Admission Process

The application and admission process is described fully on the OSU home page at http://www.osu.edu, click Future Students, select "Graduate" or "International".  OSU requires applicants to apply on-line and the 3 digit code for the PA program is 345.

The application deadline for the Pathologists’ Assistant Program for Summer Quarter is December 31st for International applicants and February 29th for domestic students.  

Application Checklist

Send directly to the Graduate Admissions Office:
1.  Completed application form, apply on-line at 
      http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/apply_online.htm
2.  Nonrefundable application fee ($40.00, domestic; $50.00,
      international)
3.  One (1) original copy of transcripts or record of marks for each
      university-level school attended.  Include English translation of each of
      any foreign documents.

International students will also need to submit the following items:
4.  One or more Affidavit of Financial Support forms and all required
      supporting financial documents, if seeking nonimmigrant student visa.
5.  Official TOEFL (or MELAB) scores

Mailing Address:  The Ohio State University, Graduate Admissions Office, PO Box 182004, Columbus, OH  43218-2004, USA.

Send directly to the Pathology Education Manager:
1.  Statement of intent - This is best described as a statement explaining
     the applicant's goals in applying for graduate studies in the Pathologists'
     Assistant program.  This statement should include a summary of the
     applicant's relevant educational and professional experiences.  The
     candidate's career or professional goals should be stated.  The PA
     graduate committee is looking for a match between the applicant's
     stated career goals and the purpose and scope of the Pathologists' 
     Assistant program. 
2.  Three (3) letters of recommendation written on recommenders' original
      letterhead stationery, accompanied by completed Ohio State
     Reference Forms
3.  One (1) original copy of transcripts or record of marks for each
     university-level school attended.  Include English translation of each of
     any foreign documents.

Mailing Address:  Gretchen Staschiak, Pathology Education Manager, The Ohio State University, Department of Pathology, N-308 Doan Hall, 410 W. Tenth Ave., Columbus, OH  43210.
 

Essential Functions necessary for
       applicants and enrolled students:

The following essential functions (non academic criteria) must be met by all applicants and enrolled students. 

Observation:  The clinical rotations require active participation in all practical exercises by the applicant/student. This participation includes involvement at various levels with automated and manual laboratory techniques.  Observation and eventual hands on involvement in these processes is expected from the applicant/student.  It is necessary to have a clear understanding of the disease processes that affect patients and eventually result in the removal of tissue samples.  It is the detailed examinations of those samples using various techniques (including dissection, special stains) that allow the proper interpretation of the tissue.  These evaluation methods require the functional use of visual, auditory, and somatic sensations. 

Motor skills: The evaluation of specimens in both surgical and autopsy pathology requires motor skills that will allow the applicant/student to perform basic dissection techniques.  The applicant/student must have motor skills that allow him/her to operate various types of laboratory equipment routinely encountered in surgical and autopsy pathology laboratories, and record and interpret information. 

Communication:  The communication skills of the applicant/student are extremely important.  Effective communication in a clear manner enables the proper exchange of information between health care professionals and patients.  Good verbal and non-verbal (observing, reading, writing ) communication skills are crucial in preventing errors, some of which may have serious consequences. 

Intellectual capacity: To comply with all tasks associated with the learning experience in the didactic and the clinical aspects of the program the applicant/student must have an understanding of the nature of disease processes and the capacity to deal with the challenges associated with the problem solving aspect of a laboratory setting.  The ability to integrate knowledge, to think in abstract terms, to analyze situations and to be able to concentrate are crucial in the training of an APA. 

Behavorial and Social skills: The applicant/student should view himself/ herself as a professional that is able to interact with other students, health care professionals and patients in a socially acceptable manner.  Tolerance towards extended work hours and stressful situations is expected.  The commitment to the profession and a proper attitude towards learning will allow the applicants/student to continue the learning experience despite unexpected situations.

Good Standing:

Final examination:

Time limit:

Program Costs:

Tuition and Fees for 2008-2009 are as follows:
All costs are subject to change without notice.  Expect 5% to 10% annual increases.

Health Insurance:

Health insurance coverage is required as a condition of enrollment at Ohio State for students enrolled at least half-time in eligible classes.  More information may be obtained at the following link:  Student Health Insurance

Financial Assistance:

Address Inquiries to: