Cytogenetics Technologist

To be a successful Cytogenetics Technologist you should…

• show accuracy and attention to detail
• be a problem-solver
• like challenge and responsibility
• be able to work independently with little supervision

What will my job be like?

Cytogenetics technologists study the relationship of abnormalities in human chromosomes to birth defects, physical and mental abnormalities, infertility and spontaneous abortions, and diseases like cancer. They prepare slides of cell samples for examination, and must be able to recognize abnormalities in the color, size, shape, make-up, and patterns of the cells.

Where could I work?

Cytogenetics technologists have a wide choice of practice settings. Hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, and industry currently have positions open for qualified Cytogenetics technologists.

What is the average annual salary?

$54,200

What is the future of this career?

The BLS reports that employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 25,900 openings for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

Cytogenetics technologists must complete four years of formal education leading to a Bachelor of Science, followed by a clinical cytotechnology program, which normally lasts from one to two years.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• University of Connecticut – School of Allied Health, Storrs
• Yale University, New Haven

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut. Prerequisite: The Board of Registry of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists gives a national certification exam. Students take this exam after meeting their academic and laboratory education requirements. Those who pass the exam for cytotechnology may use the initials CT (ASCP) after their name to show they are proficient in their field.

Where can I get more information?