Master of Science in Pathologists’ Assistant Studies

Curriculum

Clinical Education

Following the successful completion of the didactic portion of the program, students in the Master of Science in Pathologists' Assistant Studies program will begin clinical rotations in the summer semester of year two. Each rotation is approximately 6-8 weeks long, with some variation. Clinical rotations continue through the second year of the program. Students will receive their clinical rotation schedule near the end of the first year.

Prerequisites

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.

1. Complete the MUSC application.
2. Submit all supplemental materials, if not included within the application.
3. Once all materials have been received and verified, your application will be reviewed.

Application Requirements

1. MUSC Application: All applicants must submit an MUSC application.
2. 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.

Cost of Attendance

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.

Click here to visit our scholarship application system to view a complete listing of MUSC scholarships.

Competencies

The MSPATH 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.