Perceptions of the impact of baccalaureate degrees for cytotechnologists

The purpose of this study was to ascertain differences in the perceptions of medical directors, education coordinators and cytotechnologists of the impact of baccalaureate degrees for cytotechnologists on (1) career mobility, (2) salaries, (3) professional status, and (4) changes in cytotechnology education. Questionnaries were mailed to all medical directors and education coordinators of active, accredited cytotechnology programs and to a random sampling of cytotechnologists. The responses were statistically analyzed by computer and supported the following conclusions: (1) Education coordinators and cytotechnologists generally perceive a greater impact of degrees than do medical directors. (2) Education coordinators perceive more impact on career mobility from degrees than do medical directors. (3) Medical directors perceive less impact from degrees on professional status than do the other two groups. (4) There was little difference in perceptions of the impact of degrees on salaries and changes in cytotechnology education. (5) Degrees are perceived to have more impact on career mobility than on salaries, professional status or changes in cytotechnology education.