How Long Does it Take to Become a Lab Technician?

Interest and Skills

A lab technician can work in many different types of laboratories, including medical labs, chemical labs, forensic labs and dental labs. Regardless of which sort of lab tech a person decides she wants to be, however, an aptitude for science is one of the biggest prerequisites. If you find that high school science is too challenging for you, then chances are good that you should move on to another career.

Education and Experience

You will need a college degree regardless of the particular variety of lab tech that you want to become. For a medical lab tech, an associate's degree, at the very least, is required, and you must pass all necessary certifications required by your state and employer. Other positions, such as chemical lab techs who work in industries such as steel mills, may require bachelor's or even master's degrees in addition to any necessary certifications, depending on the technical level of the work. Additionally, though not a requirement for becoming a lab technician, previous experience in a related field or doing similar work can only help you get the job you want.

Time Frame

Taking into account the time it takes to earn your degree, and adding in time for the necessary certifications and tests, becoming qualified to become a lab technician may take at least 2 and a half years to 4 and a half years after graduating high school. You also have to take into account the fact that sometimes tests are given only at certain times of the year, as well as the current job market in your area.

References

• Medical Lab Technician Requirements