Join Our Inaugural Cohort

Applications for Summer 2026 open on July 1, 2025

two people in a pathology lab

Master of Science in Pathologists' Assistant Studies Program at MUSC

A New Opportunity at a Trusted Institution

The MUSC Master of Science in Pathologists’ Assistant Studies is a forward-looking graduate program preparing future leaders in surgical, autopsy, and diagnostic pathology. Built on MUSC’s strong legacy in health care education, the program offers a rigorous academic foundation, and immersive clinical training. You have a unique opportunity to be part of its inaugural cohort.

Why Choose MUSC’s Pathologists’ Assistant Program?

man in a pathology labWhere Credibility Meets Opportunity

While this program is new, MUSC is a nationally recognized leader in health sciences education. With a proven history of successful academic programs, we provide the structure, support, and clinical partnerships needed to help our students excel.

Intensive, Career-Focused Curriculum

This full-time, two-year program is designed to prepare you for real-world success.

Year One:

  • Foundational courses in human anatomy, pathology, histotechnology, and principles of surgical and autopsy dissection.
  • Small-group labs and hands-on experience in gross anatomy and dissection.

Year Two:

  • Clinical rotations in surgical pathology, autopsy settings, and more.
  • Training alongside experienced pathologists, pathologists’ assistants, and residents in real clinical environments.

Personalized Training and Mentorship

As part of the first class, you’ll receive one-on-one support from expert faculty who are deeply invested in your success. You won’t just participate in a program — you’ll help shape it.

Clinical Experiences That Matter

MUSC’s wide-reaching hospital network and academic medical center provide diverse, high-quality training environments to prepare you for the demands of today’s pathology labs.

Join the Founding Class

As a founding student, you’ll help establish a culture of excellence that shapes the future of this profession.

Derek Nelson, MSBS, MLS, PA(ASCP), Division Director

Image for PathA Derek Nelson

About the Program

  • Location: Charleston, South Carolina
  • Length: 24 months, full-time
  • Degree: Master of Science in Pathologists’ Assistant Studies
  • Accreditation Status: MUSC is actively pursuing accreditation through the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).
  • Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
  • Who Should Apply: Motivated students with a bachelor’s degree in a science field, including coursework in anatomy, biology, and chemistry

Career Outlook: Strong Demand, Strong Future

Pathologists’ Assistants are essential members of the diagnostic health care team. As the need for advanced lab services grows, demand for qualified professionals continues to rise.

  • High demand in hospitals, academic centers, private labs, and medical examiner offices.
  • Competitive starting salaries and long-term career growth.
  • Opportunity to sit for national certification exams once the program receives accreditation.

Note: Eligibility for the ASCP Board of Certification exam requires graduation from a NAACLS-accredited program. MUSC is in the process of seeking this accreditation.

Take the Next Step

Applications for our inaugural cohort open July 1. Learn more about the program, the profession, and how to apply.