Cytotechnology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Cytotechnology is a specialized field focused on the microscopic analysis of human cells to identify early signs of disease, particularly cancer. Professionals in this discipline play a critical role in diagnostic pathology by examining cellular changes that may signal abnormal or precancerous conditions. The program equips students with the technical and scientific expertise needed to support accurate, timely diagnoses.
- Microscopy and Cellular Analysis: Mastery of high-resolution imaging techniques to examine cellular morphology and detect subtle abnormalities in tissue samples.
- Slide Preparation and Staining Techniques: Hands-on training in creating high-quality cytological slides using precise methods to preserve cellular detail for analysis.
- Cellular Structure and Abnormality Identification: In-depth study of normal and pathological cellular components, enabling accurate recognition of atypical or malignant cell patterns.
- Applied Mathematics in Diagnostics: Use of quantitative methods to interpret cellular data, support statistical analysis, and improve diagnostic consistency.
- Pathology and Disease Detection: Integration of knowledge in disease mechanisms to correlate cellular changes with clinical outcomes and potential diagnoses.
- Microbiology and Biochemistry Foundations: Understanding of cellular metabolism, infectious agents, and biochemical processes that influence cell behavior and pathology.
- Laboratory Safety and Quality Control: Comprehensive training in biosafety protocols, regulatory standards, and procedures to ensure accuracy and integrity in diagnostic testing.
Cytotechnology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Cytotechnology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Cytotechnology degrees, including Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 229,720 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1071 | $105,620 | $51,760 - $239,200 | 229,720 | N/A |
Cytotechnology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $48,090 in Hawaii to $178,830 in Arkansas—a 272% difference. The highest-paying states include Arkansas, District of Columbia, and Utah. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 229,720 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Cytotechnology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 16 institutions offering Cytotechnology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Cytotechnology is found at University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) (30 graduates), Southwest Wisconsin Technical College (Southwest Tech) (16 graduates), Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) (12 graduates), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (MD Anderson) (10 graduates), and Indiana University (IU Indianapolis), Indianapolis (7 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 127 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Cytotechnology programs
How much can I earn with a Cytotechnology degree?
Salaries for Cytotechnology graduates vary by role and location. Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $105,620 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Arkansas average $178,830 compared to $48,090 in Hawaii. Approximately 229,720 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Cytotechnology programs?
Currently 16 accredited institutions offer Cytotechnology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) (30 graduates), Southwest Wisconsin Technical College (Southwest Tech) (16 graduates), and Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) (12 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Cytotechnology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 117 in 2010 to 127 in 2023-24. This represents a 9% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Cytotechnology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary. Related occupations employ approximately 229,720 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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