Program Description
ABOUT THE PROFESSION
Histotechnologists play a critical role in modern healthcare by supporting the diagnosis and study of disease through the preparation and staining of tissue specimens. Core responsibilities include tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and the performance of special stains. In many laboratories, histotechnologists also support advanced techniques such as immunohistochemistry (IHC), enzyme histochemistry, and other specialized methods that assist pathologists and clinicians in patient care.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The HTDCGA Histotechnology Training Program is designed to develop a generation of highly skilled, ethical, and career-ready histotechnologists through structured education and hands-on technical training. Our mission is to provide learners with an inclusive learning environment grounded in excellence, integrity, safety, and continuous improvement in laboratory medicine.
This program prepares students with the foundational knowledge, critical thinking ability, and technical proficiency needed to succeed in the field of histotechnology. HTDCGA is committed to supporting student growth through instruction that emphasizes professional behavior, quality practices, and lifelong learning—ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to laboratory operations and to the healthcare system as a whole.
Detailed information about the program mission, goals, academic expectations, professional conduct standards, and completion requirements is provided in the Program Handbook.
Program Structure
The program is 12 months in length, beginning in April and concluding in March. It is offered in one format: on-site (in-person) with partially online. Each year, HTDCGA admits up to six students into the program.
All students complete introductory coursework covering core topics such as anatomy and physiology, laboratory mathematics, safety, and instrumentation prior to progressing into profession-specific histotechnology instruction and clinical rotations. Course descriptions and program sequencing are outlined in the Program Handbook.
Format
Students completing the on-site option participate in the full program at the HTDCGA training location and designated training laboratories. Lectures, skills labs, and clinical training occur in person. Students complete a minimum of 20 class room hours and clinical rotation hours per week, with additional practice and competency requirements as determined by the training plan.
Accreditation
The HTDCGA Histotechnology Training Program is committed to meeting national educational standards and quality benchmarks for workforce development programs. HTDCGA intends to pursue accreditation through the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) in accordance with eligibility requirements and program readiness milestones.
More information about NAACLS may be found at www.naacls.org.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must possess a minimum Associate’s degree with at least 12 total semester credit hours in biology and chemistry and 12 hours in any medical laboratory related course not including physics or math, with coursework completed in both disciplines. Applicants must also have a minimum 2.5 overall GPA and a 2.5 science GPA or higher (biology and chemistry).
HTDCGA may also establish academic affiliations to support students seeking structured pathways into the profession, including partnership arrangements that allow students to complete prerequisite coursework through participating institutions prior to formal program enrollment.
Application Process
Applications are accepted from the first Monday in January through the second Friday of September.
A complete application includes:
- Official transcripts
- A personal statement
- A current resume
- Three professional or academic references (letters of recommendation optional)
Applicants who meet the minimum requirements related to coursework and GPA will be invited to participate in an interview (virtual or in person) with the Program Director and HTDCGA representatives. Selection decisions are based on applicant preparedness, professionalism, communication skills, commitment to the profession, and program fit. Additional details regarding candidate review and selection criteria are included in the Program Handbook.
Tuition and Fees
Histotechnology Program 2025–2026 Estimated Tuition & Fees*
Item
Amount
Tuition $6,000
Enrollment Deposit -$250
Student Activity Fee $150
Technology Fee $250
Lifetime Transcript Fee $30
Background Check $40
Professional Liability Insurance $200
Graduation Fee $50
Estimated TOTAL $6,725
* This table includes estimated fees payable to HTDCGA. Please refer to the Program Handbook for additional costs that may be payable to third parties, as well as detailed information regarding withdrawal and refund policies.