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Master of Science in Pathologists’ Assistant Studies
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Program Overview
The Master of Science in Pathologists’ Assistant Studies (PathA) program at MUSC is an on-campus program that prepares students to excel in hospitals, pathology labs, forensic labs and beyond. The first-year blends rigorous coursework with hands-on experiences in cadaver and VR anatomy labs, as well as dedicated lab training. In the second year, students complete supervised clinical rotations across diverse settings, building expertise in specimen processing, gross dissection and postmortem examinations. Graduates earn the MS in Pathologists’ Assistant Studies and are eligible to sit for the ASCP Board of Certification Exam.
Application Timeline
Summer 2027
Jul 1, 2026 – Oct 31, 2026
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Your path to admission
Discover key information about application steps and required documentation to help you move forward with confidence.
Eligibility Requirements
All applicants must:
- Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. No specific major is required.
- Possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Complete 18 hours of prerequisite coursework at a regionally accredited institution. Coursework does not need to be complete to apply, but a reasonable plan must be in place to complete all coursework prior to matriculation.
While it is not required, it is recommended that applicants complete eight hours of shadowing in an anatomic pathology lab, specifically surgical pathology or surgical pathology laboratory work experience, preferably in more than one setting. Shadowing should occur with either a Pathologists’ Assistant or a Physician Pathologist. Autopsy shadowing is also recommended.
Our admissions committee is looking for individuals with a strong academic background and/or demonstrated improvement over time. We also look for experience in health care or a lab, strong organizational skills and attention to detail, adaptability and effective communication skills.
Note: The GRE is not required and will not be considered in admissions decisions.
Minimum Abilities
At MUSC, we actively support all students to ensure their success in both academic and clinical settings. To support this goal, the university outlines the essential qualities and functional abilities required for participation in its educational programs. These include a range of observational, communication, motor, intellectual and behavioral skills necessary for safe and effective practice.
Prerequisites
| Prerequisite Coursework | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Algebra or Statistics | 3 |
| English | 3 |
| General Biology, including lab | 4 |
| General Chemistry, including lab | 4 |
| Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry | 4 |
Additional Notes
- Prerequisite courses must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” or higher.
- Courses may be completed in-person or online.
- Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment courses are accepted for prerequisite courses so long as the course appears in your transcript.
To speak with an admissions specialist about your coursework, please email oesadmis@musc.edu or call 843-792-2536.
Frequently Approved Prerequisites
Before applying, it's essential to ensure that any prior coursework meets the admissions requirements. MUSC provides a helpful reference list of frequently approved prerequisite courses to guide you in understanding which classes may satisfy your program's requirements. To explore the list, visit our Frequently Approved Prerequisites page.
Application Process
The following process outlines how and when your materials will be reviewed.
- Complete the MUSC application.
- Submit all supplemental materials, if not included within the application.
- Once all materials have been received and verified, your application will be reviewed.
Application Requirements
- MUSC Application: All applicants must submit an MUSC application.
- Supplemental Materials: Applicants will need to submit the following supplemental materials.
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Letters of recommendation: All applicants must provide two letters of professional recommendation.
- Resume: Applicants must provide an updated resume/CV detailing relevant academic and professional experiences.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Scores: The score report of the TOEFL is required for all applicants whose native language is not English. A TOEFL score of at least 80 is required.
- Essential Functions Agreement: Applicants must complete and upload the Essential Functions Agreement (PDF) with their application.
- Personal essay: All applicants must submit a personal essay, not to exceed 500 words, explaining their interest in this program, past related experiences and why they believe they are a good candidate for the profession, as well as identify the resources used to research the profession as a career choice.
- Prerequisite Coursework Progress: Applicants must complete and upload the Prerequisite Course Requirements form (PDF) with their application.
- Shadowing Log: Optional. Applicants that have completed a shadowing opportunity should complete and upload the Pathologists’ Assistant Program Shadowing Log (PDF) with their application.
Note: All above information must be received by October 31, 2025, to be considered for admission to the program. Without all materials, applications will be incomplete. It is the applicant's responsibility to review the progress of their application by viewing the Applicant Portal and ensure that all application materials are submitted.
International Applicants
MUSC welcomes international applicants and offers tailored guidance to support you throughout the admission process. View details at International Applicants.
Funding your path forward
Explore resources on tuition, scholarships and FAFSA to plan your financial path with clarity and confidence.
Tuition
| Fee Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application Fee (per application) | $50 |
| Matriculation Fee (upon applicant acceptance) | $500 |
Tuition and fees listed below are per semester unless otherwise noted.
| Tuition/Fee Type | Fall | Spring | Summer | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-state Tuition | $9,000 | $9,000 | $9,000 | - |
| Out-of-state Tuition | $12,000 | $12,000 | $12,000 | - |
| Program Fee | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 | - |
Cost of Attendance
| Item | Year 1 | Year 2 | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Costs | |||
| Tuition - In-state/Out-of-state | $27,000/$36,000 | $27,000/$36,000 | $54,000/$72,000 |
| Fees | $3,300 | $3,300 | $6,600 |
| Health Insurance | $4,591 | $4,591 | $9,182 |
| Direct Costs Subtotal | $34,891/$43,891 | $34,891/$43,891 | $15,836/$87,782 |
| Indirect Costs | |||
| Housing/Food | $27,144 | $27,144 | $54,288 |
| Personal | $2,880 | $2,880 | $5,760 |
| Transportation | $3,240 | $3,240 | $6,480 |
| Books/Required Expenses | $1,360 | $1,360 | $2,720 |
| Indirect Costs Subtotal | $34,624/$34,624 | $34,624/$34,624 | $69,248/$69,248 |
| Total - In-state/Out-of-state | $69,515/$78,515 | $69,515/$78,515 | $85,084/$157,030 |
Disclaimer: The Estimated Total listed above reflects an approximation of educational costs for planning purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on individual circumstances, program requirements and annual changes in tuition, fees and other costs. The Medical University of South Carolina reserves the right to adjust tuition, fees and other charges at any time without prior notice.
Scholarships
MUSC offers scholarships for which you may be eligible. Some are awarded based on academic achievement; others are awarded based on community service, for example. However, the majority of scholarships awarded at MUSC are based on financial need. This means that these scholarships are only awarded to students who need some financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and fees. If you would like to be considered for a financial need-based scholarship, you must have an up-to-date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. Make sure you list the Medical University of South Carolina on your FAFSA form, along with MUSC's code: 003438. We encourage you to submit your FAFSA as early as possible. It is recommended to submit your FAFSA in January if you plan to enroll in the fall.
Career Outlook
Specialized roles in pathology
Pathologists’ assistants work alongside pathologists to gross, dissect and document tissue specimens, assist in autopsies and ensure accurate diagnoses in patient care.
Program Outcomes
The program will provide graduation, attrition, placement within six months of graduation, and board certification exam pass rate for all graduating classes when the first cohort graduates in 2026.
Program Faculty & Staff
Derek Nelson, MSBS, MLS, PA(ASCP)
Assistant Professor
Division Director
nelsoder@musc.edu
Lauren LeBeau, M.D.
Associate Professor, College of Medicine - Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Brooke Phelps, MS, PA(ASCP)CM
Frequently Asked Questions
Pathologists' assistants typically work in hospitals, private pathology labs and medical examiner offices, helping examine surgical specimens and perform autopsies. They may also work in academic institutions, or biotech companies.
We are a new program going through the accreditation process with National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Our students will graduate with a degree that makes them eligible to take the ASCP Board of Certification exam just like students from any other accredited program. We anticipate receiving full accreditation in April 2029. More information about this accreditation timeline can be found on our homepage.
We will accept 25 students per cohort.
Our first cohort will begin in the Summer 2026 (May 2026) semester. Future cohorts will start in the Summer semester each year.
No. All applications submitted during the application period will be reviewed after the deadline. There is no benefit to applying early other than giving yourself ample time to ensure that all materials are received by MUSC prior to the deadline.
Yes, the admissions committee will consider coursework you retake.
Living in Charleston
Charleston offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience. With top-rated dining, scenic waterfronts and endless outdoor activities, the city offers an unmatched quality of life for residents, striking a balance between work and leisure.
Guided by Purpose and Principles
Rooted in purpose and rigorous practice, MUSC's program cultivates ethical expertise and community-focused professionals who are ready to advance pathology care.
Programmatic Goals
The PathA program aims to:
- Achieve and maintain consistent or higher enrollment numbers with a focus on attracting high-quality applicants and emphasizing the importance of interprofessional studies
- Ensure at least 90% of graduates will pass the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Certification Exam within one year of graduation
- Obtain a graduation rate of at least 80% per cohort of students matriculated program
- Ensure at least 80% of graduates will be employed as a pathologist assistant with 6 months of graduation
- Encourage and support an academic environment that promotes faculty development, including dissemination of scholarship through publication, poster and podium presentations
- Maintain an extensive network of high-quality clinical sites for student rotations
- Promote continuous improvement in curriculum to enhance interprofessional collaboration and ensure relevance to current pathology practices
Learning Outcomes
The PathA program aims to prepare graduates to:
- Demonstrate competence in surgical and autopsy pathology techniques: Graduates will perform comprehensive surgical and autopsy pathology procedures, select appropriate tissues, compose detailed reports and apply current diagnostic protocols, ensuring accuracy and quality in specimen examination.
- Synthesize clinical and pathologic information for diagnosis: Graduates will integrate and analyze clinical history and pathologic findings from various sources to present complete and accurate clinical pathologic correlations.
- Apply principles of laboratory management and compliance: Graduates will implement essential management concepts, including regulatory compliance, quality assurance and effective resource management, to maintain a well-functioning pathology laboratory.
- Utilize and advocate for information technology in pathology practice: Graduates will promote and apply information technology solutions to enhance laboratory efficiency, data accuracy and professional communication in pathology.
- Communicate effectively in interprofessional health care settings: Graduates will demonstrate strong verbal, written and photographic communication skills to collaborate effectively with pathologists, health care providers and interprofessional teams.
- Engage in evidence-based practice and ethical decision-making: Graduates will apply evidence-based methods and ethical principles to ensure continuous improvement in patient care and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect for patient dignity.
- Provide leadership and educational guidance in pathology: Graduates will demonstrate leadership by mentoring and educating students, residents and health care professionals in pathology, fostering a collaborative learning environment and advancing the profession.
Vision
To be recognized as a leader in graduate-level education, producing professionals who uphold the highest standards of pathology practice. Through innovative education, clinical expertise and leadership, our graduates will enhance the field of anatomic pathology and advance the quality of health care in both local and global communities.
Mission
To educate and develop highly skilled allied health professionals who will excel in providing comprehensive surgical and autopsy pathology services. Under the guidance of board-certified pathologists and pathologists’ assistants, graduates will contribute to patient care through the meticulous examination of specimens and effective communication within the health care team, demonstrating a commitment to the dignity and respect of all patients.
Values
At the core of our program, we are guided by a commitment to the following values that drive our mission:
- Compassion: We act with kindness, empathy and dignity.
- Collaboration: We achieve common goals through teamwork and partnerships.
- Innovation: We drive transformation by embracing innovative ideas, discoveries and practices.
- Integrity: We do the right thing and commit to accountability in words, actions and use of resources.
- Respect: We value everyone and their many perspectives to build trust and a sense of belonging.
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Accreditation & Recognition
Our program operates under state approval and is pursuing NAACLS accreditation, advancing student eligibility for ASCP board certification.
The Master of Science in Pathologists’ Assistant Studies program at the Medical University of South Carolina was approved by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education (SC CHE) in December 2024. The program is actively pursuing accreditation through the National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 5600 N River Rd, Ste 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119; telephone: 773-714-8880; website: https://www.naacls.org.
An initial application will be submitted in January 2026. Upon approval, the program will begin the Self-Study, due February 1, 2028, three months before the first-class graduates. Once the Self-Study is accepted, the program will achieve “Serious Applicant” status, making students eligible to take the ASCP Board of Certification exam prior to graduation. A site visit is expected in Fall 2028, with final review by the NAACLS Board of Directors in April 2029.