Medical Laboratory Technology Degree Overview
The fully accredited, two-year Associate of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) degree program at Penn State Hazleton includes a two-semester clinical practicum experience in affiliated hospital laboratories. The MLT learns the most current laboratory techniques in a real laboratory setting.
Furthermore, the mission of the MLT degree program is to:
- Provide an excellent educational experience leading to an associate degree in Medical Laboratory Technology
- Prepare well-qualified graduates who are ready to become certified and enter the workforce as successful entry-level medical laboratory technicians
- Supply regional medical facilities with well-qualified graduates who can provide accurate and timely test results and demonstrate the commitment to quality healthcare required of the profession.
What Does a Medical Laboratory Technician Do?
The medical laboratory technician (MLT) works with a team of pathologists, technologists, and technicians to analyze patient samples to detect illness, provide information to enable treatment, and to ensure that the treatment will benefit the patient.
The MLT works in all areas of the medical laboratory such as microbiology, chemistry, hematology, serology, blood bank, and urinalysis. MLTs are qualified to perform routine tests as well as more complex procedures including analyzing blood for chemical components, typing blood to ensure safe transfusion, and identifying bacteria and other microorganisms.
If a graduate chooses to continue their education, the first year's courses will transfer to a major in microbiology, medical laboratory science, biology or related disciplines. Most hospitals or companies who hire MLTs will pay some or all of the employee's expenses to attain an advanced degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related discipline.
Accreditation
The Medical Laboratory Technology Program at Penn State Hazleton is fully accredited by:
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
5600 N. River Rd., Suite 720
Rosemont, IL 60018-5119
847-939-3597
http://www.naacls.org
Graduates of this accredited MLT program are eligible to take national certification examinations, such as the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification exam, to become certified as an MLT (ASCP).
Disclosures
Many U.S. states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map.
