How do I become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

How to become a Medical laboratory scientist?

• I am a Biology Major in college and i want to be a Medical laboratory scientist i would like to know what are the steps i should take in school to go that career pathway. after ...show more

• Answer:

  Medical laboratory scientists (also known as medical technologists or clinical laboratory scientists) must have a BS degree in medical technology or one of the life sciences and are certified by the ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology). The best way to prepare for the certification exam is to complete a one year NAACLS accredited program or clinical internship in medical technology. These programs can be used as the senior year for students in a medical technology degree program or taken as a post-baccalaureate internship. They prepare students with a combination of lectures and clinical rotations in hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, mycology, parasitology, immunology, immunohematology (blood bank), and sometimes genetics. In order to work as a medical laboratory scientist, you'll want to pursue ASCP certification (once you have a degree). To work in some states (NY, Cali, etc.) you'll also need to be licensed. The license is usually obtained after sitting for the ASCP exam. Upon passing, you can then apply for the license (if required in your state, I believe 13 states require licensure). There are options ("routes") defined by ASCP that allow you to sit for the MLS(ASCP) exam without having completed a NAACLS accredited program. These routes are usually going to be more cumbersome to pursue because, regardless, you'll need experience in each laboratory department. The only practical way to meet this requirement is with a NAACLS accredited program/internship (these usually provide clinical rotations in each area of the lab). Also, a BS in biology alone (without having completed a program) is not going to be adequate preparation for the exam. The subject matter is very specific and steamlined towards the medical application of laboratory testing. Try a google search for your area and medical laboratory scientist or medical technologist or contact NAACLS (see website below - looks like they have an MT program search engine). You could also ask a local medical laboratory or college/university advisor.