Histotechnology Credit Program

Program Philosophy and Goals

The Science Laboratory Technology program at Harford Community College is designed and dedicated to providing training in both the theory and practice of laboratory techniques. The curriculum is designed to provide skilled technicians to meet the needs of industry, government facilities, public health agencies, and research institutions in Harford County, the Baltimore metropolitan area, and the State of Maryland.

In order to meet the needs for trained histotechnologists in Harford County and the State of Maryland, the Histotechnology option to the Science Laboratory Technology program was developed and accredited in 1980. This option provides both the classroom and clinical experiences necessary to the graduate with the skills needed to enter the workforce as a qualified Histotechnican. Upon successful completion of the program, the student receives an A.A.S. Degree in Science Laboratory Technology; Histotechnology Option, and is eligible to take the National Registry Examination for certification in histotechnology.

Program Objectives

The career component of the histotechnology program prepares students for immediate employment in a histology laboratory. Additionally, upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to take the histologic technician certification examination

administered by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.

Technical

The student will:

• Demonstrate the ability to read and follow directions.
• Perform, compute, and interpret laboratory mathematical calculations and graphs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the operational principles and components of commonly used laboratory equipment.
• Apply the principles of fixation, decalcification, dehydration, clearing, and infiltration to the successful processing of tissues.
• Perform proper embedding and sectioning of processed tissue specimens.
• Accurately prepare solutions and stains using the concepts of chemistry and mathematics.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the theory of staining techniques by successfully preparing tissues using routine and special staining procedures.
• Monitor internal and external quality assurance measures.

Professional Behavior objectives

The student will:

• Display an attitude reflecting pride and professionalism in daily laboratory duties.
• Demonstrate adaptability, integrity, initiative, neatness, maturity, stability, and a desire for excellence.

Communication Objectives

The student will:

• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing with the clinical instructor, program administrators and health care providers.
• Organize and present information in written assignments and oral communication.