CLINICAL LABORATORY TECH IS ONE OF THE BEST HEALTHCARE SUPPORT JOBS!
Medical Lab Technician Program
Laboratory tests play an important part in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. Medical lab technicians perform a wide variety of tests and laboratory procedures that require a high level of skill.
Our students are in such high demand for this job, many are getting hired in their first semester of study.
The medical laboratory technician analyzes the blood, tissues and fluids in the human body by using precision instruments such as microscopes and automated analyzers. Medical lab technicians assist in performing complicated chemical, microscopic and bacteriological tests including: blood cholesterol level; microscopic examination of the blood to detect the presence of diseases; and cultures of body fluid or tissue samples to determine the presence of bacteria, parasites or other microorganisms. Technicians may also type and crossmatch blood samples. Collection of blood samples by venipuncture and skin puncture is a required skill of medical technicians.
Technicians employed in small laboratories often perform a variety of tests, while those in large laboratories may specialize in areas such as microbiology, parasitology, clinical chemistry, blood banking and hematology. Medical lab technicians are valued members of the health team. Graduates of the medical laboratory technology program are eligible to take the national certification exams given by the ASCP and NCA.
Contact our program director to learn more!
A medical laboratory technicians collect, process and analyze samples such as blood, urine and tissue. They play a crucial role in helping physicians and other health care professionals diagnose and treat patients by providing accurate and reliable laboratory test results.
Medical laboratory technicians use a variety of equipment and instruments, such as microscopes, computers and automated laboratory machines, to perform tests and analyze results. They can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories and research institutions.
Lakeland's program can be completed in four semesters (two years) with 65 credit hours completed. Graduates will receive their associate of applied science degree in medical laboratory technology.
Upon completion of this program, students will be eligible to sit for the certification exam to become a certified medical lab technician through the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website for up to date information on career out look and salary information for medical lab technicians.
Your education at Lakeland will prepare you to sit for the certification exam to become a medical lab technician. This exam will test your knowledge and skills required to perform lab testing and analysis accurately and effectively. The exam usually includes questions covering what you learn at Lakeland, including: clinical laboratory science, hematology, microbiology, immunology/serology, clinical chemistry and urinalysis/bodily fluids.
The main difference between a medical lab technician and a medical lab technologist lies in the level of education and the complexity of the tasks performed.
Medical lab technicians require an associate degree and perform routine lab tests. Medical lab technologists hold a bachelor's degree and perform more complex tests, analyze results and may supervise technicians.
The MLT Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS):
5600 N River Rd.
Suite 720
Rosemont, IL 60018
773-714-8880
www.naacls.org
Certification Agency:
American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification
