Medical Technician Training for Excellent Career Prospects

Medical technicians are in demand, with new jobs being created every year. Take your first step toward a fulfilling career in laboratory testing with certification from an approved college.

by Jane Smallman
jane.smallman@college-degrees-search.com
College Degrees Search Columnist

If you have an aptitude for science and want to work in health care, why not train as a medical laboratory technician? An associate degree or certificate from an approved college will qualify you for entry-level jobs and get you onto the first rung of the career ladder.

Medical Technicians Can Look Forward to More Jobs

Taking blood samples, analyzing body fluids, counting cells—this is the sort of work that makes up a typical medical technician’s day, and it is a workload that is increasing.

The number of medical laboratory tests carried out in the United States is growing, partly due to the development and introduction of new tests and procedures, and partly to an aging population. Jobs for laboratory personnel are increasing, with employment levels forecast to grow faster than the average.

If this sort of medical laboratory work appeals to you, take advantage of the expansion in jobs by embarking on a career as a medical technician.

Training For a Medical Laboratory Technician Career

An associate degree or college diploma is the minimum requirement for most medical technician jobs, although on-the-job training is still available in a few places. These qualifications are on offer at a number of schools and colleges around the country, and can be earned in as little as fifteen months.

Ideally your college program should be approved by, and/or should prepare you for certification from one of the nationally recognized accrediting bodies, such as the National Center for Competency Training.

Where Can Medical Technician Training Take You?

Around half of all clinical laboratory personnel work in hospitals with the remaining fifty percent spread between medical and diagnostic laboratories, physician’s offices, and educational organizations.

Once you have some work experience you can improve your career prospects - and job satisfaction - by undertaking more training, with the option of working towards a bachelor’s degree. With this qualification you can gain “technologist” status, enabling you to carry out more complex tasks, take on extra responsibilities, and earn a higher salary.

Sources

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author

Jane Smallman combines freelance writing with running a mountain-guiding business with her husband. She has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in the Social Sciences.

Posted on May 16, 2007 at 12:37 PM

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