Medical laboratory technicians must hold
laboratory experience in the field to become certified; therefore,
students typically complete hybrid programs rather than fully online
programs. Hybrid programs for medical laboratory technicians are
typically offered at the associate level, although bachelor's and
master's programs are available to become a medical laboratory
technologist.
Program Levels
Prior to choosing an online school, applicants must consider their
career goals and level of study. Those looking to become a medical
laboratory tech
only need to complete associate's degree program in medical laboratory
technology to begin work. However, online programs in medical technology
are available at the bachelor's and master's levels. Students
completing these programs are typical certified medical laboratory
technologists.
Online Availability
Another factor that prospective medical laboratory technicians should
be aware of is that education programs are not normally available in a
fully online format. Though licensure requirements vary by state, most
employers require medical laboratory techs to become certified through
the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), which requires
students to have graduated from an approved institution in order to meet
certification requirements.
To become approved, an institution must provide students' clinical
training; therefore, programs are typically offered in hybrid formats.
Prospective students should review a program's requirements before they
enroll. This will ensure that students understand the clinical
requirements and that the program meets the necessary standards to allow
them to be certified upon graduation.
Program Laboratory Requirements and Options
Students should also take into consideration the clinical options
available. Some institutions allow students to take coursework over the
Internet then meet clinical requirements at a local area hospital or
college facility. Another option is for students to complete their
clinical requirements at a number of different approved facilities
across the country. The final option is for students to complete
clinical requirements at a medical laboratory where they already work.
Students should check to see which of these requirements are found in a
program before enrolling to ensure that the program is compatible with
their own needs.
Online Associates of Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Technology
An associate's degree in medical laboratory technology is designed
for students who may have no experience in the allied health industry.
Students complete online coursework in areas such as microbiology,
phlebotomy, immunology and hematology. The degree is normally presented
online via education software that combines email and message boards.
Prior to program completion, students must meet clinical hour
requirements.
Online Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology
A bachelor of science in medical technology expands on the knowledge
clinical laboratory technicians gained in an associate program through
electives and general education. These degrees also provide the clinical
experience needed for ASCP technologist certification. However,
students with extensive work experience may be able to waive the
clinical portion.
Online Master of Science in Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics
Master's degrees in laboratory diagnostics are available for those
members of the medical laboratory profession who wish to expand their
careers through advanced education. Master's degree programs focus on
recent advances and research in the industry. Students can typically
find these programs in fully online formats.
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