Histotechnician Admissions Requirements

Requirements for admission to SUNY Cobleskill vary by academic program. All Liberal Arts and Science programs require solid preparation in English, mathematics and laboratory science.

The criteria for admittance into the AAS Histotechnician program are more stringent and more specific than general college admission. The criteria are shown below:

 

High School Graduates

• High School average >80
• NYS Math Regents sequential A and B (or equivalent)
  • Students should pass the courses with a grade of >80
  • Student should pass the Regents exams with a grade of >75
  • Student cannot place in remedial Mathematics
• NYS Regents Chemistry and Biology
  • Students should pass the courses with a grade of >80
  • Student should pass the Regents exams with a grade of >75
• Be prepared to start English at the college level
  Student cannot be placed in remedial English or Reading

 

High School Graduates Lacking Prerequisites

If one or more of the prerequisites is lacking or the GPA is below the acceptable standard, the student will need to take and pass the appropriate course(s) prior to entry. Alternatively, a student may decide to enter Cobleskill as an AS Science major until the entry requirements are completed. The SUNY Cobleskill student may apply for acceptance to full major status provided he/she has fulfilled the following:

• Completed all the required courses for entry
• Passed the math prerequisite(s) with a B- or better or permission of Program Director
• Passed the science prerequisitie(s) with a B- or better or permission of Program Director

 

Transfer Students

• A student may transfer up to a maximum of 33 college credits
• A 3.0 cumulative GPA is strongly recommended*
• Transfer of college level algebra or above is strongly recommended

If the maximum number of credits are transferred and the courses include one full year of biology with labs (4 credits) and one full year of chemistry with labs (4 credits), it may be possible to complete the program in one year.

*If a transfer student has a GPA below 3.0, the Admissions Office will contact the Program Director prior to admitting the student.

 

Non-Traditional Students

Most non-traditional students can follow the guidelines for high school or transfer students. Contact the Program Director if you have any additional questions.

 

Motor Skills and Visual Capabilities for All Applicants (strongly recommended)

Histotechnology is a field of work that utilizes a variety of motor skills and visual capabilities. It is advantageous to the student to have the ability to fulfill each of the tasks listed below. Limitations in any of these basic areas may limit his/her ability to fulfill the expected duties in a histology laboratory.

• An ability to accurately visualize all colors.
  Color blindness is serious liability.
• Good depth perception
• Well developed fine motor skills; Manual dexterity
• Good hand-eye coordination

A limitation in any of these skills presents distinct challenges and the applicant should talk with the Program Director.