Master of Science in Pathologists Assistant (MPA)
Program Overview
Alfaisal University's Master of Pathologist Assistant (MPA) program equips students with advanced skills in diagnostic medicine, surgical pathology, autopsy pathology, and laboratory management. Developed in partnership with King Fahad Medical City, it prepares graduates for the dynamic field of pathology as they assist pathologists in hospitals, labs, and research centers. The program is open to graduates in health-related professions and emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, professional development, and ethical practice.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Pathologist Assistant (MPA) program at Alfaisal University is a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to become Pathologists' Assistants. The program focuses on cutting-edge technologies of diagnostic medicine, training students in surgical pathology, autopsy pathology, and laboratory management. It emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, professional development, and ethical practice. The program is developed and implemented in collaboration with King Fahad Medical City.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Train students on cutting-edge technologies of diagnostic medicine.
- Develop proficiency in critical aspects such as surgical pathology, autopsy pathology, and laboratory management.
- Prepare students to address the complex challenges of modern diagnostic pathology.
- Ensure graduates are well-prepared for the role and responsibilities of a Pathologists' Assistant.
Outline:
Program Structure:
- Two-year, 42-credit program with a total of 4 semesters.
Course Schedule:
- Year 1:
- Gross Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Histotechnology and Laboratory Management
- General Mechanism of Disease
- Organ System Pathology I and II
- Autopsy Pathology and Toxicology
- Surgical Pathology (I-II)
- Year 2:
- Surgical Pathology (III-IV)
- Pediatric Pathology
- Research Methodologies
- Biomedical Ethics
- Research Capstone Project (A/B)
Module Descriptions:
- Gross Human Anatomy and Physiology: Comprehensive introductory course to integrative organ system physiology and homeostatic regulatory mechanisms.
- Histotechnology and Laboratory Management: Focuses on laboratory skills and management aspects required for clinical or research histology facilities, including specimen acquisition, fixation, tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining. Introduces paraffin-based techniques with H&E/special stains.
- General Mechanism of Disease: Serves as a transition from foundational modules to organ systems courses. Reinforces interrelationships of structure and function. The course flow interphases with topic material taught concurrently in autopsy and surgical pathology techniques. Students receive hands-on instruction in forensic autopsies during a four-week rotation.
- Pediatric Pathology: Provides didactic and practical experience in pediatric pathology dissection.
- Research Methodologies: Designed to understand fundamentals of research, characteristics of research, research designs, methods of sampling, data collection, processing and analysis, ethical considerations, use of literature review, sources of information, and organization of information.
- Biomedical Ethics: Introduces basic principles and methods of analysis from ethical theories applicable to contemporary moral problems in biomedical research and professional practice.
- Research Capstone Project (A/B): Enables students to pursue a chosen topic through a literature search, collection and analysis of data, project report preparation, and defense.
Careers:
- Hospitals: Assisting pathologists in the examination and analysis of body tissues and fluids.
- Private Pathology Laboratories: Providing diagnostic services and managing laboratory operations.
- Medical Research Centers: Assisting in research and development related to disease diagnosis and prevention.
- Medical Schools: Serving as instructors for medical students in histology and pathology labs.
- Forensic Pathology: Assisting medical examiners and forensic pathologists in post-mortem examinations.
Other:
- The program is designed and executed in collaboration with King Fahad Medical City.
- Alfaisal University is the first and only university in the region to offer this program.
- The healthcare sector of Saudi Arabia is continuously expanding, leading to a growing demand for Pathologists' Assistants.
- The program is available to any university graduate in a health-related profession, and others approved by the university.
- The program is open to both male and female, Saudi and non-Saudi students.
Al Faisal University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Al Faisal University is a student-centered institution dedicated to creating and disseminating knowledge through world-class undergraduate and graduate programs, research, and service. It aims to benefit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the region, and the world, stimulating the development of knowledge-based economies. The university prides itself on its innovative academic programs, hands-on opportunities, and rigorous coursework, preparing students for a complex global society.
Services Offered:
Al Faisal University offers a range of services to its students, including:
Financial Aid:
Merit-based and need-based scholarships are available to students.Counseling:
The Counseling and Skills Development Unit (CSDU) promotes a welcoming atmosphere conducive to student well-being, personal growth, and psychological health.Enrichment Programs:
Alfaisal University Enrichment Programs (AUEP) bridge the gap between high school and university, delivering knowledge and skills in a wide range of evolving fields.Events & Activities:
With over 50 student organizations, the university offers a vibrant campus community with opportunities for participation in sports, theatre, photography, and cultural groups.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Al Faisal University fosters a positive, fun, and friendly student culture. The university strives to create a welcoming environment and provide resources for student success, including:
Freshmen Orientation:
Helps new students acclimate to campus life.Study and Tutoring Sessions:
Provide academic support.Counseling Services:
Offer guidance and support.Job and Internship Fairs:
Connect students with career opportunities.Recreational Activities:
Promote well-being and social interaction.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
Recognized as one of the world's top 200 institutions under 50 years old, Al Faisal University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings.Small Class Sizes:
With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, students receive personalized attention and opportunities for interaction with faculty.World-Class Faculty:
The university boasts internationally acclaimed researchers and scholars who provide mentorship and guidance.Friendly Environment:
The university fosters a welcoming and supportive community.Centrally Located:
Situated in Riyadh, the university is accessible to major highways and the KFSHRC teaching hospital.Academic Programs:
The context does not provide specific details about the academic programs offered at Al Faisal University. However, it mentions that the university offers world-class undergraduate and graduate programs.
Other:
Entry Requirements:
- **Applicant must be a graduate of an allied health science program with majors in laboratory sciences.
- **The applicant must be registered and be appropriately classified with the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties ‘Mumaris’.
- **Other applicants planning to change their careers through this program may be considered by the program admission committee if they have similar or relevant backgrounds and are able to demonstrate strong interest in their applications.
- **A bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution accepted by MOE.
- **A satisfactory scholastic average - usually a minimum grade average of “very good” in the bachelor's degree.
- **If the applicant is a non-Saudi, then they should have an official residency (Iqama).
- **An interview with potential candidates will be conducted to learn more about their background, interests, and motivations. This may be done in-person or virtual.
- **The graduate study application must be accompanied by a nonrefundable application fee to Alfaisal University.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- If the candidate did not study their first degree in English, then they are expected to have English language proficiency with a minimum score as below:
- IELTS: Band score of at least 5.5
- TOEFL: Band score of at least 65
