Top 10 Lab Technologist Certifications

Certifications are an important way for lab technologists to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. They also show potential employers that the technologist is committed to their profession and has taken the time to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field. Certification can help a lab technologist stand out from other applicants, as it provides evidence of their qualifications and experience. Additionally, certifications can help a lab technologist gain access to specialized positions or higher pay grades. Finally, some employers may even require certain certifications for certain positions, making them a necessity for anyone looking to enter this field.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Lab Technologists and explain how they can enhance a lab technologist's career.

What are Lab Technologist Certifications?

Lab technologist certification is a credential that recognizes and validates the skills and knowledge of laboratory technicians who work in clinical and research laboratories. It is designed to demonstrate a technician’s commitment to quality and safety in their field. By obtaining lab technologist certification, technicians can demonstrate that they have the qualifications necessary for performing accurate and reliable laboratory tests.

Lab technologist certification can help technicians by providing them with an edge when competing for jobs or promotions. Having this certification also indicates to employers that the technician has been trained in the most current methods of testing and safety protocols, making them more desirable candidates. In addition, becoming certified shows a commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date on new developments in the field. This can open up more opportunities for professional development as well as provide access to specialized training courses or conferences. Furthermore, having lab technologist certification can provide technicians with greater job security since employers will know they are hiring a qualified individual who is capable of meeting their standards of accuracy and reliability.

Pro Tip: Make sure to keep up-to-date with the latest lab technologist certification requirements. Many certifications require continuing education credits to remain valid, so stay informed and be sure to complete any necessary coursework in a timely manner.

Related: What does a Lab Technologist do?

Top 10 Lab Technologist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Lab Technologists today.

1. Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

A Certified Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) is a professional who performs clinical laboratory tests and procedures in order to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. MLTs use sophisticated instruments, equipment, and software to analyze specimens such as blood, urine, tissue samples, and other body fluids. They also prepare reagents and perform quality control checks on laboratory results.

It typically takes two years of post-secondary education to become an MLT. Most programs include courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, laboratory mathematics, safety practices, instrumentation techniques, hematology techniques, immunohematology techniques, clinical chemistry techniques, microbiology techniques and phlebotomy. After completing the program requirements you must pass a certification exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

The cost of becoming an MLT varies depending on the school you attend. Tuition costs can range from $2,500-$15000 per year depending on the institution. In addition to tuition fees there may be additional costs such as books and supplies or lab fees. It is important to research the cost of attending different schools before enrolling in a program in order to make sure it fits your budget.

Once certified as an MLT you will need to renew your certification every three years by completing continuing education credits or taking another certification exam. The cost for renewal varies but can range from $50-$200 depending on the type of renewal chosen.

2. Certified Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS)

A Certified Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) is a healthcare professional who specializes in performing laboratory tests to diagnose and treat diseases. CLSs are highly trained individuals who must have a bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related field, such as biology or chemistry, and must be certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

It typically takes four years to complete the education and training requirements necessary to become a CLS. During this time, students will need to complete courses in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, and other related topics. After completing their degree program, CLSs must then pass an exam administered by the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) before they can become certified.

In order to become certified as a CLS through the ASCP BOC, individuals must first submit an application and pay the applicable fee. The fee for initial certification is $195 for members of ASCP and $295 for non-members. Once approved, applicants must then take and pass the certification exam which consists of both written and practical components. The cost of taking the exam is $395 for members of ASCP and $495 for non-members.

Once certified as a CLS through the ASCP BOC, individuals are required to complete continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain their certification status. The cost of continuing education credits varies depending on what type of educational activity is completed.

3. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) is a professional certification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills of a phlebotomist. A CPT is responsible for collecting blood samples from patients in order to perform laboratory tests. They must have an understanding of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, safety practices, and patient care.

In order to become certified as a CPT, you must complete an accredited phlebotomy training program. These programs typically take 6-12 months to complete and include hands-on clinical experience. After completing the program, you must pass a national certification exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

The cost of the CPT certification varies depending on the program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 or more. Additionally, there may be fees associated with taking the ASCP exam such as an application fee and exam fee.

4. American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Certification

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is a professional membership organization that provides certification to individuals in the field of clinical laboratory science. ASCP certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the laboratory sciences. It is designed to ensure that those who practice in this field possess the necessary qualifications and expertise to provide quality services.

ASCP certification is available in several different areas, including Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), Histotechnician (HTL), Histotechnologist (HT) and Cytotechnologist (CT). The requirements for each of these certifications vary, but generally include completion of an accredited educational program and successful completion of a certification exam.

The length of time it takes to obtain ASCP certification depends on the individual’s educational background and experience. For those with no prior experience or education, it may take up to two years to complete all requirements for certification. For those with prior experience or education, it may take less than one year.

In order to get ASCP certified, individuals must first complete an accredited educational program in their chosen area of specialty. After completing the program, they must then pass a certification exam administered by the ASCP Board of Certification. Once they have passed the exam, they will be granted ASCP certification status.

The cost of obtaining ASCP certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought and whether or not any additional exams are required beyond the initial exam. Generally speaking, however, most individuals can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for their initial application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking additional exams or renewing their certifications every three years.

5. National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) Certification

The National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize laboratory personnel who demonstrate a high level of competency in their field. The NCA offers three levels of certification, each with its own set of criteria and requirements: Certified Laboratory Technician (CLT), Certified Medical Technologist (CMT), and Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS).

To become certified, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for the specific credential they are seeking. These requirements include completing an accredited training program in the field, passing a comprehensive written exam, and submitting proof of continuing education credits. The NCA also requires that applicants have at least one year of experience working in their chosen field prior to applying for certification.

The process of obtaining NCA Certification typically takes several months to complete. Applicants must first submit an application packet which includes proof of eligibility, official transcripts from their training program, and payment for the application fee. Once the application has been reviewed and approved by the NCA, applicants will be sent an authorization letter along with instructions on how to register for the written exam. After successfully passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate within 8-10 weeks.

The cost of obtaining NCA Certification varies depending on the type of credential sought. The CLT certification costs $150; CMT costs $200; and MLS costs $250. In addition to these fees, applicants may also be required to pay additional fees associated with registering for and taking the written exam.

6. American Medical Technologists (AMT) Certification

American Medical Technologists (AMT) Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their field and expertise in medical technology. It is awarded by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), a non-profit organization dedicated to certifying and recognizing healthcare professionals in the United States.

To obtain AMT Certification, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the certification being sought, but generally include a combination of education, experience, and/or continuing education credits.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's current level of knowledge and experience. Generally, it can take anywhere from three months to two years to become certified.

To get certified, individuals must first complete an application form and submit it along with any required documentation such as transcripts or proof of experience. Once this is done, they will need to register for and pass the certification exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics related to medical technology.

The cost of AMT Certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought and whether or not additional fees are required for things like background checks or continuing education credits. Generally speaking, certification fees range from $100-$400 USD.

7. National Association of Medical Technologists (NAMT) Certification

The National Association of Medical Technologists (NAMT) is a professional association that provides certification for medical technologists. The NAMT certification is a voluntary credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of medical technology. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in the practice of medical technology and provide them with recognition and credibility within the profession.

To obtain NAMT certification, applicants must have completed an accredited program in medical technology or its equivalent, have at least one year of full-time experience as a practicing medical technologist, and pass an exam administered by the NAMT. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as laboratory safety, laboratory management, clinical chemistry, hematology, immunology/serology, microbiology, parasitology/mycology, and clinical pathology.

The cost to apply for NAMT certification is $250. This fee covers the cost of the application process as well as the exam fee. Once you have applied for certification and passed the exam, you will receive your certificate within 4-6 weeks.

NAMT certification must be renewed every three years by completing 45 continuing education credits (CECs). CECs can be obtained through various activities such as attending conferences or workshops related to medical technology or taking online courses related to medical technology.

8. International Society for Clinical Laboratory Technology (ISCLT) Certification

The International Society for Clinical Laboratory Technology (ISCLT) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the professional expertise and knowledge of laboratory technicians. This certification is designed to provide employers with assurance that the technician has met certain standards of knowledge and experience in the field.

It typically takes about six months to complete the requirements for ISCLT Certification. The process begins with an online application, which includes providing documentation of current employment, education, and training in clinical laboratory technology. Once approved, applicants must pass an exam administered by ISCLT. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as medical terminology, laboratory safety, specimen collection and handling, and quality control procedures.

To become certified, applicants must also complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education credits within three years prior to applying for certification. These credits can be obtained through formal courses or on-the-job training activities related to clinical laboratory technology.

The cost for ISCLT Certification varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence. In general, it costs between $200-$400 USD to apply for certification. This fee covers the cost of the exam as well as any additional fees associated with obtaining continuing education credits.

9. American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certification

The American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the professional competency of individuals in the field of bioanalysis. The AAB Certification Program is designed to provide an objective, third-party assessment of an individual’s knowledge and skills related to bioanalysis.

To receive AAB Certification, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as laboratory safety, sample preparation, instrumentation, data analysis and interpretation, quality assurance/quality control, and regulatory guidelines. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the AAB Certification Exam, applicants must have a minimum of two years experience in a laboratory setting working with bioanalytical methods or techniques. Applicants must also submit documentation verifying their educational background and work experience.

The cost for taking the AAB Certification Exam is $350 USD. The fee includes the cost of the exam and access to online study materials. After successfully completing the exam, applicants will receive an official certificate from the AAB recognizing their achievement.

Once certified by the AAB, individuals can use their certification as evidence of their professional competence when seeking employment or promotion opportunities in bioanalysis related fields. In addition, certified professionals are required to maintain their certification through continuing education activities every five years in order to remain current with advances in technology and methodology within their field.

10. American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) Certification

The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) Certification is a voluntary certification program offered to laboratory professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field. This certification is available for both clinical laboratory scientists and medical laboratory technicians.

In order to get the ASCLS Certification, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements, which include having a degree from an accredited college or university in a related field, as well as at least one year of experience in a clinical laboratory setting. Once these requirements are met, applicants can then take the certification exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as safety standards, quality assurance and control, specimen collection and processing, instrumentation and analysis techniques.

The ASCLS Certification exam typically takes about three hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within 6-8 weeks.

The cost of taking the ASCLS Certification exam varies depending on whether you are an ASCLS member or not. For non-members, the fee is $250; for members it is $200.

Do You Really Need a Lab Technologist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals. For some, a lab technologist certificate may be essential for their career growth and success. For others, it may be unnecessary or even detrimental to their career goals.

For those looking to enter into a laboratory science field, a lab technologist certificate is often necessary in order to gain employment. This certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a laboratory setting. It also provides employers with assurance that the candidate is competent and can perform all of the duties required of them. In many cases, employers are willing to pay more for someone who holds a lab technologist certificate than they would for someone who does not have one.

For those already working in the field, having a lab technologist certificate may provide additional opportunities for advancement within their organization or even open up new job opportunities at other organizations. It also serves as proof of competency in the field which can make it easier to receive promotions or raises within an organization. Additionally, holding such a certification can provide an individual with greater credibility when seeking out new employment opportunities.

On the other hand, for those who are not interested in pursuing careers in laboratory science or do not need any additional credentials beyond what they currently possess, obtaining a lab technologist certificate may not be worth it financially or otherwise. The cost of obtaining such a certification can be quite high and there is no guarantee that it will result in any tangible benefits or improved job prospects.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a lab technologist certificate depends on your own personal career goals and objectives. If you feel that having such a certification would benefit your career prospects then it may be worth investing in one; however if you do not see any tangible advantage then you should probably look elsewhere for ways to advance your career path.

Related: Lab Technologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Lab Technologist Certifications

1. What is a Lab Technologist Certification?

A Lab Technologist Certification is a credential that validates the knowledge and skills of laboratory professionals in order to provide quality patient care. It is awarded by an accrediting body, such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA).

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Lab Technologist Certification?

The requirements vary depending on the certification; however, most require applicants to have completed an accredited program in laboratory science, have relevant work experience, and pass an exam.

3. How long does it take to obtain a Lab Technologist Certification?

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for and obtain a Lab Technologist Certification. This includes completing any necessary education or training, gaining relevant work experience, and taking and passing the certification exam.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements associated with maintaining a Lab Technologist Certification?

Yes, many certifying bodies require holders of their certifications to complete continuing education credits in order to maintain their credentials. The amount of credits required may vary depending on the type of certification held.

5. Is there financial assistance available for those seeking a Lab Technologist Certification?

Yes, some organizations offer scholarships or grants to help offset the cost of obtaining a lab technologist certification. Additionally, many employers may cover or reimburse part of or all of the expenses associated with obtaining and maintaining certifications for their employees.