A Guide to Becoming a Medical Technologist

A medical technologist, also known as a clinical laboratory scientist or a medical lab scientist, is a fulfilling career choice helping to provide diagnostic services for the healthcare team. 

The MLT degree allows students a path to start earning a living quickly and enables them to easily earn a bachelor's degree online after graduation while working. This article covers structured steps, educational tiers, and differences between the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) careers.

Educational Tiers: MLT and MLS

Many students who aspire to become a medical technologist often start by earning an associates of applied science or associate of science degree in an MLT program. This is often completed at a community college. This initial educational tier serves as the entry to the profession and equips students with the knowledge and credentials needed to become licensed as an MLT. Students can complete the program within two years, graduate with very little student debt, and begin working in a clinical lab making a decent living.

MLT: Entry Point

Complete an associate's degree in an accredited Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program at your local community college. Become licensed as an MLT and begin working in a clinical laboratory.

MLS: Elevating Your Career

Earning a bachelor's degree in a  Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) program allows students to sit for MLS ASCP certification at the national level. Building on the MLT foundation, this advanced training and licensure opens doors to increased opportunities and higher pay within the profession.

Bridging the Gap: MLT to MLS Transition

Earning your MLS online is possible through the University of Kentucky’s MLT to MLS program. This program allows students to earn a bachelor's degree that leads to ASCP national MLS certification and a plethora of new career opportunities. Additionally, this program can be completed 100% online, with flexible clinical practicum rotations completed through your current or past lab employment. With the University of Kentucky’s MLT to MLS program, students can test out of clinical practicums and be awarded up to 8 credit hours of clinical practicum course credit if they have comprehensive work experience in any of the four major areas of the laboratory, resulting in significant cost savings.

Key Points

Differences and Opportunities

Having an MLS degree not only offers a higher salary, but also opens up more career opportunities in the laboratory science field, such as healthcare management, education, sales and consulting roles.

High Demand & Career Potential

Medical Technologists play a crucial role in the healthcare system. The demand for these scientists is high. Employment opportunities can be found in various settings, providing a diverse and dynamic career.

Start Your Journey Today

If you are working as a medical laboratory technician, and want to do more within your field, apply for the UK Online MLT to MLS bridge program today! Applications are due June 1 and classes start in August of each year.