Laboratory testing plays an essential role in the world of healthcare. However, there is currently a shortage of skilled workers needed to process an ever-increasing number of tests. Though problematic for healthcare organizations, the workforce shortage in the growing medical laboratory sciences industry is promising for clinical laboratory technicians and medical laboratory technicians who are looking to advance their careers as a medical laboratory scientist.
“Our nation’s clinical laboratories are facing a critical and growing shortage of qualified laboratory personnel,” according to the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the professional organization supporting pathologists and medical laboratory professionals. “This shortage hampers the ability of clinical laboratories to meet patient testing demands, which may pose problems for patient health and welfare.”
With laboratories across the nation facing shortages of medical laboratory scientists, there has never been a better time to earn your bachelor’s degree and advance your career. However, let’s first take a closer look at the entire process of how to become a medical laboratory scientist.
Getting certified as a clinical lab technician can open up many rewarding career opportunities in the healthcare field. Clinical lab technicians, also known as medical laboratory technicians, play a vital role in diagnosing and treating patients by performing tests on tissue, blood, and other bodily fluids. If you’re interested in kicking off an exciting and stable career in healthcare, becoming a certified clinical lab tech is a great option.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the key steps you need to take to earn your clinical lab certification We’ll cover the education requirements, experience needed, exam details, and tips to help you succeed Let’s get started!
Step 1: Earn an Associate Degree or 60 Credit Hours
The first step to getting certified as a clinical lab technician is to complete either an Associate’s degree program or coursework totaling 60 semester hours. This education provides the academic foundation you’ll need for a career as a lab tech.
Many community colleges and technical schools offer two-year Associate’s degrees in medical laboratory technology or clinical laboratory science. Look for a program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). These programs combine classroom instruction in science and hands-on lab training. Courses typically include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Laboratory procedures
- Anatomy and physiology
If pursuing the 60 credit hour route, make sure to take science-heavy coursework like biology, chemistry, microbiology, and math. Classes in communications, technical writing, and computer science are also helpful. Check with your desired certification agency for a list of recommended courses.
Completing an Associate’s degree or the required credit hours fulfills the eligibility requirements to sit for the certification exam.
Step 2: Complete a NAACLS-Certified Technician Program
In addition to or in lieu of a degree program, many choose to enroll in a specific medical laboratory technician training program. Look for one accredited by the NAACLS.
These programs are typically 12-16 months long and focus specifically on preparing you for a career as a lab tech. Coursework equips you with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to collect and analyze biological samples and interpret results. Topics covered align closely with the certification exam content.
Many community colleges and hospitals offer NAACLS-certified technician training programs. They often include a combination of classroom learning and a clinical practicum allowing you to get real-world lab experience.
Completing one of these targeted training programs is an efficient way to gain the expertise you need to pass the certification exam.
Step 3: Earn 6 Months of Lab Experience
In addition to your education, you’ll need hands-on experience working in a clinical laboratory environment. Certification requires a minimum of six months full-time lab experience or equivalent part-time experience.
Healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, and private labs can provide opportunities to gain this experience. Look for a position as a lab assistant, technician trainee, or intern. You’ll learn proper lab procedures, get familiar with equipment and technology, and start to build the skills needed as a certified tech.
If you can’t get a paid lab position, explore volunteer opportunities that allow you to shadow seasoned technicians and gain valuable experience.
This time working in an actual lab will prove invaluable when you go to take your certification exam and launch your career.
Step 4: Pass the ASCP or AMT Certification Exam
The final step is to pass a certification exam administered by either the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or American Medical Technologists (AMT).
The ASCP Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) exam is the most widely recognized certification. It covers 6 content areas:
- Chemistry – 12%
- Hematology – 25%
- Immunology – 13%
- Microbiology – 13%
- Blood Banking – 23%
- Laboratory Operations – 14%
The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions that must be completed in 3 hours.
ASCP also offers specialized technician certifications in areas like blood banking and microbiology.
The AMT Registered Medical Laboratory Technician exam covers 5 subject areas with a total of 140 multiple choice questions. You’ll have 3 hours to complete the exam.
No matter which exam you take, come prepared! Study materials and practice tests are available from the certification agencies. Expect the exam to cover:
- Lab procedures like venipuncture and pipetting
- Operation of lab equipment
- Disease processes
- Collecting and processing biological specimens
- Protocols for analysis and reporting
With diligent study and review, you can pass on your first attempt!
Tips for Earning Your Clinical Lab Certification
Follow these tips to stay on track through each step of the certification process:
Pick the right program: Make sure your Associate’s degree or training program is accredited and covers key knowledge areas like hematology, microbiology, and blood banking. This ensures you’ll be prepared for the exam.
Get lab experience early: Try to get hands-on lab experience as soon as possible through internships or volunteering. This makes what you’re learning in the classroom come to life.
Study hard for the exam: Allow several weeks to thoroughly review your notes, class textbooks, and practice tests. Focus on your weaker knowledge areas. Stay calm and confident on exam day.
Get involved in professional associations: Joining NAACLS and your state lab association provides networking, continuing education, and career advancement opportunities.
Consider cross-training: Once certified, look into cross-training in related lab areas like histology or cytotechnology to expand your skillset. Consider pursuing further degrees and certifications.
Stay up-to-date: Your certification must be renewed periodically by completing continuing education. Stay current on the latest lab technologies and procedures.
If you’re ready to jumpstart your healthcare career, becoming a certified clinical lab technician is a great choice. With an Associate’s degree or training program under your belt, lab experience, and a passing certification exam score, you’ll have the credentials needed to thrive in this essential and stable field. Use this step-by-step guide to navigate the path to certification.
Step 2: Earn your bachelor’s degree
To become a medical lab scientist, you must also earn your bachelor’s degree from an academic institution that is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). While those uncertain about their career goals may wish to consider a more general degree, aspiring medical laboratory scientists may be best served by gaining the knowledge, skills and experience available through a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science degree program.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Medical Laboratory Scientist
Most people don’t decide to pursue a career as a medical laboratory scientist in high school but, if you do, you’ll want to take science courses that will prepare you for future studies and the workplace — for example, biology, chemistry, math, and other sciences.
How to Become a Clinical Lab Scientist! ( CLS / MLS )
What is a Clinical Lab certification?
A clinical lab certification is a professional credential awarded after completion of a clinical laboratory training program at an accredited college or technical school. Certification programs teach students about laboratory safety and procedures and provide direct training in a laboratory environment.
How do I become a clinical laboratory assistant?
3. Earn at least six months of clinical laboratory experience Most certification programs require a minimum of six months of working as a laboratory assistant before you can take your certification test. This ensures you understand the proper procedures, safety practices and ethics associated with clinical laboratory work.
What is a Lab certification program?
Certification programs teach students about laboratory safety and procedures and provide direct training in a laboratory environment. Successfully earning a lab certification confirms medical professionals’ advanced laboratory knowledge and skills.
How long does it take to become a medical laboratory scientist?
Those working as medical laboratory scientists must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree through an accredited college or university before they can sit for the certification exam through ASCP.
