Master of Science in Cytology and Bioscience
Faculty listed on the web at http://www.musc.edu/chp/about/faculty_staff.htm

The Master of Science in Cytology and Bioscience (MCB) degree is an innovative program designed to prepare graduates for professional practice, laboratory administration, and applied research. Unique in design and future oriented in concept, this entry level master’s degree program promotes the pursuit of scholarship and advancement of knowledge, and encourages a lifetime commitment to learning and contributing to the profession and the community.

The program, beginning in August of each year, is a 3+2 educational model requiring 90 semester hours of prerequisites followed by five consecutive semesters of professional courses at the Medical University. Instruction during the first three semesters concentrates on cytotechnology courses, research, and statistics. Professional practice in laboratories throughout South Carolina is integrated with academic studies during the third semester. The focus of the last two semesters of the program is the study and practice of molecular techniques and applied research. Upon satisfactory completion of the program, a Master of Science degree in Cytology and Bioscience is awarded.

This program will be closing May 2009.

Graduates are prepared for traditional clinical service in diagnostic cytology and supervisory roles in addition to new and expanded roles that include molecular testing; consulting with physicians and other health care providers regarding test utilization and interpretation; and insuring compliance with all regulatory agencies and researching and assessing novel cancer detection strategies. Medical laboratories, public health agencies, regulatory agencies, and higher education institutions are typical facilities that provide employment opportunities. Many of our graduates are employed by medical companies and are integral to the development of new laboratory testing. Graduates choosing to continue their education should find that a professional degree from the Medical University affords them a competitive position for acceptance into doctoral, medical, and dental programs.

During the first three semesters of this curriculum, knowledge and skills required of a nationally certified cytotechnologist are obtained. Through microscopic evaluation, the cytotechnologist plays a vital role in the diagnosis of pre-malignant and malignant tumors from all of the body organs, including, but not limited to gynecological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, body cavities, urinary, and breast. Cytotechnologists also prepare and diagnose fine needle aspirations from tumors in other organs such as lymph nodes, salivary glands, thyroid, liver, and pancreas. Graduates are proficient in performing and interpreting laboratory analyses; correlating findings with other medical data; investigating and solving discrepancies; and developing and assessing quality assurance measures.

Upon successful completion of the first three semesters of the curriculum, students are eligible to take a national certifying examination provided that (1) a baccalaureate or higher degree was earned prior to entry or (2) a baccalaureate degree is awarded by the student’s home institution through a previous, formal agreement with MUSC. If neither provision is applicable, eligibility requirements will be met upon completion of the MCB degree.

Accreditation
The professional component of the cytotechnology option, completed during the first three semesters of the curriculum, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 35 East Wacker Dr., Suite 1970, Chicago, Illinois 60601-2208, telephone (312) 553-9355.