UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Master of Pathologists’ Assistant (MDPA)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 18 coursesProgram Length
- 2 years full-timeCommitment
- NAACLS accreditedAccreditation
- Qualifies for ASCP and CCCPA examsCertification
- Hands-on laboratory experiencePractical Training
The Master of Pathologists’ Assistant (MDPA) program is a course-based professional master's degree designed to prepare you for a career as a Pathologists’ Assistant in a pathology laboratory. This program is one of only two NAACLS-accredited programs in Canada, enabling graduates to pursue certification exams required for employment across North America. You will gain practical experience in medical laboratories, learning to perform tasks such as the dissection of surgical specimens and autopsies under the guidance of a pathologist. The program emphasizes attention to detail, problem-solving, and collaborative skills, which are essential for success.
Curriculum
The curriculum includes core courses focusing on essential aspects of pathology and laboratory practice. Students are also required to complete a Sex & Gender Module and attend a Research Integrity Day session in their first year as part of course requirements.
- Year 1
- Systems Pathology
- Human Anatomy
- Human Pathology
- Human Histology
- Sex & Gender Module
- Research Integrity Day
- Year 2
- Surgical Pathology Practicum
Careers
Graduates of the MDPA program are well-prepared for a variety of roles within the healthcare and medical laboratory sectors.
- Pathologists' Assistant
- Medical Laboratory Professional
- Laboratory Management
- Pathology
- Forensic Pathology
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Pathologists’ Assistant program?
- You need a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences or equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0 over the last two years of full-time study (minimum 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units). A current CV and two reference letters are also required.
- How do I demonstrate English language proficiency?
- Various English language proficiency tests are accepted. Please refer to the program's Admissions tab in the Academic Calendar for specific scores and accepted tests.
- How long is the Master of Pathologists’ Assistant program?
- The program is designed to be completed in 2 years of full-time study and consists of 18 courses.
- What are the tuition fees for this program?
- Information on specific tuition fees for both domestic and international students can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating from the MDPA program?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Pathologists' Assistant, Medical Laboratory Professional, or Laboratory Management within the healthcare and medical laboratory sectors.
- When is the application deadline for the MDPA program?
- The application deadline for September admission is January 31st.
Entry requirements
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences or equivalentMinimum GPA of 3.3/4.0 over the last two years of full-time study (minimum 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units).
Various options availableRefer to program 'Admissions' tab in the Academic Calendar
A current CV and two reference letters are also required. International credentials should be reviewed.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to the Graduate Calendar for specific tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Refer to the Graduate Calendar for specific tuition fees.
LivingInformation on estimated living costs is available in the Graduate Calendar.
Information on fees and fee regulations can be found in the Graduate Calendar. Details on awards and financial assistance are also available.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the program requirements and ensure you meet the minimum educational and GPA criteria.
2. Gather Required DocumentsPrepare a current CV and arrange for two reference letters. If your primary language is not English, ensure you meet the English language proficiency requirements.
3. Complete the ApplicationSubmit your application through the university's online application portal before the deadline.
4. Check Application StatusMonitor your application status and respond to any requests for further information from the program.
Accreditation
NAACLS accredited
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Master of Pathologists’ Assistant program?
+
You need a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences or equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0 over the last two years of full-time study (minimum 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units). A current CV and two reference letters are also required.
How do I demonstrate English language proficiency?
+
Various English language proficiency tests are accepted. Please refer to the program's Admissions tab in the Academic Calendar for specific scores and accepted tests.
How long is the Master of Pathologists’ Assistant program?
+
The program is designed to be completed in 2 years of full-time study and consists of 18 courses.
What are the tuition fees for this program?
+
Information on specific tuition fees for both domestic and international students can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from the MDPA program?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Pathologists' Assistant, Medical Laboratory Professional, or Laboratory Management within the healthcare and medical laboratory sectors.
When is the application deadline for the MDPA program?
+
The application deadline for September admission is January 31st.