Medical lab technicians use laboratory equipment to analyze blood, tissue samples, and other body fluids. Their work helps healthcare providers diagnose medical conditions and diseases — and demand for these professionals is strong. But how long does it take to train to become a medical lab technician?
Most medical laboratory technician programs usually take around two academic years to complete. During this time, students learn about laboratory procedures while strengthening clinical skills. They also complete practicum requirements to gain hands-on laboratory experience.
With an associate degree in medical laboratory technology, candidates can apply for a professional certification and state-issued medical laboratory technician license. In as little as two years, individuals can gain qualification to become a medical lab technician.
Medical Lab Technician Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of medical lab technicians include collecting samples, operating laboratory equipment, and documenting test results.
Also known as clinical lab technicians, these healthcare professionals need specialized laboratory skills. As part of their daily responsibilities, medical lab technicians may collect and prepare specimens for testing, manage lab tools and equipment, and maintain sterilization procedures. They are also responsible for recording the results of medical tests in patient records.
In addition to conducting routine tests on body fluids, medical lab technicians may also pursue specialized roles in research and development. For instance, they may operate automated cell counters to test the safety of new pharmaceutical drugs.
Most medical lab technicians work in hospitals or medical and diagnostic laboratories. They may also work in doctor’s offices, research universities, or outpatient care centers.
How Long Is a Medical Lab Technician Training Program?
To train to become a medical lab technician, candidates must complete specialized training. Most technicians need at least an associate degree, and in some states, medical lab technicians must meet licensure requirements.
During a medical laboratory technology program, students typically complete coursework in cellular biology, microbiology, and chemistry. Programs also incorporate training in medical lab procedures, hematology, and clinical immunology. Finally, students gain hands-on experience through labs and practicums.
After completing a medical laboratory technology program, graduates should have the knowledge and skills to work in a clinical laboratory. It takes around two years to complete such a program.
With an associate degree in medical laboratory technology, graduates can pursue professional certification and earn a license in their state. While not all medical lab tech jobs require certification and licensure, holding these credentials can help students expand their career prospects.
Medical Lab Tech Requirements
While a career as a medical lab tech typically requires a two-year associate degree, some states may require technicians to pursue certification and licensure. The certification process typically includes a certification exam in medical laboratory technology.
When choosing a medical laboratory technology program, prospective students should always check the program’s accreditation status, as many professional certifications require an accredited degree.
The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) both accredit medical laboratory technician programs.
In states that do not require licensure, employers may still prefer to hire candidates who complete a medical laboratory technician certification.
Because the requirements vary by state and even by employer, prospective students should research the licensure rules in their state and the certification preferences of major employers in their area.
Benefits of Medical Lab Technician Training
Advances in medical technology — as well as an aging population that needs more diagnostic laboratory testing — mean a steady stream of new opportunities for trained laboratory professionals.
As a result, clinical lab professionals benefit from high employer demand. The field is projected to have 24,000 job openings annually from 2022 to 2032, according to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With 5% projected net job growth in that period, medical lab technicians are expected to see higher-than-average growth compared with other occupations.
Medical lab technician training prepares learners for careers in this high-demand healthcare field in as little as two years. After completing a training program, graduates can also continue their education with a medical laboratory science program. Medical lab technicians may also pursue specialty certifications to advance their careers.
Enroll in the Medical Lab Technician Program at Fortis
Fortis offers a Medical Laboratory Technician training program at its Baton Rouge, Louisiana campus. The associate program prepares graduates for careers in medical laboratories. Students learn how to analyze cells to identify bacteria, determine the chemical content of body fluids, prepare blood for transfusions, and assume other key responsibilities.
During the program, students gain hands-on experience on lab equipment such as microscopes, cell counters, and computerized equipment. The NAACLS-accredited program meets the requirements for national certification and licensure as a clinical laboratory technician in Louisiana.
Graduates of the Fortis medical laboratory technician training program are working in hospitals, hematology centers, blood banks, and various other settings.
Contact Fortis to learn more about the medical laboratory technician program.
Recommended Readings
Could This be the Career for You? A Day in the Life of a Medical Lab Tech
How to Become a Medical Lab Technician
Medical Lab Technicians: Essential Healthcare Professionals in Baton Rouge