This program, leading to the Bachelors of Science degree is designed to prepare candidates to function as anatomic pathologists' assistants. It is a co-operative program utilizing the facilities of Wayne State University,The Detroit Medical Center hospitals, Sinai, Oakwood and Crittenton hospitals, and the offices of the county medical examiners. The curriculum encompasses multidisciplinary didactic and clinical experiences. Upon selection and admission to the professional program, the student will take course work, then engage in an assigned series of clinical contacts to prepare the trainee for employment in a variety of settings.

*This is a competitive program. Separate applications must be made to the University and to the Department. Deadlines are strictly enforced.

OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT

The professional curriculum has been arranged with the presumption that students will devote full time and energy to their college and university experience. Students are encouraged to limit their outside employment in order to benefit from the full complement of academic and cultural opportunities that are a vital part of higher education.

OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of training, graduates will be capable of performing the following tasks or assuming the responsibility

1. Assisting in the preparation and performance of postmortem examinations which include:

a. Under the direction of the pathologist, performance of the postmortem prosection, selection and preparation of tissues for examination, and compilation of the preliminary summary of the clinical history to be correlated with the anatomic diagnosis,

b. Confirmation of legal authorization for special sampling, e.g., organ transplants or tissue donations,

c. Assurance of proper restoration of the body for release to the funeral director, and

d. Assurance of completion of the autopsy protocol including photography, as requested, coding of specimens and filing of reports.

2. Assisting in the preparation and performance of surgical specimen examinations which include:

a. Appropriate specimen accession and compilation of clinical history including scans, X-rays, laboratory data, etc., as indicated.

b. In association with the pathologist, description of gross anatomic features, dissection of surgical specimens and preparation of tissues for microscopic examination to include the preparation of frozen and permanent sections for light, electron and immuno-fluorescent microscopy.

c. Procurement of biological specimens for analysis (bacterial and viral cultures, toxicological material, etc.) and performance of special techniques as directed by the pathologist, and,

d. Appropriate documentation via correct coding, filing and photographic record.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS PRE PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM

Students seeking admission to the university should refer to the admission requirements as stated on page 15 of the Undergraduate Bulletin. Courses in this program are taken under the guidance of the College of Science. Students must pass the required pre-professional courses with a grade of"C" or better.

Time Limitation

Because of rapid changes in technology and in the methods and concepts of health care, students in the allied health programs must complete their pre-professional science credits within the six years just prior to admission to the professional program and must complete their professional program within three years, unless exception is granted by the department chair. Students who interrupt their academic program will have to apply for reinstatement on an individual basis to have their performance evaluated. They may be required to pass examinations comparable to those given to current students at that level sought for reentry into the program.

Professional Program Admission

The junior class is admitted to the professional program in September only.

The Admission Committee, composed of faculty and graduates of the program, will consider for admission applicants who have:

1. Acumulative GPA of 2.5 overall and 2.3 or better in the sciences

2. Completed al pre-professional courses by the time of admission

3. Successfully completed the English Proficiency Exam, if applicable (contact the Office of Testing and Counseling for times and dates of test administration), and

4. Submitted complete applications to the university and to the WSU Department of Mortuary Science by April 15 of the year one wishes to enter the professional program.

NOTE: All applications must include official transcripts from all former colleges/universities.

Interested parties should direct inquiries to:

Director, Anatomic Pathologists' Assistant Program
Department of Mortuary Science
Wayne State University
627 W. Alexandrine
Detroit, Ml 48201

This is a competitive program limited by available clinical affiliations. In reviewing completed applications, the Admission Committee will consider work experience, letters of evaluation/recommendation, science grades and overall GPA.Although academic achievement is important, knowledge of the profession, ability to communicate and personal qualities of maturity, motivation and integrity are equally important. Consequently, the Admission Committee will give great weight to evaluations from faculty advisers and employment supervisors as well as personal interviews in the selection of candidates.