How to prepare for a career in Medical Technology / Clinical Laboratory Sciences

Clinical Laboratory Scientists (or Medical Technologists) are the medical professionals who are "behind the scenes" and provide valuable diagnostic information for physicians. Training in the field can be challenging yet both financially and personally rewarding.

Things You'll Need

• An interest in the biological sciences
• A desire to help others

Instructions

1. Find a NAACLS accredited program in your area.
   Go to www.naacls.org and click on "programs" and then "find a program". Under program type, choose CLS/MT for bachelors programs or CLT/MLT for associate programs. Choose your respective state under the state tab. Follow the institution's link for detailed instructions on that particular school' s program. NAACLS is the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. Be sure to choose a program that is NAACLS accredited or you may be ineligible for certification exams post-grad.

2. After researching potential schools decide on one to pursue and apply. Considerations while choosing a school include cost, commute time, class size, program content, prerequisites, and other terms your feel important. And oh yeah, be sure the school is NAACLS accredited.

3. The path that I took to obtaining my CLS/MT allowed me to work full time in the laboratory while pursuing my 4 year degree. I spent 2 years in an MLT program to earn my associate degree. Once I had completed that, I started working full time in hospital laboratory. I then chose to go back to school to get the 4 year degree while working full time. I chose a school that had an MLT to MT articulation program. Many schools have this option which allows practicing MLT's to further their education while working. The program I entered was mostly online which allowed the flexibility to study when time permitted. I still had the same deadlines as the traditional classroom students, but the lectures were recorded and I could "attend class" at any hour during the day or night. If working ASAP is a concern, then this is definitely the route for you if you're self motivated and disciplined.

4. Once in school, make sure you keep up with your studies. At first, it may seem like you're learning a new language. You'll be using words you never heard of but you'll be learning valuable concepts and lessons that will stay with you for life. It can be a little intimidating at first, but if I can do it so can you. If you were to pursue any other career path you would need to be competent in that "language" as well. Once the basics are mastered the rest of the program will flow very smoothly.

5. I emphasized choosing a NAACLS accredited program earlier so you could assure your self the opportunity to take the certification exams. BE SURE TO TAKE THE CERTIFICATION EXAMS!!!! ASCP and NCA are the most respected in my opinion and will soon merge to become on entity. Therefore by taking one of these exams you could possibly cover both agencies in the future. They are similar agencies and most employers and professionals view them and equivalent. I, personally, am certified by both agencies and had to take 2 different tests to do so but I feel it was well worth it. It looks good an a resume to display 2 certifications and hiring managers appreciate the time and effort you have put forth toward your career. If you want to know how to pass the ASCP and NCA exams then view my article entitled, "How to pass the ASCP and NCA certification exams."

6. Once everything is complete and you become a practicing laboratory professional you will enjoy the rewards of serving your community, helping to heal the sick, and all of the personal rewards that come with the profession.