Top 11 Histotechnologist Certifications

Certifications are important for a histotechnologist in the job market as they demonstrate that an individual has achieved a certain level of competency and proficiency in their profession. A certification can also help a histotechnologist gain more employment opportunities, higher wages, and increased job security. Certification also serves as a way to validate that the histotechnologist has acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to perform vital tasks in the laboratory setting. With certification, employers can be assured that their employees have the ability to effectively handle challenging situations with accuracy and precision.

This article reviews the top certifications for Histotechnologists and explains how they can help to further a histotechnologist's career.

What are Histotechnologist Certifications?

Histotechnologist certification is a professional recognition earned by individuals who have completed a program of study in histology, the science of preparing and examining tissue samples for microscopic examination. This certification indicates that an individual has acquired the necessary skills to work in a laboratory setting, as well as possess knowledge of related laboratory procedures.

The certification process involves the successful completion of both written and practical tests. The written test covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, pathology, immunology, histochemistry, and safety protocols. The practical test requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to accurately prepare tissue specimens for microscopic examination.

Having this certification can help individuals gain employment opportunities within the field of histology and provide them with an advantage when competing with other applicants for jobs. It also allows employers to have confidence in an individual’s knowledge and skill set when hiring them for positions requiring histological expertise. Additionally, earning this certification can open up new career paths or advancement opportunities within the field. With this certification, individuals are able to expand their understanding of histology and develop specialized skills that can be used in different areas of healthcare-related research or medical practice.

Pro tip: When studying for histotechnologist certification, make sure to focus on the specific requirements of your state or region. Different states may have different requirements for licensing and certifications, so it's important to research the exact requirements before you start studying.

Related: What does a Histotechnologist do?

Top 11 Histotechnologist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Histotechnologists today.

1. American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnologist Certification

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnologist Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of histotechnology. Histotechnologists are responsible for preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination by pathologists.

To become certified, an individual must meet certain educational and experience requirements, then successfully pass the ASCP Histotechnologist Certification Examination. The exam is offered twice a year and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. To prepare for the exam, applicants should review their education materials as well as study guides and practice tests provided by the ASCP.

The process typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on how quickly you can complete the educational and experience requirements. The cost of the exam is $195 for members of ASCP or $245 for non-members.

2. National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) Histotechnologist Certification

The National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) Histotechnologist Certification is a certification program that recognizes the professional competency of histotechnologists. Histotechnologists are laboratory personnel who prepare and examine tissue samples for microscopic examination. This certification is designed to assess an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of histotechnology, and it provides employers with assurance that certified individuals possess the necessary qualifications to perform their duties.

To obtain NCA Histotechnologist Certification, applicants must first meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have a minimum of an Associate's degree in histotechnology or a related field from an accredited college or university, or they must have at least three years of full-time experience as a histotechnologist in a laboratory setting within the past five years. In addition, applicants must pass both a written and practical exam administered by NCA.

The written exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as specimen handling, tissue processing, staining techniques, safety practices, quality control procedures, and medical terminology. The practical exam consists of 10 laboratory-based tasks that test the applicant’s ability to perform basic histology techniques. Both exams are offered twice each year at designated testing sites throughout the United States.

It typically takes four to six weeks to receive your results after taking the exams. If you pass both exams, you will be awarded NCA Histotechnologist Certification and will receive a certificate valid for five years from the date of issuance. After five years, you must renew your certification by submitting proof of continuing education credits or retaking the exams if necessary.

The cost for NCA Histotechnologist Certification varies depending on whether you are taking only one exam or both exams together; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD total.

3. American Medical Technologists (AMT) Histotechnologist Certification

American Medical Technologists (AMT) Histotechnologist Certification is a professional certification for histotechnologists who have met the educational and experience requirements of the American Medical Technologists organization. The certification is designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform histological procedures in a laboratory setting.

The AMT Histotechnologist Certification requires applicants to have a minimum of an associate degree in histotechnology or a related field, as well as at least one year of full-time experience in histology. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by AMT. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, laboratory safety, quality assurance, and specimen processing.

It typically takes around four months to complete the application process and obtain certification from AMT. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with official transcripts from their college or university and proof of their work experience. Once these documents are received and reviewed by AMT, applicants will be notified if they are eligible to take the exam.

The cost for AMT Histotechnologist Certification varies depending on whether you are already an AMT member or not. For non-members, the cost is $225 plus any applicable taxes; for members it is $175 plus any applicable taxes.

4. National Society for Histotechnology (NSH) Certified Histotechnician (CHT) Certification

The National Society for Histotechnology (NSH) Certified Histotechnician (CHT) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to practice histotechnology. This certification is designed to promote excellence in the field of histotechnology and to provide employers with assurance of an individual's competency.

To become certified, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of full-time experience in histology or related disciplines, or one year of full-time experience plus completion of an accredited histology program. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive written examination.

The CHT exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, laboratory safety and quality control, tissue processing and embedding techniques, sectioning techniques, staining procedures, immunohistochemistry techniques, special stains and cytology techniques. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the CHT exam is $350 for NSH members and $450 for non-members. The cost includes the application fee as well as the exam fee. Once you have passed the exam your certification will be valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

5. American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certified Histotechnologist (CHS) Certification

The American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certified Histotechnologist (CHS) Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in histology. The CHS certification is open to any individual with a minimum of two years of experience in histological laboratory practice.

To become certified, applicants must pass the AAB CHS exam, which consists of both written and practical components. The written portion covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, histological techniques, safety and quality assurance, and specimen handling. The practical component requires the applicant to demonstrate proficiency in performing various histological techniques.

The exam can be taken at any approved testing center throughout the United States. It typically takes about three to four hours to complete the entire exam.

The cost for taking the AAB CHS exam is $400 USD for members of AAB and $500 USD for non-members. In addition, there is an annual fee for maintaining certification which is currently set at $50 USD per year for members and $60 USD per year for non-members.

Overall, becoming an AAB Certified Histotechnologist requires dedication and hard work but provides recognition that you are among the top professionals in your field.

6. International Academy of Cytology and Histotechnology (IACH) Certified Histotechnologist (CHT) Certification

The International Academy of Cytology and Histotechnology (IACH) Certified Histotechnologist (CHT) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of histotechnologists. The certification is awarded by the IACH upon successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

To be eligible for the CHT certification, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in histotechnology or a related field and must have completed an accredited histotechnology program or have equivalent education and experience. Applicants must also submit an application packet that includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.

The CHT exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, grossing techniques, laboratory safety, quality assurance/quality control procedures, and regulatory compliance. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to apply for the CHT certification is $225 USD for IACH members ($275 USD for non-members). This fee covers the cost of processing the application packet as well as taking the exam. If you pass the exam, you will receive your CHT certificate within two weeks after passing.

7. Clinical Laboratory Management Association (CLMA) Certified Histotechnician (CHT) Certification

The Clinical Laboratory Management Association (CLMA) Certified Histotechnician (CHT) Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of histotechnicians. Histotechnicians are laboratory professionals who prepare tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists. The CHT certification is a voluntary credential offered by CLMA to demonstrate the competency of histotechnicians in the areas of specimen processing and handling, slide preparation, staining techniques, quality control, safety protocols, and other related topics.

In order to qualify for the CHT certification, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience as a histotechnician or equivalent experience in a related field. They must also pass an exam administered by CLMA. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as specimen collection and processing, slide preparation and staining techniques, quality control measures, safety protocols, and more.

The cost to take the CHT exam is $395 for members of CLMA and $495 for non-members. It typically takes four to six weeks to receive results from the exam. Once an applicant has passed the exam they will receive their official CHT certificate within four to six weeks after passing the exam.

8. Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist in Histology/Cytology Specialty

The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist in Histology/Cytology Specialty (CMTC-H/C) is a certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of medical laboratory technologists who specialize in histology and cytology. The CMTC-H/C designation is a voluntary professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence and dedication to their profession.

It takes approximately two years to complete the requirements for the CMTC-H/C designation. To become certified, individuals must have completed a recognized medical laboratory technology program, have at least one year of full-time experience in histology or cytology, and successfully pass both written and practical examinations administered by the CSMLS.

In order to apply for the CMTC-H/C designation, individuals must first become members of the CSMLS. Membership fees vary depending on whether you are applying as a student or as a practicing technologist. Once you have submitted your application and paid your membership fee, you can then register for the written and practical examinations.

The cost of applying for the CMTC-H/C designation varies depending on whether you are taking both exams or just one exam at a time. If you are taking both exams at once, it will cost $550 CAD plus applicable taxes; if you are taking one exam at a time, it will cost $275 CAD plus applicable taxes per exam.

9. The American Registry of Pathology Board of Registry in Cytotechnology

The American Registry of Pathology (ARP) Board of Registry in Cytotechnology is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have met the educational and professional requirements to practice as a cytotechnologist. This certification serves to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and expertise of those who are engaged in the practice of cytotechnology.

In order to become certified by the ARP Board of Registry in Cytotechnology, an individual must meet certain educational and professional criteria. This includes having a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and/or physics; completion of an approved cytotechnology program; and at least one year of full-time experience as a practicing cytotechnologist.

The process for obtaining certification typically takes about four months from start to finish. The first step is to complete an application form and submit it along with all required documentation (e.g., transcripts, letters of recommendation) to the ARP Board of Registry office. Once the application has been reviewed and approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the examination. After passing the exam, applicants will be issued their certificate by mail.

The cost for certification through the ARP Board of Registry in Cytotechnology is $350 USD. This fee covers both the application fee and examination fee.

10. The American Registry of Pathology Board of Registry in Molecular Genetic Pathology

The American Registry of Pathology (ARP) Board of Registry in Molecular Genetic Pathology is a program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of those who practice molecular genetic pathology. This program is intended for individuals who have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to interpret and report on molecular genetic tests. The ARP Board of Registry in Molecular Genetic Pathology is an independent, non-profit organization that provides certification for qualified professionals.

To obtain certification from the ARP Board of Registry in Molecular Genetic Pathology, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include: having a doctoral degree in pathology or a related field; completion of an approved laboratory training program; at least two years of clinical experience in molecular genetic pathology; and passing a written examination.

The process typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the applicant's individual circumstances. Applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of clinical experience. After submitting their application materials, applicants will be invited to take the written examination. Once they pass the exam, they will be awarded their certification from the ARP Board of Registry in Molecular Genetic Pathology.

The cost for applying for certification from the ARP Board of Registry in Molecular Genetic Pathology varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ARP. For members, it costs $200 USD while for non-members it costs $400 USD.

11. The American Registry of Pathology Board of Registry in Anatomic Pathology

The American Registry of Pathology Board of Registry in Anatomic Pathology (ARP-BORAP) is a voluntary certification program for individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of anatomic pathology. This certification is provided by the American Board of Pathology, which is an independent organization that works to ensure the highest standards of practice in pathology.

To obtain ARP-BORAP certification, individuals must pass an examination and meet certain educational requirements. The examination consists of three parts: a written test, an oral exam, and a practical assessment. The written test covers topics such as general pathology, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, cytopathology, molecular diagnostics, and laboratory management. The oral exam focuses on communication skills and clinical reasoning. Finally, the practical assessment evaluates laboratory skills such as tissue processing and slide preparation.

The process to obtain ARP-BORAP certification typically takes 6-12 months to complete. During this time period, individuals must complete all necessary coursework and examinations before submitting their application for review by the American Board of Pathology. Once approved, individuals will receive their certificate from the board and can begin practicing as certified anatomic pathologists.

The cost to obtain ARP-BORAP certification varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD. This fee covers both the examination fees and any additional coursework or materials required for completion of the program.

Do You Really Need a Histotechnologist Certificate?

Yes, a histotechnologist certificate is absolutely necessary for anyone who wishes to work in the field of histology. Histology is the study of tissue and cells, and it is an important tool in medical diagnosis and research. A histotechnologist plays a vital role in helping doctors diagnose diseases, as they are responsible for preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination.

Having a histotechnologist certificate indicates to employers that you have the knowledge and skills required to do this work. It shows that you understand the importance of precise laboratory techniques, safety protocols, and quality control standards when handling specimens. Your certification also proves that you have been trained to prepare tissue samples correctly so that physicians can accurately diagnose diseases.

Without a histotechnologist certificate, it would be very difficult for someone to find employment as a histotechnologist. Employers often require proof of certification before hiring someone for this position, as it provides reassurance that the applicant has the necessary skills and knowledge to do the job properly.

In addition to providing job security, having a histotechnologist certificate also makes it easier for professionals in this field to stay current on new developments in their area of expertise. As technology advances, new methods become available for processing tissue specimens; having a certification ensures that you are up-to-date with these changes so that your work remains accurate and reliable.

Overall, obtaining a histotechnologist certificate is essential if you wish to pursue a career in this field. With this credential under your belt, you will be able to demonstrate your qualifications to potential employers and stay abreast of new technologies in your field.

Related: Histotechnologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Histotechnologist Certifications

FAQ 1: What is a Histotechnologist Certification?

Answer: A Histotechnologist Certification is a credential that validates the expertise of a histotechnologist. The certification demonstrates that the individual has met the necessary education and experience requirements to work in the field. It also serves as an indication of professional competence and qualification for employers.

FAQ 2: How do I become certified as a Histotechnologist?

Answer: To become certified as a Histotechnologist, you must first complete an accredited histology training program or equivalent coursework. After completing your training, you must pass the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification examination to earn your certification.

FAQ 3: How long does it take to get certified as a Histotechnologist?

Answer: It typically takes about two years to complete the necessary education and training requirements to become certified as a Histotechnologist. This includes completing an accredited histology training program or equivalent coursework, and then passing the ASCP Board of Certification examination.

FAQ 4: How much does it cost to get certified as a Histotechnologist?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified as a Histotechnologist varies depending on which program you choose, but typically ranges between $1,000-$2,000 US dollars. This includes costs such as tuition fees, books and other materials, exam fees, and any other associated costs with taking classes or studying for exams.

FAQ 5: Is it worth getting certified as a Histotechnologist?

Answer: Yes! Becoming certified can give you an edge in the job market by demonstrating your knowledge and competency in this specialized field. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have earned their certification due to its reputation for quality assurance standards in healthcare professions.