Medical Lab Tech Q&A

[@morganfisher3390]

For anyone wondering about if you can have an bachelors degree before starting a medical laboratory science program, you totally can! I have many friends who have BS in biology or chemistry and it helped them a lot! there are also many masters programs that allow you to get ASCP certified with a previous bachelors degree :)

[@afuakwofie582]

Can you provide more information on these masters program pls

[@missstacyoh]

This is true! For those with science bachelors degrees, there are 1-year programs that you can apply to which consists of lectures and clinical training specifically for this field. A bio/chem degree typically covers all the prerequisites needed to apply for a program. The only downside is that most programs do not accept a large number of students per year so it can be fairly competitive but that also depends on where you are applying.

[@mewdyjewdy9759]

@@missstacyoh I live in Florida. There’s only a handful of schools that offer the program. They state the program is limited and competitive. Do you know why that is???

[@missstacyoh]

@@mewdyjewdy9759 Yeah it seems like the programs are limited and competitive everywhere. I think it's because these programs require extensive training with hands-on experience in the lab and there aren't many hospitals/schools that can accommodate for all that teaching and training. I believe that's also why programs accept such a small number of students per year. I have also heard of some people doing their programs online, but they have to find their own clinical rotations at hospitals in their area.

[@mewdyjewdy9759]

@@missstacyoh oh ok that makes sense. Thank you!

[@jamiefolger8513]

Hi. I love your name! Anyway, thank you for doing this video. I am a 41-year-old woman who will be going back to school to become an MLT, hopefully next spring, and even though I have already made up my mind, I still wanted to watch videos like yours of what it's like to be an MLT. I just want to know what I'm getting myself into and mentally prepare for it. Thanks!

[@tinyUbay81]

hi, I'm 40, going 41 ;). how was it? I want to become lab tech too :)

[@jeremymoore145]

I’m a MLT and I started making 18$ and now I make 27$. I’m currently going back for my bachelors online. You are right, you will make more money in the hospital. In some cities you can make 3$ differential pay added to your salary an hour. Great video.

[@your1andonly2]

I have an associate's degree but am I also required to get certified?

[@jeremymoore145]

@@your1andonly2 yes. You would need to take the ASCP or AMT. I would recommend the ASCP certification. It is the most credible nation wide.

[@ambitiousbeauty1013]

I know someone that is a medical lab tech. She's not certified, has no degree or certification. She got paid training at a hospital. Some places will hire you and train you to be a medical lab tech. Now I do think you can't travel without a certification though. But to work as a medical lab tech in my state, no certification or degree is required. You just have to find a hospital or clinic that will give you paid training.

[@mourningmelody]

I just graduated with my BA in Public Health last week and I am really considering going back to school to become a MLT. I am thankful for my BA but a part of me wishes I pursued MLT from the start. If I were to start now, I'd have to start all over and figure out life. But this video really give me more insight so thank you!

[@yunisblu3412]

I have a degree in Chemistry and I am currently employed as a pre-lab tech while attending uni full time as an MLT student. Its a great opportunity coz you get to learn about pre lab sample prep and running extractions on HPLC/Tandem mass specs/GC/GCMS. Plus the best part is most employers looking for MLTs will pay for your tuition (my job does). Plus I live in live in Massachusetts and as MLT lab assist I get paid $28/Hr. It's a very great opportunity especially if you are introverted coz most labs have work stations.

[@uso12341]

I actually have a B.S in Public Health as well , I took chemistry and biology credits though. In some states they allow you to sit in for the AAB Exam and get state certified. After my bachelor's I found an MLT program that was 16 months, completed it, and was allowed to sit in for either ASCP & AMT ,MLT or the AAB for MT. Do your research and try to find an accredited program that works for you! Their are many routes to becoming a med tech!!!

[@BbyGLK]

i've got 5 years experience in biopharmaceuticals and lab analytics and i've been thinking about going the MLT route. Thanks for posting this

[@shaneakeziah0613]

NC MLT here started at 17 an hour. I do 12hr shifts three nights a week off 4 nights a week. :)

[@betsyreyes9351]

Where did you go to school? Trying to find a program in NC?

[@hvnxxo]

Hey girly! I live in NC and would love to know what college did you attend . I decided to change my major , nursing to mlt.

[@jeremiahshelton5709]

Hey, I am currently in AA MLT program, it is difficult if you haven't taken similar classes before from another college or as a gen ed, or something that your interested in, then it would be hard, cause there is a lot to it, like she said hematology, urinalysis, immunology, chemistry, etc. But it is a fun program, cause of labs and to be growing things, as well as getting real patient specimens from a hospital to analyze, for practice. it is amazing.

[@NeonGir98]

I'm very excited to go join a MLT program and I thank you for making these videos!

[@AkilaTeachings]

How is it going? I would love to start college soon and want to do this any advice?

[@alyssaramirez61]

im pursuing medical laboratory technology as my major super excited to graduate and make a decent living! medical lab tech always made me feel like a scientist so i literally just chose it, but im coming to really like it

[@danniellec.930]

I appreciate this video so much and your day in a life video. I am currently a phlebotomist and I been looking for the next step up from that. Thank you so much!

[@nae80West]

Me too. I’m currently waiting on the list to get into the MLT program. I’ve been waiting a year, but I’ve been a phlebotomist for 17 years… it’s time to move up 4 sure. I live in Cali.

[@Rachelllllll2024]

@@nae80West good luck!

[@nae80West]

@@Rachelllllll2024 Thank you very much!

[@choux7746]

@@nae80West what school are you attending for MLT?

[@nae80West]

@@choux7746 De Anza in Cupertino

[@efukaugustine3609]

HI DEREKA, Iam following you right from south sudan ( Africa ) and iam a lab technician, very happy to follow your videos

[@damarisford4996]

Thank you for making this video. I’ve been so indecisive about my next career move.

[@Iceloversunitee]

How crazy I’m watching this on your birthday. Happy birthday girl 🎉

[@derekaray]

Thank you!

[@hvnxxo]

Thankkkk you for taking thr time to make this video ! I definitely like the idea working behind the scene and i love that theee is no direct patient care 😅... coming from a nursing student . I realized nursing wasnt for me when i had to be with the patient 24/7 during clinical.

[@TheDinahdale]

This video was extremely helpful to me because I live in Memphis also and work in a hospital as a pharmacy tech and was curious about the pay and other topics that you covered. Thanks 😊

[@sandrason953]

I have been watching all your career videos. I really love them! You inspired me to start recording my days in the field too. Keep up the good work!

[@itsnotlaci2139]

Extremely helpful, Im 17 years old, turning 18 years old, going into a phlebotomy program this year, and then Im going to try and become an MLT.

[@56chrsbri]

Dereka, I enjoyed your explanation of your experience. But I do know for a fact that here in NYC, most managers of Laboratories in Hospitals are Doctors. And like you said, a lot of the time, it's a Pathologist, although I worked in a lab where it was a Biologist with a Doctorate. Actually, I have worked in Pathology in a hospital and also in an Outpatient lab.

[@AstronomyGuru84]

I started out working three years in Dietary at my hospital. I have now been working in Sterile Processing for about a year and got my Certification in Sterile Processing. I really want to be a Lab Technician. I might see if I can visit the lab at my hospital and get more information about it. I love science! It's the education I worry about. I'm horrible at math's!! I already have an AA degree. Not sure that would help me. I like working in SPD but it just doesn't pay enough.

[@chandracb]

Totally agree with your comment. I worked in EVS at a hospital for 11 years and decided to go to school for Respiratory Therapy. I did that last year and realized it really isn't what I want to do and wish I went to school for Medical Lab Tech instead. I've recently started working in Sterile Processing and I enjoy it but like you said the pay isn't good. So now I'm making plans to study for MLT, just dreading the demanding school load because it was torture in Respiratory school.

[@luciem4562]

There is barely any math involved. And you can use a calculator.

[@goldengalx]

I’m so glad I found your channel! I’m starting my MLT degree online this fall and I’m responsible for finding an accredited lab to employ and or mentor me for the lab aspect of the degree. So my question to you is how can I go about finding a lab that will take me? Lol I have no lab experience so I’m really nervous this will prevent me from starting on my MLT career! This question is probably outside of your expertise but I figured it was worth a shot asking 😭

[@lasi1645]

Hey! What school are you taking that mlt degree online? Thank you!

[@goldengalx]

@@lasi1645 Weber State University online!

[@mariamhasham7926]

@@goldengalx is it accredited school ?

[@dynasialorraine4907]

So happy you said something because I was considering that school online as well as the program ! Lmk how it’s working out for you :)

[@tre12124]

Any new info?

[@nailedby_shawna5401]

Just got accepted into the MLT program 🎉👩🏽‍🔬

[@748-e5t]

i literally have no degree or prior experience but got hired as a lab tech in a blood bank! it's possible y'all! i got an offer for an interview as a receptionist but asked if they had any openings in the lab and they said yes!

[@manoharkaur166]

Great!!...If u don't mind could u plz tell me how much you make there????

[@748-e5t]

@@manoharkaur166 not at all! I live in Texas where minimum is $7.25/hr, i get payed $10.25/hr. I have a friend who got a similar job at another center, but she has a bachelor's in biology, and makes $15.65/hr, i'm hoping with some experience I can work with her. I hope this helps! good luck

[@Mini-rt8bm]

Since you had no experience, did you get trained and was it hard starting off?

[@jackelinecornejo5408]

Following previous question!

[@THEDOORIZCLOSED]

She not gonna answer no more y’all😢😢 and i think with a degree you’ll get paid more. Check reddit boards for your answers and other youtube vids

[@bananas6194]

I live in ct and got a bachelors in chemistry but I am going to go back to do an associates in mlt in January. in ct there's only one school who offers a masters program in medical lab science but its so expensive compared to a community college. maybe it would be worth it but to me community college seems like an easier and cheaper route to go. I should've done it right out of high school though instead of going to college. oh well!

[@chasityswift9125]

Hey Dereka this Chasity from Southwest. I’m glad to see your doing well.

[@CadaverQT]

Thanks for the timestamps and for speaking to each point so succinctly! Really awesome vid!

[@Nathankaadedoo]

I love you girl Your videos are always great

[@laurenrichardson7409]

I’m from Memphis also! I’m planning on attending Southwest and do the MLT program!

[@derekaray]

I believe Ms. Hill is the still the program director there. She's tough but fair! Good luck.

[@cordarrorichmond9232]

did you start, im starting in the spring

[@cordarrorichmond9232]

@@derekaray wait, you are in memphis

[@derekaray]

@@cordarrorichmond9232 I'm not in Memphis I graduated from Southwest in 2016.

[@morganfisher3390]

Lab CE is also great for studying for your boards

[@brysonkelly986]

I start the MLT program at my school august 14th

[@afuakwofie582]

Can you do a video on traveling MLT? Thanks

[@johnguillen68]

I have a question and I know it's been answered early in the video but I'm looking into the med-tech field and I've been working in the ER for over 17yrs and I'm kind of burnt out, I do have a BS degree in biology and a minor in chemistry but it's been 3yrs and I can't remember a lot about gram positive and gram negative lingo, How much do I need to study to get into this field? I spoke with a med tech at the hospital where I work and they told me that they can put me through their in-house training and get me prepared for the MLS/MLT exam (9 months) I'm thinking of doing this but I'm afraid that I may not get a better salary then the ER. I live in Georgia and I really don't want to ask the med tech how much they make but I'm assuming that it's not a lot.

[@hector10908]

Great video thanks a lot you answered many of my questions! Entering the Med tech program this January 🙌🏼!!! Quick question: if you had to say where in school you would recommend paying the most attention to that helps you succeed successfully in a real lab job once you graduate? Thanks, subscribed and liked!!!

[@ambitiousbeauty1013]

Can you please do a video on your travel pay and the best travel agencies to get contracts with?

[@misshorton2163]

Hi there! I want to become a MLT or MLS but I'm curious about the ways to get there. I kind of want to become a ML Technician first, take a program at a technical college and get the equivalent of an Associates, and get some work experience before moving on to my bachelor's. Would the lab that I work in provide me training or tuition funding to pursue a higher education? Do people do things like that? Loved your video!

[@luciem4562]

You can work as a technician for two years, and after two years I believe you are eligible to take the MLS board exam without completing the MLS degree.

[@ariel0784]

thank you for this!!! 😊

[@RossWardistan]

Happy belated birthday.

[@estelamino6356]

Thanks a lot. For u advise .those hospital offer MLS..program for Lab tech

[@blackgemz2648]

Is the Medical Laboratory Technology program difficult?

[@ambitiousbeauty1013]

Is there a fast track medical lab scientist certification program for people who are already a certified lab tech?

[@KaiteB]

I am currently in Memphis and am thinking about going back to school for this. Would you mind sharing what school you went to? And your experience while enrolled?

[@derekaray]

Tennessee southwest community college. I had a good experience at southwest, but it is fast pace learning so you have to stay focus.

[@mariamhasham7926]

@@derekaray I have applied at southwest. Do you know if they have evening classes ?

[@meadowsz5390]

@@mariamhasham7926 I'm looking into programs too and I can't answer for this school but most schools I've looked at only offer MLT programs during the day. Idk I hope that helps.

[@bojanjanjic8463]

I am attending a community college to study Med tech. How far do travel med tech travel daily/weekly? also was it hard to land a job shortly after graduating?

[@derekaray]

Travel assignments are usually 13 weeks or longer. Your recruiter will show you all the available jobs then go over where the job is located and the pay. If you have a particular place in mind you would let your recruiter know and they will see if they have any jobs available in that location. And no I did not have any problems landing a job after graduating.

[@reannakremer3870]

Hey queen do you have to attend an NAACLS accredited school? Or can you just attend a program that will allow you to sit for the ASCP exam please help:(

[@luciem4562]

Has to be accredited

[@ambitiousbeauty1013]

Whats the difference between a certified lab tech and a certified lab assistant?

[@mary.organista]

Would you say that the medical laboratory technician program was competitive to get into?

[@jeremiahshelton5709]

I know I am not her, but it really isn't competitive to get into the program, but like she has stated, most hospitals perfer techs to have their certification from the ASCP cause it is national renowned, so if you have a different certification and another person has the ASCP certification they will hire that person before you so I strongly recommend taking the ASCP certification exam. thats how I have been taught and been told by hospital administrators.

[@luciem4562]

It is very competitive to become an MLS, not sure about the technician program

[@shesqueen_esther]

Hello.. I have a 2 year national diploma in science laboratory technology. I want to study medical lab technology in the USA. How possible is it?

[@derekaray]

I'm not 100% sure about this. I would say start with ASCP Examination Eligibility Assistant apps.ascp.org/BOCROUTEFINDER to see if you qualify to be certified. Also, check out AAB another certification company.Look over there MLT Qualifications. www.aab.org/aab/MLT.asp

[@kennediecoleman6183]

I’m from Memphis toooo! I recently graduated from UofM school of health science. Is this related to your degree or did they provide training?

[@amazingme894]

is a medical lab technologist and med lab technician the same thing in America? I'm from Canada, and the technologist positions has more schooling and all that than a technician. the technician sort of works under the technologist kinda. So I'm wondering which is it

[@den9847]

No a technician is usually done in 2 years with an associates degree while a technologist requires a bachelors.

[@courtlandtpalton3441]

Hey I see your from TN did the TN reconnect program pay for the whole program at Southwest ?

[@NeneGiordano]

People lab technologist and lab technicians are two different things . FYI

[@alanaluv5518]

where did u get those iridescent lightbulbs on your wall

[@alexirhapsody1432]

MEMPHIS TN REP YES MAAM! You go.

[@najid6908]

Where have you done your program? How many months?

[@tinyUbay81]

Thank you for sharing. I only have GED because I did not graduate high school here in United State. I graduated from another nation lol, Do I qualify to go to school as a Medical Lab Tech.?

[@simplyp5521]

Of course

[@cher21147]

Thanks for the video and the encouragement sis! Means a lot to get advise from one of our own. Much love and success 🙌❤🙂

[@yamankahamba287]

hi can you help me / i m the new in usa chicago for my school tech lab

[@derekaray]

I’m here to help! What do you need help with exactly?

[@CeeCLove]

I'm currently in my last two clinical rotations. Do you have any tips on passing the BOC?

[@mohonamukta190]

I am also interested from Bangladesh.

[@luciem4562]

Sign up for practice exams on the ASCP exams. Score at least 50-55% on those exams and you’ll pass the real one.

[@isittrueisitnot3303]

Do you mostly sit or stand in your job, I have some lower back problems so I prefer sitting..

[@luciem4562]

Both

[@isittrueisitnot3303]

@@luciem4562 yee fast forward in the future, i am 2nd year student of MLD and we realised many things one of which is that one, but thank you 😊

[@camecia9]

Memphis here!!!!!

[@bythelight99]

Would you recommend someone to become an mlt or mt? And why?

[@Mattzombie6]

for someone wanting to go into schooling for MLT, what would you recommend (if anything) they study before they even start the program

[@jeremiahshelton5709]

I am currently in MLT program, you definitely will need to study and read on Anatomy and physiology, cause my school requires that class I don't know if it is all shcool but most schools do, but another thing if you do decide to go into MLT program, then you should also read on microbiology, and immunology, cause a lot of microbiology goes with your immunology, thats how it is for me.

[@Mattzombie6]

@@jeremiahshelton5709 thanks

[@luciem4562]

Immunology, histology

[@Defsoulss]

Do you learn to draw blood in the program?

[@krystalyoo3674]

I’m curious… do you need a bs degree in mlt to work in the hospital or elsewherr?

[@luciem4562]

Associate degree = MLT (technician) Bachelor degree = MLS (scientist)

[@CookWithPabitra]

hi friends 😍anybody knows medical laboratory? please let me know, i am confused 🤔10 weeks class is this( inoff )

[@bretthong6137]

So you don't need a degree? I can go to a tech school?

[@luciem4562]

You need a degree to work. You will get it from the tech school that you’ll attend.

[@cornelianunanadosu]

Does medical laboratory scientists same as medical laboratory technicians 11:18

[@sparkoyle6265]

Did you have to do clinicals in the hospital?

[@luciem4562]

I am an MLS and we had 4 months of clinicals at a hospital

[@UTNguyen-su8yn]

Hi I was MLT. Also. CNA

[@goddaniel9478]

Okay you fine too 👀❤

[@imcandyhadds]

For the ASCP exams does the school lab experience count?

[@jeremiahshelton5709]

I know I aint here but the school i am currently attending, lab experience counts to know what you are doing, and to get it worked into your memory, for the certification exam, but sometime you probably wont have time to do labs with all the information needing to be met during that week, so when you don't get to do a lab on that specific test, then you will need to remember how to do that test just by reading about it.

[@luciem4562]

No

[@randomshiz8622]

If I just have a nursing degree can I do this?

[@luciem4562]

No, you need to go to school a second time specifically to be a technician or MLS

[@ummmhi5471]

Thank you babygirl

[@hustlingguy7676]

Does it need math to become a medical lab technologist or a pcb student can go for it

[@silsyaguera3889]

If I have a Bachelor degree in Science of Biochemistry, How long does a program take to become in Med lab tech? at least one especific area like Chemistry for example, and how much is it ?

[@luciem4562]

1 and 1/2 years in Oregon

[@Xedits-bm2oz]

can you carry a calculator with you? hahhah

[@luciem4562]

Obviously

[@vencebuchanan]

❤

[@lupitacarrillo9761]

I'm 30 Do you think I'm too old to start this career?

[@derekaray]

Absolutely not!! People of all different ages work in the lab. I had a coworker that graduated at 32, so no I do not think you’re to old to start🤗

[@lupitacarrillo9761]

@@derekaray thank you

[@luciem4562]

I was 31 my first semester of MLS school. Oldest person in my class was 36

[@sanjeevfalshyana]

Nice

[@gracicrosby3700]

Hey question! I’m a senior really looking into this job, do you have to be good at chemistry to do this job? I’m ok at it but not a pro at all!! Thank you your videos have really helped me!

[@jeremiahshelton5709]

chemistry is a part of it, but like she said you do get taught how to do the things needed for every type of test. In my MLT I have to take two chemistry classes chemistry gen Ed, and ap chemistry. but like she also said you will need to prioritize, which i am bad at cause as of rn while i am typing it, i am not doing my homework, but you will need a mental rest every now and then cause it is alot of material in just a semester, so remember to take mental rests to gather all the information learned.

[@luciem4562]

The chemistry you learn in the program is very different from your general chemistry courses. No, you don’t need to be good at it.

[@Imenebenmariem]

If we work at a private laboratory we need to know everything including drawing blood doing any sort of sampling! In hospitals it's the work of nurses!