Online Master of Science in Cytology
Are you passionate about playing a role in diagnosing diseases early, such as cancer? Earn a Master of Science in cytology online from Arizona State University to transform your career in the medical laboratory science field. In this program, you’ll gain an understanding of the body systems, cell collection techniques, digital pathology, advanced diagnostics and laboratory operations. Pending program accreditation, graduates will be eligible to sit for the certification exam for cytologists.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 15
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 44
Earn the master’s you need for cytology certification
This master’s in cytology has a curriculum designed to prepare you for a career as a cytologist, formerly known as cytotechnologist. Integral to pursuing this career path is passing the necessary certification exam. Upon graduating and pending program accreditation, you’ll be eligible to sit for the exam. Then, when you pass, you’ll be recognized as a CT(ASCP) – certified cytologist.
This program is a good fit for medical laboratory technicians and scientists interested in collecting and studying cells from the body to detect signs of disease. To be admitted, you must be able to attend in-person practicum experiences within a cytology laboratory. Your employer, ideally a clinical laboratory within a health care system, must agree to supervise your cytology practicum. Additionally, while not required, an undergraduate background in biology, chemistry or medical laboratory science is optimal.
The skills you’ll develop
In this specialized master’s program, you’ll develop the skills to help doctors and scientists make quicker, more accurate diagnoses and improve patient care. Through coursework and hands-on experiences in your employer’s cytology lab, you’ll build industry skills in cellular analysis and diagnostics, fine needle aspiration, digital and molecular diagnostics, and cytopathology. You’ll also gain experience in laboratory operations and management, microscopic slide screening and cytology techniques, companion diagnostics and more.
Additionally, you’ll graduate with professional skills ideal for leadership roles. For example, you’ll have the refined critical thinking abilities to analyze complex data, identify patterns and make informed decisions in clinical and research settings. You’ll also be able to handle laboratory samples with precision, manage projects from start to finish, communicate complex scientific findings to various stakeholders and more. Graduates are adaptable and versatile, capable of working in health care settings from hospitals to research settings, and prepared for future innovations in the field.
Professional licensure and certification
ASU’s academic programs are designed to prepare students to apply for applicable licensure or certification in Arizona. Completing an ASU program may not meet the education requirements for licensure or certification in another state. If you plan to pursue professional licensure or certification in a state other than Arizona, we recommend you visit our professional licensure page for the contact information of the appropriate licensing entity to seek information and guidance on the requirements.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Cytology master’s courses
This program includes foundational courses and an in-person practicum to apply what you have learned. Key topics include fine needle aspiration, effusion cytology, microscopic evaluation and cytology related to body systems. To culminate the program, you’ll complete a non-credit-bearing portfolio of examples of your work and written components demonstrating your knowledge.
Cytologist and more: The jobs you’ll be prepared for
This master’s in cytology is a step toward pursuing a career as a certified cytologist. Beyond working as a CT(ASCP), you can pursue other various career paths. Graduates are excellent candidates for jobs in biomedical science, medical technology, molecular biology and diagnostics, quality control and more. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Learn from leading industry experts in cytology
The College of Health Solutions faculty displays a high level of research expertise, focused on creating a better future for all. Our faculty are lifelong learners dedicated to improving health outcomes for the communities we serve. Many are also active in national professional societies to enhance cytology and pathology practice. Some of our research focuses on:
- Developing cancer biomarkers from small, minimally invasive samples, including blood and other body fluids.
- Discovering the impact of the environment and policy on food security and community health.
- Exploring mechanisms involved in the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
- Harnessing big data to improve patient outcomes.
- Improving cytology diagnosis through diagnostic terminology standardization.
- Incorporating advanced technology to monitor and promote healthy lifestyles.
- Using machine learning algorithms to improve cytology screening and diagnosis.
- Using state-of-the-art cognitive, behavioral and neuroscience techniques to study the components of human communication.
Learn from leading industry experts in cytology
The College of Health Solutions faculty displays a high level of research expertise, focused on creating a better future for all. Our faculty are lifelong learners dedicated to improving health outcomes for the communities we serve. Many are also active in national professional societies to enhance cytology and pathology practice. Some of our research focuses on:
- Developing cancer biomarkers from small, minimally invasive samples, including blood and other body fluids.
- Discovering the impact of the environment and policy on food security and community health.
- Exploring mechanisms involved in the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
- Harnessing big data to improve patient outcomes.
- Improving cytology diagnosis through diagnostic terminology standardization.
- Incorporating advanced technology to monitor and promote healthy lifestyles.
- Using machine learning algorithms to improve cytology screening and diagnosis.
- Using state-of-the-art cognitive, behavioral and neuroscience techniques to study the components of human communication.
How to apply
Applicants to the Master of Science in cytology program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Health Solutions.
Developing tomorrow’s health workforce
In the College of Health Solutions, students learn and prepare to become the health workforce of the future. Faculty and students also collaborate to research solutions to pressing global health challenges. Partnerships with the medical community offer students access to professional resources and networking opportunities with Mayo Clinic, Banner Health, HonorHealth, Dignity Health and more.
6,500+
students.
250+
Barrett honors scholars.
160+
faculty members.
$14.5 million
in research expenditures.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
