Helpful Facts About the Medical Laboratory Profession


Who are Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLTs)?

Where do they work?

What do they do?

How much money do they make?

What are the opportunities for employment?

What are the career ladders?

What are the requirements?


MLTs are clinical laboratory professionals that provide valuable clinical information to assist in the delivery of patient care.

MLTs work in hospitals, clinics, research, industry, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and education.

MLT's analyze body fluids for cells, enzymes, hormones, bacteria, etc. to identify the source and cause of disease.

According to data from the 2002 Wage and Vacancy Survey from the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) MLT salaries range between
$27,000 - $35,000/yr.  The 2003 report indicates salaries have increased approximately 5%.  For more updated information on salaries you can visit the ASCP website at http://www.ascp.org

There is a great shortage of trained medical laboratory personnel nationwide.  To find out more about the shortage situation visit http://www.ascp.org/general/media/shortage.asp

In the State of Florida, Associate in Science (AS) degreed MLTs are eligible to obtain a Technologist license after successfully passing one of the National Certification Exams.  The Technologist level is the next step in the career ladder for laboratory professionals.  Technologists can progress to Supervisors, Administrative Directors, Risk Managers, Infection Control Coordinators, and Safety Officers.  The career opportunities are varied and endless depending on the place of employment.

If you are interested in entering the exciting world of the clinical laboratory and becoming a Medical Laboratory Technician you need to complete an A.S. degree in a Medical Laboratory Technician Program.  Miami Dade College's Medical Center Campus has an A.S. degree NAACLS approved Medical Laboratory Technology Program.  If you are interested in more information about the program, contact Nilia Madan at nilia.madan@mdc.edu