UNMC_Acronym_Vert_sm_4c
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Goals & Outcomes

Goals for the Diagnostic Cytology Program

The overall goal of the diagnostic cytology program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center is: “To prepare competent entry-level cytologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills) and affective (behavior) learning domains.”

Cognitive (knowledge) is addressed through the following:
  • Lectures
  • Reading assignments
  • Multi-headed microscope sessions
  • Individual microscope sessions
  • Class room assignments (case studies, vocabulary lists, etc.)
  • Written Exams
  • Image Exams
  • Screening Exams
  • Evaluations given by faculty
Psychomotor (skill) is addressed through the following:
  • Microscopic techniques
  • Screening techniques
  • Preparatory techniques
  • Practical exams
  • Slide screening exams
  • Attending patient procedures – (making preps at bedside)
  • Evaluations by faculty
Affective (behavior) is addressed through the following:
  • Students given policies for program
  • Ethics lecture
  • Professionalism lecture (guest speaker for UNMC)
  • Interaction with other health care professionals
  • Evaluation by clinical staff during practicum
  • Evaluations by faculty during didactic portion

Class of 2024 Achievements

  • Alpha Eta Honor Society – 1 student
  • Highest Distinction – 3 students
  • High Distinction – 1 student
  • Distinction – 2 students

ASCP Board of Certification Exam scores

Year

Pass Rate (UNMC)

Mean scaled scores

 
1st time Pass Rate
Within 1 year of Graduation
UNMC
National
2024 CT 100% NA 586 514
2024 SCT 89% - 569 572
2023 CT 100% N/A 543 515
2023 SCT 93% 93%* 547** 564**
2022 85.71% 92.85% 551 541


2024 Mean scaled scores were compared from Dec 1, 2024, to Jan 31, 2025.

*Within one year of graduation, graduate took CT exam on 2nd attempt and passed
**National data includes for 2023. UNMC data includes for 2023 and 2024.