Histology Technician

Explore This Path

Perfect for those fascinated by the microscopic world of human tissues.
Play a crucial role in diagnosing diseases and advancing medical research.
Transform tiny tissue samples into diagnostic masterpieces.

💰 Earn $50K-$86K

📚 Associate Degree

⏱️ 12–24 MONTH TRAINING

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What You’ll Do

Prepare histological slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by pathologists. May assist with research studies.

Archive diagnostic material, such as histologic slides and blocks.
Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.
Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks, or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.
Freeze tissue specimens.
Maintain laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, mass spectrometers, microtomes, immunostainers, tissue processors, embedding centers, and water baths.

Scoop

Minimum Education

Associate Degree

Career Prospects

Excellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time

1 to 2 years

Median Earnings

$66,610 in California

$60,780 Nationally

$25K

$50K

$75K

$100K

$125K

$150K

$175K

$200K

$225K

$250K

Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

Active Listening
Reading Comprehension
Service Orientation
Social Perceptiveness
Speaking
Writing

You value 🙏

Having support
Having freedom
Personal relationships

Deep Dive

Histology Technician

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Vocational School

A vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years

Workforce Development Program

A workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ FINISH IN 2-5 years

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 2-3 years