Cytotechnology schools: Future outlook

Recent changes in the standard and guidelines governing the education of cytotechnologists herald in a new era of cytology education. The long-discussed move to master level education and name change of the professional to cytologist signifies an alignment with current and projected scope of mid-level diagnostic cytology practice. Cytotechnology programs going forward are charged with implementing curricular changes that prepare practitioners to perform tasks such as computer assisted screening, and cell block interpretation as well as to perform evidence-based research methods. Cytotechnology education programs are sure to face challenges particularly in student recruitment and the hiring of expert faculty. There are however opportunities for programs to develop innovative teaching techniques, recruit from underrepresented groups and collaborate to develop needed curricular resources. The future outlook for cytotechnology programs is that they are at a turning point, poised to educate the next generation of pathology extenders who will continue to be integral members of the patient care team.