To be eligible to apply for the Histology Technician Program, you must have verification of at least a cumulative 2.8 GPA on a 4.0 scale with a strong track record in biology and chemistry.

Applicants have two options to enter the program:

1. Earn an Associate of Science Histology Technician degree in partnership with Rochester Community and Technical College located in Rochester, Minnesota. Applicants complete 36 credits at RCTC and 24 credits at Mayo Clinic to complete their A.S. degree.
2. Enter the program with an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution with completed required prerequisite coursework.

Prerequisite coursework

In addition, applicants must have completed courses with a grade C or better in these areas:

It is also essential that applicants have basic computer skills to meet the demands of the online curriculum.

Essential functions

Allied health education requires that the accumulation of scientific knowledge be accompanied by the simultaneous acquisition of essential skills and professional attitudes and behavior. Further, the program must ensure that patients are not placed in jeopardy by students with impaired intellectual, physical, or emotional functions. Therefore, admission to the Histology Technician program is offered only to those applicants who meet qualifications for education and training in the art and science of histotechnology.

To preserve the welfare of students and patients, the program has established minimum standards deemed essential for practicing in the field of histotechnology. Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the profession and meet the standards of the curriculum. Applicants seeking exceptions to these standards or reasonable accommodations should initiate their request with the program director at least six weeks before the program begins. The following are examples of essential functions required of the program. The student must be able to:

• Execute fine motor skills, steady hand function, and hand-eye coordination to efficiently perform skills in laboratory procedures
• Visualize specimens through a microscope
• Identify tissue elements and distinguish colors
• Tolerate smells associated with tissue and chemicals
• Tolerate sights such as whole-body organs, human or animal tissue samples, blood, and mucous
• Perform repetitive movements
• Comprehend three‐dimensional, spatial, and structural relationships
• Demonstrate strong professional attributes
• Manage their time, organize workload, and meet deadlines

See a complete listing of essential functions required by the Histology Technician Program.

Additional admissions criteria

Advanced placement – The program does not offer advanced placement.

Transfer of credits – The program does not accept transfer credit.

Experiential learning – Employees of Mayo Clinic Rochester who are currently employed as a HistoTech Assistant (HTA), may have the opportunity to perform some histology related tasks (e.g., embedding, microtomy) ahead of program entry. This on-the-job training opportunity may reduce the number of clinical hours necessary to gain competency in these skill sets. Documentation of clinical hours worked as a HTA must be submitted for review prior to starting the program. Successful completion of program clinical course competencies is also required to reduce clinical hours within the program.

How can I improve my chances of being admitted?

Admission requirements meet three goals: applicants must show academic potential, demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, and be aware of the role of a histology technician.

Applicants who showcase the following qualities will be considered best suited for success in the Histology Technician program. Evidence of these qualities is not required but rather preferred by the selection committee.

• Strong manual dexterity. Evidence of the ability to use one’s hands to skillfully manipulate objects and perform intricate tasks in a precise and accurate manner.  
• Attention to detail. Evidence of the ability to focus on all areas of a task, no matter how small, and produce quality work free of mistakes or discrepancies.
• Curiosity. Evidence of a natural desire to discover new information or learn a new skill.
• Problem solving skills. Evidence of the ability to identify problems, determine appropriate solutions, and implement effective action plans.
• Professionalism. Evidence of consistently exhibiting behavior that reflects integrity, ethical conduct, and respect for others in professional settings.
• Time management. Evidence of careful planning and controlling time spent on specific tasks to increase efficiency and balance various activities related to school, work, social life, family, hobbies, and commitments.
• Resilience. Evidence of success despite challenging circumstances or unexpected obstacles beyond one’s control.
• Responsibility. Evidence of reliability and trustworthiness in completing tasks and meeting deadlines.
• Commitment to practice locally. Resident of communities served by Mayo Clinic.