Histology technicians (or technologists) are trained medical professionals who assist pathologists by preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination. According to the Mayo Clinic's Career Exploration website, histology technicians must have excellent hand and eye coordination, eyesight, and a teamwork-centered temperament, as histology technicians work closely with other technicians, pathologists, clerks, and others scientists.
Job Duties
Preparing tissue samples for examination is the primary job of a histology technician. This job requires the usage of a number of computerized equipment, machines, and excellent manual dexterity. For these reasons, if you wish to become a histology technician, you should take advanced (college level) courses in medical technology and medical terminology. Histology technicians also use a variety of chemicals and chemical compounds to treat various types of tissue for examination, so you should also take high school and/or college level courses in chemistry, biology, and mathematics.
Education
According to SchoolsintheUSA.com, histology technicians usually begin their careers by completing two year associate's degrees in histology. For those in high school considering a career in histology, the Mayo Clinic Career Exploration website suggests you take advanced math, chemistry, and biology courses. Because histology technicians must prepare tissue samples using computerized equipment, it is also helpful to take college level courses in medical technology and medical terminology. In addition to completing an associate's degree, many histology technicians also supplement their education by volunteering in hospitals and clinical labs.
Salary and Career Advancement
Once established in the field, histology technicians can advance from positions as technicians to lab supervisors or supplement their income as instructors in the subject. If you wish to further your education, many histology technicians earn bachelor's degrees in chemistry or biology. This will enable you to handle positions such as lab supervisor, or as a senior histology technician. According to SchoolsintheUSA.com, histology technicians begin earning a yearly salary of around $32,000. Once established in their field, histology technicians can earn up to approximately $46,000 a year.
Tags: histology technicians, chemistry biology, college level, college level courses, histology technician, level courses, tissue samples
