medical laboratory scientist education requirements

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Medical Laboratory Science Program

Medical Laboratory Scientist

What does a medical laboratory scientist do.

A medical laboratory scientist (MLS), also known as a medical technologist or clinical laboratory scientist, works to analyze a variety of biological specimens. They are responsible for performing scientific testing on samples and reporting results to physicians.  

Medical laboratory scientists perform complex tests on patient samples using sophisticated equipment like microscopes. The data they find plays an important role in identifying and treating cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other medical conditions. It is estimated 60 to 70 percent of all decisions regarding a patient's diagnosis, treatment, hospital admission, and discharge are based on the results of the tests medical laboratory scientists perform.

Video: Behind the scenes: Medical Laboratory Scientist

Scope of practice

Medical laboratory scientists collaborate very closely with physicians and medical laboratory technicians in diagnosing and monitoring disease processes, as well as monitoring the effectiveness of therapy. Areas of medical laboratory training include microbiology, chemistry, hematology, immunology, transfusion medicine, toxicology, and molecular diagnostics. 

Medical laboratory scientists have a wide variety of responsibilities and duties, including:

• Examining and analyzing blood, body fluids, tissues, and cells
• Relaying test results to physicians
• Utilizing microscopes, cell counters, and other high-precision lab equipment
• Cross-matching blood for transfusion
• Monitoring patient outcomes
• Performing differential cell counts looking for abnormal cells to aid in the diagnosis of anemia and leukemia
• Establishing quality assurance programs to monitor and ensure the accuracy of test results
• Overseeing the work of a medical laboratory technician

Medical laboratory scientist vs. medical laboratory technician

While similar, there are a few key differences between a medical lab scientist and a medical lab technician. They both work in the lab and perform tests on biological samples, however, a medical lab scientist typically has more education and is able to perform more involved lab work. A medical lab technician performs more of the routine lab work and is often supervised by a medical lab scientist.

Medical laboratory scientist vs. medical laboratory assistant

A medical laboratory assistant is a subgroup of medical laboratory technician. They are responsible for preparing biological specimens, recording information, and perform more of the lab maintenance tasks such as cleaning equipment and stocking supplies. A medical laboratory scientist will work with a medical laboratory assistant by analyzing their prepared specimens and relaying information for them to record.

Work environment

Medical lab scientists work in hospitals, clinics, forensic or public health laboratories, as well as pharmaceutical industries, biotechnology companies, veterinary clinics, or research institutions. Depending on the setting, their work hours may vary; but typically labs are run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This allows for flexibility in scheduling.

Medical laboratory scientists spend the majority of their time on their feet, analyzing test results in the lab.   

Becoming a medical laboratory scientist

Successful medical lab scientists are effective communicators with a sound intellect and interest in science and technology. Excellent eye-hand coordination, dexterity, and visual acuity are important to skillfully perform and analyze tests. 

Individuals who love science and research, but prefer to have little-to-no interaction with patients, would be a good fit for the medical laboratory scientist career.

Higher education requirements

After obtaining a high school diploma (or the equivalent), most will go on to obtain some level of higher education and training in order to become a medical laboratory scientist.

Common higher education requirements for medical laboratory scientist jobs include:

• Completing a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or clinical laboratory science. A bachelor’s degree in a science or health-related field (e.g. chemistry or microbiology) may also be considered.
• Completing a clinical laboratory program or internship through a hospital-based program or as part of their education
• National certification as a medical technologist (MT), clinical laboratory scientist (CLS), or medical laboratory scientist (MLS)
• Previous experience in a healthcare setting

Certification and licensing

Most employers require medical laboratory scientists to obtain certification through an accrediting body, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC) . After passing the credentialing exam, medical laboratory scientists (MLS) can practice under the credentials of MLS(ASCP)CM.

Licensure by state may also be required.

Career opportunities and outlook

Job growth and security are high for medical laboratory technicians and scientists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , there is currently a shortage of medical lab technicians and scientists in many parts of the country which guarantees ample employment opportunities and sometimes higher salaries for graduates. With the volume of laboratory tests continuing to increase due to both population growth and the development of new types of tests, job opportunities are expected to increase faster than average with over 26,000 new positions expected to be available by 2030.

With additional training and experience, a medical lab scientist can become a department lead or lab manager. Others may seek specializations to advance their careers. Typically, a medical lab technician will progress to a medical lab scientist with more training.

Medical laboratory scientist programs at Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic offers several programs and rotations to further your education and prepare you for a career as a medical laboratory scientist, medical laboratory assistant, or medical laboratory technician.

• Medical Laboratory Science Clinical Rotation (Arizona)
• Medical Laboratory Science Clinical Rotation (Florida)
• Medical Laboratory Science Program (Florida and Minnesota)
• Medical Laboratory Technician Clinical Rotation (Florida)

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How to Become a Medical Laboratory Scientist

If you like science and solving problems, a job as a medical laboratory scientist (MLS) might be right for you.

Laboratory professionals like MLSs play a vital role in the diagnosis and prevention of disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 70% of medical decisions rely on lab results. Read on to learn about what a medical laboratory scientist does, how to become one, and the current job outlook.

What Does a Medical Laboratory Scientist Do?

Medical laboratory scientists, sometimes called medical technologists or clinical laboratory scientists, perform complex chemical, biological, and microscopic analyses. Their regular laboratory work includes:

• Collect Samples : Obtain blood, urine, and other specimens from patients.
• Perform Tests : Conduct various laboratory tests on samples to diagnose diseases.
• Analyze Results : Interpret test results and ensure accuracy.
• Maintain Equipment : Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Ensure Quality Control : Follow protocols to ensure tests are reliable and valid.
• Record Data : Document test results and keep detailed records.
• Collaborate with Team : Work with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to discuss findings.
• Stay Updated : Keep up with new technologies and advancements in laboratory science.
• Educate Others : Train and supervise laboratory assistants and new staff.
• Ensure Safety : Follow safety procedures to handle hazardous materials and prevent spread of disease.

Employers seek laboratory personnel with good judgment and the ability to work under pressure. Employers expect medical laboratory scientists to be good at problem solving that can work with medical records.

Laboratory staff need to have a keen eye to detail. Even small changes in test samples or numbers can change a diagnosis. Good hand-eye coordination and normal color vision are important. Since labs use many machines, knowing how to use computers is essential too.

Where Do Medical Laboratory Scientists Work?

Medical laboratory scientists can work in a few different settings, including:

• Hospitals : Conduct tests on patient samples to assist in diagnosis and treatment.
• Clinics : Work in outpatient facilities providing lab services to patients.
• Diagnostic Laboratories : Analyze samples for various health conditions.
• Research Facilities : Engage in scientific studies and experiments.
• Public Health Laboratories : Test for diseases and monitor public health.
• Blood Banks : Screen and process blood donations for transfusions.
• Veterinary Clinics : Perform lab tests for animals.
• Drug Companies : Assist in drug development and testing.
• Forensic Laboratories : Analyze evidence for criminal investigations.
• Educational Institutions : Teach and train future laboratory professionals.

The Path to Becoming a Medical Laboratory Scientist

Becoming a medical laboratory scientist is an exciting journey that combines education, hands-on experience, and certification. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this career path:

• Complete High School. Start strong by focusing on science and math courses. These subjects will give you a solid foundation for your future studies.
• Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree. Earn a degree in medical technology or a related field from a recognized college or university. This degree is essential for building the knowledge you’ll need in the lab.
• Gain Experience. Participate in a clinical internship or hands-on training during your degree program. This practical experience is invaluable and helps you apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings.
• Get Certified. After you finish your degree, take a certification exam, such as the one from American Medical Technologists (AMT). Earning your MLS certification is a key step in becoming a qualified medical laboratory scientist.
• Seek Employment. Start looking for entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, or laboratories. Your education and certification will prepare you for a variety of roles in the field.
• Continue Learning. Stay updated with continuing education and training opportunities. This ongoing learning will keep your skills current and open doors for career advancement.

This path takes dedication and hard work, but it leads to a rewarding job where you help with patient care and health.

Getting Certified

Employers prefer MLSs who hold certification by a recognized professional association, like the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Choosing a certifying body is as important as picking a school or MLS program. Choosing a tough and valuable certification program shows employers and patients that they can trust your skills. It demonstrates your knowledge and expertise.

Certification with AMT requires that all applicants comply with certain requirements, or routes. Those who do have a great chance of passing the certification exam. AMT offers national certification and medical technology programs that are valid in all states.

These certification exams test the essential education needed to perform healthcare tasks. The National Commission for Certifying Agencies accredits AMT.

AMT’s CMLA certification is for both current students and people who already have jobs in the field. We focus on new healthcare workers across the United States and identify those eligible for AMT certification. See if you are eligible on our Medical Laboratory Scientist page .

Medical Laboratory Scientist Employment Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the job outlook for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is strong. Medical laboratory scientists and medical laboratory technicians held about 344,200 jobs in 2023. Experts expect employment of medical laboratory scientists and medical laboratory technicians to grow 5 percent from 2023 to 2033.

An increase in the aging population will lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions through laboratory procedures. Medical laboratory scientists will need to use and maintain the equipment required for diagnosis and treatment.

Medical Laboratory Scientists Salary

According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual wage of medical laboratory scientists was about $61,663 ($30/hr) in 2024. In general, salaries are higher in a hospital setting than in physician offices.

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Medical Laboratory Scientist

Physicians and surgeons rely on laboratory tests to help them diagnose and treat their clients. These tests are often complicated in nature and require a high level of precision to receive accurate results. Trained medical laboratory scientists perform this behind-the-scenes work to get doctors the information they need to care for their clients. 

Medical laboratory scientists (MLS) must know how to use specialized lab equipment, perform complicated multistep tests, interpret results, and troubleshoot irregularities. Because of the technical nature of the work, MLSs must have at least a bachelor’s degree, if not higher, in medical laboratory science or a related field. While certification is optional, it is an industry standard to earn an MLS certificate from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) as this demonstrates a high level of education and competency in the field.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics ( BLS 2023), work in this field can be quite lucrative, with a median wage of $57,380 per year (clinical laboratory technologists and technicians). Because of an aging population with an increased need for medical care and diagnostics tests, opportunities in this field will grow 11 percent nationally between 2022 and 2032. This translates into more than 16,800 new positions in the next decade.

If a technology-centric, detail-oriented job sounds interesting, continue reading to learn what it takes to become a medical laboratory scientist. This guide includes the steps to enter this profession, the required degrees, and certification and licensing requirements.

Medical Laboratory Scientist Specializations & Degree Types

Medical laboratory scientists typically earn at least a bachelor’s of science in medical laboratory science or a closely related field such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. Some earn a master’s degree in medical laboratory science as employers can require it and can boost job applications or opportunities for advancement. 

Within medical laboratory science, there is a lot of room for specialization. Typically, specialization is done through on-the-job training or certificate programs, although some specializations are offered through undergraduate and graduate programs. Specializations medical laboratory scientists may pursue include:

• Bacteriology
• Transfusion services 
• Clinical chemistry
• Immunology and immunotherapy
• Chemistry 
• Microbiology
• Molecular diagnostics

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Admissions requirements for medical laboratory scientist programs.

Requirements for admission to medical laboratory scientist programs vary based on the type of program. Traditional bachelor’s degree programs typically require a minimum GPA, SAT or ACT scores, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a high school diploma or GED. Two-year bachelor’s degree completion programs for students who hold a medical laboratory technician require applicants to have an MLT associate’s degree, have a minimum GPA, provide letters of recommendation, and write a personal statement. 

Medical laboratory scientist programs can be very competitive, so applicants should strive to exceed the requirements to improve their chances of being selected into a program.

Medical Laboratory Scientist Program Accreditation

Ensuring a program is accredited is an integral part of choosing a medical laboratory scientist program. Accreditation ensures a program has met stringent quality standards in faculty, curriculum, and facilities and is necessary to pursue ASCP MLS certification. Applicants must complete a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredits medical laboratory scientist programs. Attending a NAACLS program gives students a direct path to certification and may be required for state licensure.

On-Campus Medical Laboratory Scientist Degree Programs

Oregon Institute of Technology

Students can complete a bachelor of science in medical laboratory science (BS MLS) at the Oregon Institute of Technology in just four years. This program is offered in partnership with Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) and is the largest medical laboratory science program in the Pacific Northwest. Students move through this program as a cohort creating a collaborative learning atmosphere.

In addition to taking courses in body chemistry, biology and chemistry, hematological systems, and the immune system, students participate in intensive clinical labs that provide valuable hands-on experience. Students are also required to complete a four-month, 40-hours-per-week externship. There are over 50 externship locations in Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and Nevada. Graduates of this program have a higher than average ASCP exam pass rate and 100 percent employment within six months of graduation.

• Location : Wilsonville, OR
• Accreditation : National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS); Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Expected Time to Completion : Four years
• Estimated Tuition : $10,492 per year

Arizona State University – College of Health Solutions

The bachelor’s of applied science in medical laboratory science at Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions prepares students for a career in cytology, clinical laboratory services, or medical technology. Students are expected to complete 90 credits in general education coursework before starting this two-year intensive program. The second year of this program is intensive clinical experiences that put the clinical knowledge gained during the first year to the test.

Students must apply and be admitted to the Phoenix College Department of Health Professions, Fitness & Wellness to be admitted to this program. Upon admission to Phoenix College, students must then apply for the medical laboratory science program. Requirements include prerequisite coursework, immunizations, CPR certification, a background check, verification of observations in medical laboratories, and references.

As part of the program, students will delve into topics such as advanced immunohematology and immunology; advanced hematology and hemostasis; advanced clinical urinalysis and body fluids; advanced clinical microbiology; advanced clinical chemistry; and laboratory leadership, among others.

• Location : Tempe, AZ
• Accreditation : National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS); Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
• Expected Time to Completion : Two years
• Estimated Tuition : $1,052 per credit

The University of North Dakota – School of Medicine & Health Sciences

There are six different paths to completing a bachelor’s in medical laboratory science at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences. Students can complete a traditional four-year bachelor’s, a one-year program if they already hold a bachelor’s degree, a two-year program to transition from an MLT certificate to an MLS, and more.

While most options require students to be on campus, there is a hybrid option as well. With so many options, a solution fits almost every student. 

This program has been around since 1949 and has 70 clinical affiliates where students can complete their hands-on experiences. These sites are spread all across the country and include prestigious clinics such as the Mayo Clinic. Since 2017 this program has had at least a 98 percent graduation rate, 97 percent pass rate on the ASCP exam, and 100 percent employment rate within six months of graduation.

Some of the courses in the curriculum are clinical chemistry; clinical hemostasis; clinical urinalysis; clinical immunohematology; clinical microbiology; clinical hematology; medical mycology; clinical body fluids; and medical microbiology, among others.

• Location : Grand Forks, ND
• Expected Time to Completion : One to four years
• Estimated Tuition : $494.21 per credit

The University of Washington – School of Medicine

The University of Washington School of Medicine offers a master’s in laboratory medicine & pathology or a bachelor’s in medical laboratory science. The master’s takes two years to complete, whereas the bachelor’s takes four years. This program’s ever-evolving curriculum strives to stay at the forefront of medical laboratory science to provide students with the most up-to-date education possible.

Students must take courses in bacteriology, biochemistry, coagulation, molecular diagnostics, phlebotomy (blood collection), parasitology, and more. The bachelor’s program’s admission requirements include 90 credits of general undergraduate coursework, an applicant essay, a letter of recommendation, and an interview.

Core courses in the master’s program include medical biometry; laboratory medicine grand rounds; laboratory medicine research conference; organization and management in laboratory medicine; critical thinking and research design in laboratory medicine; and master’s thesis in laboratory medicine.

• Location : Seattle, WA
• Accreditation : National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS); Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Expected Time to Completion : Two to four years depending on the program
• Estimated Tuition : WA state resident ($3,829 per quarter); non-resident ($12,952 per quarter)

The University of Utah – School of Medicine

The bachelor of science in medical laboratory science (BS) at the University of Utah School of Medicine consists of two years of preprofessional studies followed by two years of professional studies. Coursework includes lectures, lab instruction, and clinical rotations. This combination provides students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for entry-level work in the field.

Preprofessional courses that students must complete include algebra, biological chemistry, statistics, and principles of cell biology. Upon completing all preprofessional coursework, students formally apply to the program. Admission is competitive, and applications are scored on a point ranking system. Applicants earn points for GPAs, essay question answers, work experience, and letters of recommendation.

The curriculum explores topics such as body fluids analysis; clinical immunology; clinical chemistry; clinical hematology; clinical immunohematology; pathogenic microbiology; molecular diagnostics; parasitology and mycology; and laboratory management and supervision.

The University of Utah’s School of Medicine also offers a 30-credit master of science degree in laboratory medicine and biomedical science that allows students to choose from two-track options: clinical laboratory science and biomedical research.

• Location : Salt Lake City, Utah
• Estimated Tuition : Resident ($920.69 per credit); non-resident ($3,475.67 per credit)

Online or Hybrid Medical Laboratory Scientist Degree Programs

University of Cincinnati – College of Allied Health Sciences

Professionals already holding a medical laboratory technician certification can earn their bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science at the University of Cincinnati College of Allied Health Sciences. This two-year online completer program builds on the skills and knowledge obtained for the initial certification and prepares students to sit for the ASCP medical laboratory scientist exam.

With the program being entirely online, students won’t have to travel to further their education. In fact, this program is designed with working professionals in mind. Students must complete 60 semester-credits in clinical immunology; special microbiology; principles of immunohematology; and clinical fluid analysis. Practicum requirements can be completed in clinics near the students’ homes. A capstone research project is required to graduate from this program.

Applicants to the program must have earned an associate degree in CLT or MLT from a NAACLS accredited institution with a minimum grade point average of 2.5 and provide proof of ASCP, AAB, or AMT CLT/MLT certification.

• Location : Cincinnati, OH
• Accreditation : National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Estimated Tuition : Resident ($573 per credit); non-resident ($588 per credit)

Weber State University Dumke – College of Health Professions

The online bachelor’s of science in medical laboratory science at Weber State University Dumke College of Health Professions is divided into two two-year components. Students will complete an associate of applied science for medical laboratory technicians degree in the first two years. Students complete more advanced coursework and clinical practices in the second two years to earn their bachelor’s degree. This ladder approach allows students to take a break from their studies should the need arise and still have earned a degree.

In addition to clinical skills, students will also learn how to perform administrative and management laboratory jobs, including compliance, policy writing, and workload management. Students must complete prerequisite chemistry, microbiology, anatomy, and biochemistry coursework to be eligible for admission.

Core coursework includes biostatics, research & laboratory practices; advanced clinical immunohematology; advanced clinical hematology & hemostasis; advanced clinical chemistry; advanced clinical microbiology & molecular diagnostics; and clinical correlation.

Graduates of this program will be prepared to work in various growing and high-demand healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, physician practices, pharmaceutical labs, research institutions, veterinary clinics, public health, forensic labs, and blood donation or transplant centers.

• Location : Ogden, UT
• Estimated Tuition : $291 per credit hour

Texas Tech University – School of Health Professions

The one-year online clinical laboratory science second degree and certificate program at Texas Tech University School of Health Professions is for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree but wish to pursue a medical laboratory science career. Students will complete two semesters of online coursework followed by an intensive six-day on-campus laboratory course.

Courses students must take to complete this program include clinical laboratory practice; clinical immunology; advanced microbiology; foundations of clinical microbiology; and principles of molecular diagnostics. Completing this program can result in either a second bachelor’s degree or a certificate of completion.

• Location : Lubbock TX
• Accreditation : National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion : 12 months
• Estimated Tuition : Texas resident ($215 per credit); non-resident ($623 per credit)

The George Washington University – School of Medicine and Health Sciences

The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences offers a two-year master of science in health sciences in medical laboratory sciences. Professionals with national certification as an MLT or MLS/MT/CLS, specialist, or subject technologist can apply to this program. Students with other certifications should contact the admissions office for additional eligibility criteria.

Additional admission requirements include a completed application, a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, a current resume, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, a GPA of 3.0, and official transcripts from every college and university attended. International applicants are required to provide proof of English proficiency with a TOEFL or IELTS exam.

Made up of 36 credits, the program includes courses such as molecular pathology; research ethics and integrity; current topics in MLS; advanced laboratory management and operations; biostatistics translational research; molecular epidemiology; and data analytics and research methods in laboratory medicine.

• Location : Washington, D.C.
• Accreditation : National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS); Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
• Estimated Tuition : $1,030 per credit

University of Southern Mississippi – College of Arts and Sciences

Medical laboratory technicians (MLT) who want to advance their education and certification can earn medical laboratory science (MLT TO MLS) bachelor’s of science online at the University of Southern Mississippi’s College of Arts and Sciences. With no out-of-state tuition, this flexible program is also very affordable. Students can transfer credits from the coursework completed to earn their MLT certification, allowing them to complete their studies in as little as two years.

Part of this program is an intensive 20-week clinical practicum at a hospital affiliated with the program. To be eligible for admission, students must already hold an associate’s degree and an MLT ASCP certification.

Comprising 124 credits, the program includes coursework in clinical bacteriology; fundamentals of hematology; clinical chemistry; introduction to clinical immunology; clinical mycology; clinical parasitology; clinical immunodiagnostics; and clinical immunohematology.

• Location : Hattiesburg, MS
• Expected Time to Completion : Two to four years
• Estimated Tuition : $379 per credit

How Long Does it Take to Become a Medical Laboratory Scientist?

Since medical laboratory scientists must have a bachelor’s degree or higher, it takes at least four years after graduating from high school to enter this profession.

How To Become a Medical Laboratory Scientist – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: graduate from high school or complete a ged (four years).

To pursue a medical laboratory science career, students must first graduate from high school or earn a GED. Earning a high school diploma or GED demonstrates a minimum level of education and can help prepare students for the rigors of college coursework. Aspiring medical laboratory scientists should focus on science classes such as chemistry, physics, biology, and anatomy.

Step 2: Complete Medical Laboratory Scientist Education (Four to Five Years)

A bachelor’s degree is required to be a medical laboratory scientist. The most common degree earned is in medical laboratory science, although students can major in a related field such as physics, chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy, and biology.

While not required, completing a National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredited program helps with the certification path and demonstrates to an employer that the candidate has a high-quality education in this field. Also, NAACLS programs include valuable hands-on practicum components that give students practical experience. Students can complete the NAACLS program as a bachelor’s degree or as a one or two-year certificate program post-graduation.

Step 3: Obtain Entry Level Medical Laboratory Scientist Work Experience (Optional, One to Two Years)

Entry-level employment as a medical laboratory scientist may not be the most glamorous work, but it provides new professionals in the field with much-needed work experience. These first jobs in the field help medical laboratory scientists learn how to work in a lab and help them determine if they want to pursue a specialization.

Step 4: Earn a Medical Laboratory Scientist Certification (Optional, Timeline Varies)

There are several paths toward earning a medical laboratory scientist certification. This voluntary step informs employers that the candidate has the necessary education, skills, and training to excel in this field. Certification can also lead to higher wages, an easier time securing employment, and more career advancement opportunities.

Step 5: Obtain a Medical Laboratory Scientist State Licensure (Timeline Varies)

Twelve states required medical laboratory scientists to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state, so candidates should contact their local boards to ensure they have completed any necessary education and certification.

What Do Medical Laboratory Scientists Do?

Most medical laboratory scientists work in hospitals and diagnostic labs, although some may work in private physician offices, outpatient clinics, and universities. Responsibilities can vary based on the place of employment and specialization. Here is a list of typical day-to-day duties:

• Running tests on fluid, blood, or tissue samples
• Maintaining laboratory equipment
• Operating complicated laboratory equipment such as cell counters and microscopes
• Participating in clinical research
• Supervising inventory
• Ensuring a high level of quality control throughout the lab
• Logging test results
• Discussing test results or finding with physicians
• Maintaining careful client records

Medical Laboratory Scientist Certifications & Licensure

This field’s primary certification is the medical laboratory scientist (MLS) certificate through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). While there are several paths toward licensure, the most direct is to complete a NAACLS accredited MLS program and earn a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. There are five other paths to certification that include:

• Have an ASCP medical laboratory technologist (MLT) certificate, bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, and two years of full-time work experience in a clinical laboratory or related field
• Have an ASCP clinical laboratory assistant certification, bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, and four years of work experience in a relevant field
• Have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and five years of related work experience
• Have an ASCP medical technician (MT)/medical laboratory science (MLS) certification, a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, and five years of full-time clinical experience
• Complete a 50-week US military medical laboratory training course in the past ten years, have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, and have one year of full-time clinical work experience

Medical laboratory scientists must obtain a license to practice in California, Hawaii, Florida, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Louisiana, Nevada, West Virginia, Montana, and Georgia. In these states, medical laboratory scientists are classified as laboratory personnel. Licensing requirements can include education, testing, fees, a background check, and a completed application.

How Much Do Medical Laboratory Scientists Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2022), on average, medical laboratory scientists earn $59,130 per year. The percentiles for wages were:

• 10th percentile: $35,220
• 25th percentile: $40,440
• 50th percentile (median): $57,380
• 75th percentile: $74,920
• 90th percentile: $84,670

Medical Laboratory Scientist Alternatives

There are many alternatives to a career as a medical laboratory scientist. Here are a few:

Become a Veterinary Technologist or Technician

Veterinary technicians and technologists perform physical exams and diagnostics tests on animals. They work under the supervision of veterinarians. While most work with small animals such as cats and dogs, they can work in clinics that serve large or exotic animals.

• Typical Education: Technicians (associate degree); technologists (bachelor’s degree)
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Association of Veterinary State Boards

Become a Chemist or Materials Scientist

Chemists and materials scientists examine how substances interact with each other as well as the atomic and molecular makeup of the materials. They plan and carry out complex research projects and are often responsible for managing a team of technicians helping them. They work primarily in manufacturing and research.

• Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: None required

Become a Biological Technician

Biological technicians, also called laboratory assistants, are responsible for performing tests for biological and medical scientists. They must have strong attention to detail and know how to use various laboratory equipment. Typically they work in research labs, although they can also work in hospitals and for pharmaceutical companies.

Kimmy Gustafson

At HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.

Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.

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• MTS Medical Laboratory Scientist Medical Laboratory Scientist Certification – MLS (ASCP)
• Laboratory Technology
• Natural & Clinical Science
• Medical IT & Administrative
• Patient-Facing Technology
• Cytologist (Cytotechnologist)
• Dental Lab Technician
• Histotechnologist
• Medical Lab Assistant
• Medical Lab Technician
• Medical Laboratory Scientist
• Biological Sciences
• Biomedical Science
• Biotechnology
• Health Sciences
• Infection Preventionist
• Nutritionist & Dietitian
• Pathologists' Assistant (PathA)
• Pre-Vet (Veterinarian)
• Biomedical Equipment Technician
• Biomedical Informatics
• Health Informatics
• Health Information Management
• Health Information Technology
• Healthcare Administration
• Medical Billing & Coding
• Nursing Informatics
• Sterile Processing Technician
• Anesthesia Technician & Technologist
• Audiologist & SLP
• Cardiovascular Technologist
• Dental Assistant
• Dental Hygienist
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
• Dialysis Technician
• EKG Technician
• EMT & Paramedic
• Kinesiologist
• Mammography Technologist
• Medical Assistant
• MRI Technologist
• Neurodiagnostic Technologist
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist
• Ophthalmic Technician
• Pharmacy Technician
• Phlebotomist
• Physical Therapist Assistant & Aide
• Psychiatric & Mental Health Technician
• Radiation Therapist
• Radiologic Technologist
• Rehabilitation Technician
• Respiratory Therapist
• Surgical Technologist

Certification Guides

Career guides, interviews & features, medical laboratory scientist certification – mls (ascp), search for schools.

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The medical laboratory scientist (MLS), sometimes referred to as a clinical laboratory scientist (CLS) or medical technologist (MT), performs a battery of highly specific analytical tests to assist doctors in reaching an accurate diagnosis regarding the patients who visit their office.

Due to the vital nature of this work, employment in this field is slated to rise significantly over the next decade; in fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2023) predicts a 5 percent increase in jobs from 2022 to 2032, which equates to 16,800 new job openings and a growth rate that is faster than the three percent average for all occupations for the same decade.

Individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field must meet certain requirements before being eligible to obtain the Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the primary certifying body for the profession. While certification isn’t a requirement nationwide, several states and territories require licensure or certification to practice, including California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

Preparation for becoming a medical laboratory scientist begins well before the individual sits for the exam through the ASCP; it can start as early as high school, where potential lab scientists will want to take as many lab-based science classes as possible to help prepare for the rigors of the MLS college curriculum and the difficulty of the certification exam. By starting the process as early as possible, an aspiring medical laboratory scientist can get a feel for lab work and build the necessary educational foundation to enter the profession and succeed in the role.

Auburn University of Montgomery

University of west florida, arizona state university, early preparation in high school to become an mls.

As mentioned, an aspiring medical lab scientist should first take relevant courses during high school that will prepare the student for later schooling and professional work. This may include biology, chemistry, math, and other sciences courses. Preparation should continue outside of the classroom as well.

For example, an aspiring medical laboratory scientist can consider searching for volunteer opportunities with local professionals to achieve clinical volunteer experience and better understand the job’s scope and rigors. Remaining diligent during this time will help the student prepare for college, the certification exam, and life as a medical laboratory scientist.

MLS (ASCP) Certification Preparation

Those working as medical laboratory scientists must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree through an accredited college or university before they can sit for the certification exam through ASCP. Furthermore, ASCP provides that such students, during college or university, should take mathematics, chemistry, and biology classes, which will help them prepare for the exam and the career requirements.

The most expeditious route to earning the MLS certification is to ensure that one’s bachelor’s degree program in medical laboratory science is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Successfully completing a NAACLS-accredited program qualifies the student to sit for the MLS (ASCP) certification exam within five years of graduation. Graduates of other programs may also be eligible but must meet additional requirements, including experience requirements that can add significantly to the timeline for becoming certified.

That said, individuals do have the option of obtaining eligibility via several different routes. For individuals who have not completed a NAACLS-accredited medical laboratory science program, the available routes to certification include completing a bachelor’s degree with sufficient coursework in biological sciences and chemistry and one of the following:

• Earn a medical laboratory technician MLT (ASCP) certification and complete two years of qualifying clinical laboratory experience
• Gain five years of full-time acceptable clinical laboratory experience
• Hold a now-discontinued CLA (ASCP) certification and complete four years of qualifying clinical laboratory experience
• Complete a 50-week U.S. military medical laboratory training course and have one year of work experience
• Hold an MT/MLS (ASCP) certification and have five years of qualifying lab experience.

Sometimes, a student may find that his or her eligibility overlaps among these categories, which is not a cause for concern. As long as an applicant can fit squarely within one of the sets of requirements, they are eligible to sit for the certification exam offered by ASCP to become a medical laboratory scientist. If a student is missing one or more of the eligibility requirements to become certified, they should first achieve that before moving any further with ASCP.

MLS (ASCP) Certification Exam Preparation

Upon meeting all of the eligibility requirements to become certified as a medical laboratory scientist through ASCP, the individual should decide when to sit for the certification exam and begin to research what to expect on the test day. As with most exams, the better prepared the test-taker is on exam day, the more likely they will get the results they want.

There is no one specific method of study that will guarantee success on the MLT exam. That said, there are certain ways to prepare, some of which are suggested by ASCP itself, that can help bolster an individual’s chances of succeeding on the exam and ultimately becoming certified.

Perhaps most importantly, the individual should read through the publications on the ASCP “suggested reading list” for aspiring medical laboratory scientists. An abridged list is included below:

• AACC Clinical Chemistry Trainee Council
• AACC Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines
• Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies  (AABB)
• American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC)
• Blood Bank Guy – Transfusion Medicine Education
• BloodLine Image Atlas (Hematology Images)
• CellAtlas – Blood Cell Morphology Guide
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Clinical Laboratory Science
• DPDx – CDC Parasitology Diagnostic Web Site
• LabMedicine
• Medical Laboratory Observer

Those interested in pursuing a certification as a medical laboratory scientist should understand that this is only a portion of a suggested reading guide prepared by ASCP. As such, anyone who wishes to work in this field should make a point to read as much relevant material as possible to ensure adequate preparation for the exam.

Along with a suggested reading list, ASCP also provides an overview of the contents of the certification exam for students to use while preparing. While the contents overview does not list the exact questions that students will encounter, it offers a comprehensive list of topics with which students should familiarize themselves before exam day and the weight each subject will have on the test. According to the ASCP website, the subjects that will be found on the certification examination, as well as their descriptions, are listed below:

• Blood bank (BBNK) – blood group systems, antibody screen & identification, crossmatch, DAT, elution/adsorption, blood donation, transfusion therapy, transfusion reactions, HDFN, phenotyping/genotyping, antibody titer, pre-warm technique
• Urinalysis and other bodily fluids (UA) – physical, chemical & microscopic urinalysis and body fluid analysis (CSF, amniotic, synovial, serous, semen & feces)
• Chemistry (CHEM) – carbohydrates, acid-base, electrolytes, proteins & other nitrogen-containing compounds, enzymes, heme derivatives, lipids & lipoproteins, endocrinology, tumor markers, TDM, toxicology
• Hematology (HEMA) – erythrocytes & leukocytes, reticulocyte count, ESR, sickle cell test, hemoglobin electrophoresis, RBC enzymes, RBC/WBC morphology & differentials, platelets, hemostasis
• Immunology (IMMU) – autoimmunity, immune responses, physiology of the immune system, immunology of viral & microbial infectious diseases
• Microbiology (MICR) – general microbiology, aerobic gram-positive cocci, gram-negative bacilli, gram-negative cocci, gram-positive bacilli, anaerobes, fungus, viruses, mycobacteria, parasites.
• Laboratory operations (LO) – quality assessment/troubleshooting, safety, management, laboratory mathematics, instrumentation, molecular techniques, education & communication, laboratory information systems

Students with a strong grasp of the aforementioned subjects will likely have the best chances of succeeding on the MLS (ASCP) exam.

Finally, in addition to the suggested reading list and the exam contents overview, ASCP also offers many online practice tests that are available for purchase. While the practice tests will not contain information identical to what will be found on a current exam, completing these sample tests can help an individual simulate test-date conditions.

State Licensure for Medical Laboratory Scientists

As mentioned above, only a certain number of states require individuals to be licensed or certified to work as medical laboratory scientists. Students should visit that state’s medical laboratory personnel licensing board for more information about licensure in any specific state. As an example, Hawaii clinical laboratory specialists must meet one of the following requirements for licensing:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, pass a qualifying exam, and have either one year of work experience or one year of training in an accredited program in the specialty for which the licensure is sought
• Completed 90 semester hours in an accredited college or university and one year of training in an accredited program in the specialty for which the licensure is sought

This is a thorough yet non-exhaustive list of the eligibility requirements for those interested in pursuing certification as a medical laboratory scientist through ASCP. Like any other career field, someone hoping to work in this profession should perform due diligence and learn as much as possible from all relevant agencies to grasp what to expect throughout each step of the process.

With her passion for uncovering the latest innovations and trends, Kimmy Gustafson has provided valuable insights and has interviewed experts to provide readers with the latest information in the rapidly evolving field of medical technology since 2019. Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.

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