Undergraduate Programs
Histotechnology
An educational program in histotechnology through the IU School of Medicine Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is located on the Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis campus. Courses are taught via distance education to students in qualifying histology laboratories around the United States.
Student Consumer Information About this Program 
Program Goals
The program’s goals have been developed within the mission of the Health Professions Programs in the School of Medicine. In an effort to provide theoretical background and the development of a high degree of occupational competence, the program has established the following goals:
- To provide students with the educational experiences necessary to enter a career as a histologic technician, to include entry-level competence and eligibility for the ASCP Board of Registry Histotechnician examination.
- To provide the nationwide health care community with individuals competent to conduct high-quality histologic procedures.
- To provide a curriculum containing a balance between technical knowledge and clinical competence gained in the histology laboratory setting.
- To assist students in reaching their goals by providing academic and occupational advising.
- To instill in students a lifelong desire to achieve professional and academic excellence.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of all standard academic requirements established for this program, the graduate is entitled to receive a Certificate in Histotechnology from Indiana University. By virtue of the standards required by this program, the graduate is eligible to take the Histotechnician Certification Examination administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology’s Board of Registry. The didactic and practical experience provided by the course of instruction should enable the graduate to accomplish the following objectives:
A. Technical Skill
- Perform procedures of basic histologic laboratory techniques, instrumentation, and problem solving at entry-level competency.
- Demonstrate knowledge of general and specific histologic methodology.
- Perform procedures with accuracy and precision.
- Monitor internal and external quality assurance measures.
- Demonstrate knowledge of operational principles of commonly used laboratory instruments, to include the ability to perform daily preventative maintenance and correct simple malfunctions.
- Exercise independent judgment regarding choice of procedure and evaluation of results.
- Organize tasks to cope with volume of work and unexpected demands.
B. Communication
- Communicate effectively with the clinical education supervisor and program director regarding curriculum and training courses.
- Effectively organize and present information both in written assignments and oral communication.
- Communicate effectively with other laboratory and health care providers.
C. Professional Behavior
- Display an attitude reflecting pride and professionalism in daily laboratory duties.
- Demonstrate adaptability, integrity, initiative, neatness, maturity, stability, and a desire for excellence.
Scholarships The American Society for Clinical Pathology, the National Society for Histotechnology, and several states' histology professional organizations sponsor scholarships for students in histotechnology. Other scholarship and financial aid opportunities may be available through the IUPUI Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
For further information, contact:
Debra Wood, M.S., Director
Phone: (317) 491-6311
E-mail: demwood@iupui.edu
Mailing Address:
IU School of Medicine Histotechnology Program
IU Health Pathology Laboratory, Room 6002A
350 W 11th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202-4108
Program Office Phone: (317) 491-6311
Last Updated: April 23, 2012