Medical Technologists

High School

If you are interested in this career, take college preparatory classes while you are in high school. Science courses, especially those involving laboratory work, such as biology and chemistry, will be particularly helpful. Be sure to take math classes, including algebra and calculus, and computer science courses, which will aid you in preparing for working with calculations and technology. Round out your education with humanities classes, including English, which will give you the opportunity to develop your research and report writing skills.

Postsecondary Training

After you finish high school, your next step on the path to becoming a medical technologist is to get a bachelor's degree. A number of colleges and universities offer degrees in medical technology and clinical laboratory science. The typical course of study will involve a "pre-professional" phase lasting two or three years during which you take classes such as chemistry, biology, math, physiology, psychology, English, and statistics. Following this, you will enter a professional phase that is specialized for medical technologists. During this portion of your studies, generally lasting 12 months, you will take classes, such as immunohematology, clinical chemistry, and virology, as well as get hands-on experience working at the medical center or hospital lab associated with your program. You may also be required or encouraged to take classes in management, business, and computer science to prepare you for work in a professional setting. The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredits medical technology programs, and those who graduate from such programs are eligible to sit for certifying exams. Visit the NAACLS Web site, https://www.naacls.org, to view a listing of schools across the country. Requirements for graduation may vary according to specialty. The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs also accredit postsecondary laboratory science programs.

Advanced work in medical technology leading to graduate degrees and subsequent employment in teaching and research positions is available at an increasing number of universities.

Other Education or Training

Participating in continuing education (CE) classes is an excellent way to keep your skills up to date and become a more attractive job candidate. Many professional associations provide such opportunities. For example, the American Society for Clinical Pathology has offered classes such as "Strategies for Success in the Blood Bank," "Contemporary Pathogens," and "Patient Safety." The American Association of Bioanalysts, American Medical Technologists, American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science, and the American Society of Cytopathology also provide CE opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.