Program Overview

Master of Science in Cytology Program

The Master of Science in Cytology program prepares students for careers in diagnostic cytology and practice in a variety of laboratory settings. Students will develop knowledge and skill sets pertaining to cytology specimen screening and diagnostic interpretation, basic laboratory techniques, laboratory operations and management, application of companion technologies such as molecular testing, and demonstration of evidence-based medicine and professionalism.

Program Structure

The program is an accelerated dual degree program, allowing students to earn both their bachelor's and master's degrees in five years. Students begin their pre-professional education in the Health Sciences major, building strong skills in critical thinking and problem-solving through foundation courses in the sciences, psychology, and humanities.

Pre-Professional Curriculum

The pre-professional curriculum includes the following courses:

• Hallmarks Pathways Seminar
• Writing Seminar I
• Multimedia Communication
• Pre-Calculus/Intro to Calculus
• Topics in American Studies
• American Diversity
• Global Diversity
• Ethics
• Global Citizenship
• Contemporary Global Issues
• Integrative Seminar
• Philosophies of the Good Life
• Psychology
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Psychology Elective
• Health Sciences
  • Intro to the Health Professions
  • Intro to Healthcare
  • Applied Statistics
  • Health Sciences Elective
  • Medical Terminology
• Science
  • Biology I/Lab
  • Biology II/Lab
  • Anatomy & Physiology I/Lab
  • Anatomy & Physiology II/Lab
  • Microbiology/Lab
  • Chemistry I/Lab
  • Chemistry II/Lab
  • Science Elective
• Free Elective (3 credits)

Professional Phase

The professional phase of the program is delivered on the Center City campus. Students who meet all progression criteria are assured a seat in a Master of Science program. The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences & Biotechnology houses three degree programs, and students can choose from among three specialty areas:

• Biotechnology
• Cytology
• Medical Laboratory Science Each specialty area has a different range of courses and credits.

Admission Criteria

Matriculation requires a preferred 3.0 or higher overall GPA and science GPA. All grades must be C or higher, and AP credit is accepted for non-science courses only.

Degree Requirements

The BS in Health Sciences is granted after the first year of the professional program. The remaining courses in the professional program comprise the MS degree.