): PATH 281

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
CYTO 184

Aspiration Cytology 1

Your studies will focus on the embryology, anatomy, histology and cytology of the breast and thyroid gland. The pathology of each site will be related to histologic and cytologic features. You will study the principles of immunocytochemistry in relation to differential diagnoses. Your laboratory sessions will complement the theory and will focus on identifying pathologic states.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 68

Prerequisites(s): PATH 281

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
CYTO 280

Gynecologic Cytology Theory 2

Building on the theory learned in Gynecologic Cytology Theory 1 (CYTO 180) you will study the cytomorphology of the female genital tract in pathologic states. This includes both benign and malignant lesions, as well as reactions to therapy.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 50

Prerequisites(s): CYTO 180

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
CYTO 281

Gynecologic Cytology Lab 2

Building on the theory learned in Gynecologic Cytology Theory 2 (CYTO 280), you will develop the skills needed to recognize pathologic states in gynecological cytology. The early detection of asymptomatic cancer will be emphasized.


Credit Units: 6

Lab Hours: 88

Prerequisites(s): CYTO 181, CYTO 280

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

6
CYTO 282

Respiratory Cytology 2

Building on the knowledge acquired in Respiratory Cytology 1 (CYTO 182) you will develop an understanding of the pathology of the lung. You will review the cytologic features of lung cancer in sputum, bronchial brush, bronchial wash and fine needle aspiration specimens. Your laboratory sessions will complement the theory and will focus on recognizing and differentiating malignant tumours of the lung. You will also develop detection skills in recognizing the elements studied.


Credit Units: 4

Lecture Hours: 30

Lab Hours: 32

Prerequisites(s): CYTO 182

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
CYTO 283

Aspiration Cytology 2

Your studies will focus on the embryology, anatomy, histology and cytology of the lymph nodes, salivary glands and head and neck lesions. The pathology of each site will be related to histologic and cytologic features. You will study the principles of immunocytochemistry in relation to differential diagnoses. Your laboratory sessions will complement the theory and will focus on identifying pathologic states.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 47

Prerequisites(s): PATH 281

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
CYTO 286

Body Fluid Analysis

You will develop an understanding of the anatomy, histology and cytology of the urinary tract, body cavities and central nervous system. You will study cytologic features associated with various pathologic states in fluid and aspirated specimens. Your laboratory sessions will complement the theory and will focus on recognizing normal and pathologic states. You will also develop detection skills in recognizing the elements studied.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 37

Lab Hours: 40

Prerequisites(s): PATH 281

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
CYTO 287

Gastrointestinal Cytology

Your studies will focus on the anatomy, histology and cytology of the gastrointestinal tract and accessory organs. The pathology of each site will be related to histologic and cytologic features. You will learn principles of ancillary studies in relation to differential diagnoses. Your laboratory sessions will complement the theory and will focus on identifying malignant pathologic states.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 40

Lab Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): PATH 281

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
CYTO 289

Aspiration Cytology 3

Your studies will focus primarily on the anatomy, histology and cytology of the kidneys, adrenal glands and gonads. Other sites which are not commonly aspirated, such as the mediastinum, soft tissue, bone, eyes and ears, as well as malignant melanomas, will be discussed in theory. You will study the principles of ancillary testing in relation to differential diagnoses.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): PATH 281

Equivalent Course(s): CYTO 288

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
ETHC 185

Professional Practices 1

You will receive an introduction to health care and health care delivery systems. You will study the legal and ethical issues faced by health care professionals. You will discuss interpersonal and employability skills required in health care professions with an emphasis on teamwork, stress management and problem solving. You will develop critical thinking skills and conflict resolution techniques.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Equivalent Course(s): HUMR 182

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group

3
ETHC 280

Professional Practices 2

You will study health care organizational behaviour and the skills required for leadership/management roles. You will discuss cooperative work relationships, conflict resolution, budgeting, strategic planning, the collective bargaining process and workload measurements. You will create workplace documents and demonstrate job search techniques.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): ETHC 185

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group

2
HEMA 191

Fundamental Hemopathology

You will be introduced to the pathophysiology of blood diseases. You will study the impact of disease on leukocytes and the role of the laboratory in diagnosis and treatment.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 15

Lab Hours: 15

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
HSTC 184

Microanatomy

You will recognize functional cells and tissue arrangements. You will also study the micro-anatomical structure of the body's major organs.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 20

Lab Hours: 15

Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, MTER 180

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
HSTC 185

Histotechnology 1

You will be introduced to the principles and practices of preparing clinical specimens for histological examination (including fixation, decalcification processing, embedding and microtomy).


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 20

Lab Hours: 20

Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, PROC 180, PROC 182

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
HSTC 187

Histotechnology 2

You will discuss the principles and practices used in a laboratory and prepare clinical histology specimens for demonstrating cellular and non-cellular elements.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 23

Lab Hours: 17

Prerequisites(s): HSTC 184, HSTC 185

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
IMMU 282

Introductory Immunology

You will be introduced to the immune system. Your studies will focus on antigen-antibody reactions, the immune response and the basic antigen-antibody principles associated with cytology.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 20

Prerequisites(s): MTER 180

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

1
INFC 180

Infection Control and Safety

You will study the transmission of microorganisms, blood-borne pathogens (i.e. hepatitis virus and HIV), standard precautions, isolation procedures, immunization for medical workers, sterilization and disinfection, biohazardous waste, safety and WHMIS.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 23

Lab Hours: 2

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard

2
MTER 180

Medical Terminology

You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes and combining forms from which medical terms are derived. You will also learn to use medical abbreviations.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 10

Equivalent Course(s): MED 161

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group

1
PATH 185

Introductory Cytopathology 1

You will discuss general cytology practices including sampling techniques, cytologic stains and the evolution of cytology. You will learn about quality control and quality assurance in the medical laboratory. You will develop a basic knowledge of the cell, the cell cycle, chromosomes and their relationship to cancer.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): MTER 180

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
PATH 280

Introductory Cytopathology 2

You will develop a basic knowledge of the cell's response to injury, inflammation and repair. You will also learn about cell life and death. You will also be introduced to normal and abnormal cytomorphology.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): PATH 185

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
PATH 281

Introductory Cytopathology 3

You will develop a basic knowledge of disease processes as a foundation for the study of cytology. You will learn the nature and cause of disease with an emphasis on neoplasia.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 25

Prerequisites(s): PATH 280

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
PROC 182

Cytology Lab Procedures

You will learn the theory and practice required to perform basic procedures in a laboratory. These include laboratory glassware, pipettes, use of balances, centrifuges and microscopes, and solution preparation with related calculations. Cytologic specimen preparation and staining will be emphasized.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 50

Lab Hours: 25

Prerequisites(s): INFC 180

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
SIMU 282

Simulation Laboratory

You will participate in a 30 hour simulation laboratory designed to reflect clinical setting expectations. You will microscopically evaluate known gynecological and non-gynecological specimens using appropriate terminology and scientific knowledge.


Credit Units: 2

Lab Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): BIOL 181, CYTO 184, CYTO 281, CYTO 282, CYTO 283, CYTO 286, CYTO 289, ETHC 280, HEMA 191, HSTC 187, IMMU 282

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

2

Year 2

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
PRAC 291

Cytology Practicum 1

You will participate in a practical experience in gynecological and non-gynecological cytology and cytopreparatory technique. This will include a comprehensive review of your theoretical knowledge through routine screening, written and slide exercises, case studies and exams.


Credit Units: 27

Other Hours: 405

Prerequisites(s): SIMU 282

Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

27
PRAC 292

Cytology Practicum 2

You will participate in a practical experience in gynecological and non-gynecological cytology and cytopreparatory technique. This will include a comprehensive review of your theoretical knowledge through routine screening, written and slide exercises, case studies and exams. You will maintain and build on the competencies achieved during Cytology Practicum 1 (PRAC 291).


Credit Units: 27

Other Hours: 405

Prerequisites(s): PRAC 291

Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

27
PRAC 294

Cytology Practicum 3

You will participate in a practical experience in gynecological and non-gynecological cytology and cytopreparatory technique. This will include a comprehensive review of your theoretical knowledge through routine screening, written and slide exercises, case studies and exams. You will maintain and build on the competencies achieved during Cytology Practicum 1 (PRAC 291) and Cytology Practicum 2 (PRAC 292).


Credit Units: 27

Other Hours: 405

Prerequisites(s): PRAC 292

Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

27
PRAC 295

Cytology Practicum 4

You will participate in a practical experience in gynecological and non-gynecological cytology and cytopreparatory technique. This will include a comprehensive review of your theoretical knowledge through routine screening, written and slide exercises, case studies and exams. You will maintain and build on the competencies achieved during Cytology Practicum 1 (PRAC 291), Cytology Practicum 2 (PRAC 292) and Cytology Practicum 3 (PRAC 294).


Credit Units: 27

Other Hours: 405

Prerequisites(s): PRAC 294

Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

27

Note: Labs, projects and practicums are used to actively involve you in the learning process and allow you to apply learned theory as you develop your skills.

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SIAST is Saskatchewan's primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training, recognized nationally and internationally for its expertise and innovation. Through program and course registrations, SIAST serves 26,000 distinct students with programs that touch every sector of the economy. SIAST operates campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and provides a number of courses and programs through distance education.

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