Histology is the study of tissues and their structures. This course will provide you with the capacity to identify the microscopic appearance of normal structures in the human body and relate structure to function.

The histology component covers the structure and function of cells at the microscopic level as well as tissues and organs of significance in the laboratory diagnosis of diseases. Major topic areas include basic tissue types as well as more specific systems including cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, and reproductive systems.

You will learn the theory of techniques (including non-surgical cutup, accessioning, fixation, processing, embedding, sectioning and staining of tissue via routine and specialised methods) and relate relevant techniques to the slides used in the Histology component of the course. Histological examination will be carried out using virtual microscopes where you will have the ability to examine histological tissues in detail, using light and digital microscopy. There is also a cytology component where you will learn the basics regarding the principles of routine cytological preparation and staining methods. .

The course requires you to integrate your knowledge of Histology with other study areas including Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry. It also provides a sound foundation for further study in Pathology.