Citotecnología

General Information

The cytotechnologist is the professional qualified to analyze cellular samples under the microscope in order to detect neoplastic cells before the patient shows obvious symptoms of malignant growth. In this way, the cytotechnologist contributes to the early detection of disease.

The Cythotechnology Program offered by the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus is a 12-month program requiring a total of thirty-eight (38) credit hours. Theoretical aspects are emphasized during the first six (6) months and supervised practice during the remaining six (6) months.

The program is designed to prepare health professional with specific competencies in cytotechnology. The student is provided with adequate experiences for the development of abilities and skills in management of a cytotechnology laboratory and in handling the necessary instruments and equipment.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to program must have completed a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts degree from an accredited college or university. Students who wish to be considered for admission must also meet the following requirements:
· Have a general grade point average of at least 2.50.
· Have a grade point average of at least 2.50 in science courses.

Present evidence of completion of the following courses or their equivalents:

Required Courses

· Interview with faculty members.
· Fluency in Spanish and knowledge and comprehension of English

*It is a highly recommended that applicants complete the following courses: Histology, Human Anatomy, Bacteriology, Physiology, Genetics, and Parasitology.

Graduation Requirements

In order to be recommended for graduation, students must:
· Obtain a minimum grade point average of 2.00 or higher in didactic courses and 3.00 or higher in the supervised practice.
· Satisfactorily complete the six (6) didactic courses and the supervised practice.
· Submit a research project related to the cytotechnology profession and present it (written and orally) to faculty members.
· Evaluate and interpret a minimum of sixty (60) cytological samples daily with ninety-five percent (95%) accuracy during the final practicum.
· To approve a comprehensive test offered by the program.
· To present evidence of the Board of Registry exam payment before July 31.

Curriculum

Total Semester Credit-Hours: 38
Professional Courses

Course Descriptions

(Please click here to download the course description in PDF format)

Informative Sheet

(Please click here to download the Informative Sheet of the Program)

Registration

In order to practice the profession in Puerto Rico, it is necessary to obtain the Certification offered by the American Society of Clinical Pathologist by the Board of Registry.

Accreditation

The Cytothecnology Program is currently accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

400 West 9th Street, Suite 201
Wilmington, DE 19801-1555
Phone 302-429-8802

Program Director & Educational Coordinator

Prof. Alma Camacho, SCT(ASCP) MBA
alma.camacho@upr.edu

Medical Director
Dr. María Marcos
maria.marcos@upr.edu

Faculty Members
Prof. Yadiris Lopez, CT (ASCP) MPh
yadiris.lopez1@upr.edu
x. 3572

Dr. Roberto Davila
roberto.davila@upr.edu
x. 1672

Physical Address

Office 608, Sixth Floor
School of Health Professions Building
Medical Sciences Campus, Medical Center
Monacillo Area Rio Piedras, PR

Telephones
Director - 758-2525, ext. 1162
Secretary - 758-2525, ext. 4503
Fax -756-3148

Mailing Address

Cytotechnology Program, Graduated Department
Medical Sciences Campus
University of Puerto Rico
PO Box 365067
San Juan PR, 00936-5067

 Last Modified: 05/10/2013