Top 11 Medical Laboratory Technologist Certifications

Certifications for medical laboratory technologists are important for two reasons. First, they demonstrate a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field, which is essential to be successful and competitive in the job market. Second, certifications provide employers with assurance that a technologist has the necessary skills and abilities to perform their job duties safely and accurately. Certification also allows employers to verify that a technologist has met the standards set by professional organizations and regulatory bodies, such as The American Society for Clinical Pathology or The National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel. Therefore, having certifications can help medical laboratory technologists stand out among other applicants when applying for jobs in their field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Medical Laboratory Technologists and explains how they can help to advance a medical laboratory technologist's career.

What are Medical Laboratory Technologist Certifications?

Medical laboratory technologist (MLT) certification is a voluntary credential that is awarded to individuals who have met specific requirements in the field of medical laboratory technology. This certification demonstrates a level of proficiency and competency in this specialized field, and it helps MLTs stand out from other healthcare professionals.

The requirements for MLT certification vary by organization, but typically include completing an accredited program in medical laboratory technology, passing an exam, and having a certain amount of work experience in the field. The exam covers topics such as hematology, immunology, clinical chemistry, urinalysis and body fluids, microbiology, phlebotomy techniques, and safety procedures.

Having MLT certification can be beneficial for those who seek employment in the healthcare industry. It can also provide career advancement opportunities for those already employed as MLTs or related positions. Certification may be required or preferred by employers because it shows that the individual has demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field. Additionally, employers may view certified professionals as more reliable than non-certified ones.

Finally, having MLT certification can open up new job opportunities both within the medical laboratory setting and outside of it. For example, certified MLTs may find employment in research laboratories or educational settings where they can use their advanced knowledge to teach others about medical laboratory technology.

Pro Tip: Always make sure to check the requirements for medical laboratory technologist certification in your state and/or country before beginning the process. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, so it’s important to know what’s expected of you before getting started.

Related: What does a Medical Laboratory Technologist do?

Top 11 Medical Laboratory Technologist Certifications

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

1. American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Certification

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge and competency in the field of clinical pathology. The ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) offers certifications in nine different areas, including Medical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Technician, Histotechnician, Histotechnologist, Cytotechnologist, Phlebotomy Technician, Quality Assurance Technologist, Molecular Biologist and Immunohematology Reference Technologist.

To obtain an ASCP certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by the BOC. Depending on the type of certification sought, exams can take anywhere from two to five hours to complete. Most exams are offered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States and Canada.

In order to be eligible to sit for an ASCP exam, applicants must meet certain educational requirements or have completed a formal training program approved by the BOC. Additionally, some certifications may require applicants to have one or more years of professional experience in the field before taking the exam.

The cost of each exam varies depending on which type of certification is being pursued; however, most exams range from $200-$400 USD. In addition to the cost of the exam itself, there may also be additional fees associated with obtaining study materials and/or registering for the exam.

Once all requirements have been met and an individual has passed their respective ASCP exam(s), they will receive their official certificate within 8-10 weeks after passing their final test. The certificate will be valid for three years from its issue date; however individuals must maintain their credentials by completing continuing education credits every three years in order to remain certified.

2. American Medical Technologists (AMT) Certification

American Medical Technologists (AMT) Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in the field of medical technology. It is an internationally recognized credential that can be used to demonstrate proficiency and expertise in a variety of medical technology disciplines.

The AMT certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on the individual's experience level. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, pass an examination, and submit proof of professional experience. The exam consists of questions related to medical terminology, laboratory procedures, quality control, safety practices and regulations, patient care techniques, and other topics related to the field.

To get started with the AMT certification process, applicants must first register online or by mail with AMT. Once registered, applicants will receive information about the application process and exam requirements. Applicants must then submit their application materials along with all required documents such as transcripts or diplomas from accredited programs and proof of professional experience. After all materials are received and reviewed by AMT staff members, applicants will be notified if they have been approved for testing.

The cost for taking the AMT certification exam varies depending on the type of test taken; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or submitting application materials.

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

National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) Certification is a voluntary certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform laboratory tests and procedures. The NCA certification program is designed to ensure that certified personnel possess the skills, knowledge, and abilities required to perform laboratory tests and procedures accurately and safely.

It typically takes around six months to complete the entire NCA process. The first step is to register with the NCA online application system. Once registered, applicants will need to submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a resume. After submitting all of the required documents, applicants must then take an exam in order to be eligible for certification.

Once all of these steps are completed, applicants will receive their NCA certificate in the mail within four weeks after passing the exam.

The cost of obtaining an NCA certification varies depending on whether you are taking an individual or group examination. An individual examination costs $200 plus any applicable taxes, while a group examination costs $400 plus any applicable taxes.

4. National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) Certification

The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) is a non-profit organization that provides accreditation to educational programs in the clinical laboratory sciences. NAACLS certification is recognized by the US Department of Education as an acceptable accrediting agency for clinical laboratory science programs.

NAACLS certification is designed to ensure that students receive quality education and training in the various areas of clinical laboratory sciences, such as medical technology, cytotechnology, histotechnology, phlebotomy, and molecular diagnostics. The certification process requires programs to meet specific criteria related to curriculum content, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, and other standards.

It typically takes two years or more to complete the NAACLS certification process. During this time, program directors must submit a self-study report and provide evidence that their program meets all of the standards set forth by NAACLS. Once the self-study report has been reviewed and approved by NAACLS staff members, an onsite visit is conducted by a team of experts who review all aspects of the program and make sure it meets all requirements for accreditation. After successful completion of this process, the program will be awarded with full NAACLS certification.

The cost associated with obtaining NAACLS certification varies depending on factors such as program size and complexity; however, most programs can expect to pay several thousand dollars in fees for application materials and site visits. Additionally, some programs may need to hire consultants or other professionals to assist them with meeting NAACLS standards or preparing their self-study reports.

5. American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certification

The American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) is a professional organization that provides certification for laboratory professionals in the field of bioanalysis. The AAB offers two levels of certification: Certified Bioanalytical Scientist (CBS) and Certified Senior Bioanalytical Scientist (CSBS). Both certifications require a comprehensive written examination and successful completion of a practical exam.

The CBS certification requires a minimum of three years of full-time experience in the field, while the CSBS certification requires five or more years. To be eligible to take the exams, applicants must have completed an accredited college program or equivalent training in bioanalysis and have at least one year of relevant work experience.

To apply for either exam, applicants must submit an application form with supporting documentation such as transcripts, references, and proof of work experience. The application fee is $200 for either exam. Once approved, applicants can register for the exams online through the AAB website.

The written portion of both exams consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The practical portion consists of hands-on laboratory exercises that are designed to test competency in various aspects of bioanalysis. It takes an additional four hours to complete this portion.

Once both parts are successfully completed, applicants will receive their AAB certification within six weeks from the date they took their exams. The cost for both exams is $650 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

6. American Association of Clinical Chemistry (AACC) Certification

The American Association of Clinical Chemistry (AACC) is a non-profit organization that provides certification to qualified clinical laboratory professionals. AACC certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a professional's knowledge and expertise in the field of clinical chemistry.

AACC certification typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the individual's experience and background. In order to obtain AACC certification, applicants must have at least two years of relevant work experience, successfully complete a comprehensive examination, and meet all other requirements set forth by the AACC.

To get started on the path to obtaining AACC certification, interested individuals must first fill out an application and submit it along with the required fees. The total cost of obtaining AACC certification varies depending on the type of exam taken and other factors. Generally speaking, it can range from $300-$1000 USD. Once all requirements are met, applicants will be notified if they have passed or failed their exam within four weeks.

In addition to demonstrating proficiency in clinical chemistry, having an AACC certification can also open up career opportunities for those seeking employment in clinical laboratories or research facilities. It can also help individuals stand out among their peers when applying for promotions or higher positions within their current workplace.

7. American Society of Cytopathology (ASC) Certification

The American Society of Cytopathology (ASC) Certification is a voluntary certification program for cytopathologists. The purpose of the program is to recognize and promote excellence in the field of cytopathology. The ASC Certification is designed to provide assurance that certified cytopathologists have met rigorous standards of knowledge, experience, and practice in the specialty.

To obtain ASC Certification, an applicant must meet certain eligibility requirements, including:

• Completion of a residency training program in anatomic pathology or clinical pathology accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC).
• Current board certification or equivalent in anatomic pathology or clinical pathology by either the American Board of Pathology (ABP) or RCPSC.
• A minimum of two years’ experience as a practicing cytopathologist within five years prior to applying for certification.
• Successful completion of an approved examination process administered by the ASC.

The ASC Certification process takes approximately six months from application submission to notification regarding successful completion. To begin the certification process, applicants must submit an application along with supporting documentation and fees. Once their application has been accepted, applicants will be required to take a written exam which consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as cytomorphology, diagnostic techniques and laboratory management. Upon successful completion of this exam, applicants will then be required to complete a practical examination which assesses their ability to accurately diagnose specimens using light microscopy.

The cost for obtaining ASC Certification varies depending on whether you are an active member or non-member of the American Society of Cytopathology. For active members, there is an initial fee of $350 plus $100 for each additional year beyond three years that you have been actively practicing as a cytopathologist; for non-members, there is an initial fee of $550 plus $150 for each additional year beyond three years that you have been actively practicing as a cytopathologist.

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

The International Society for Clinical Laboratory Technology (ISCLT) is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of clinical laboratory science, technology, and practice. ISCLT offers certification programs that are designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their field.

ISCLT Certification is available in four areas: Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT), Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), Clinical Chemistry Technologist (CCT), and Clinical Microbiology Technologist (CMT). Each certification requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and competency through an exam.

The exam process typically takes between six to eight weeks from the time of application submission to the time results are received. To apply for certification, you must complete an online application form and submit it with the required documents and fees. The fee for each certification varies depending on your country of residence; however, all fees are non-refundable.

Once your application has been approved, you will be given access to study materials and practice exams which will help you prepare for the actual exam. Once you have completed the exam, your results will be sent to ISCLT within two weeks of taking the test. If you pass, you will receive an official certificate confirming your certification status as a Medical Laboratory Technician or Scientist, Clinical Chemistry Technologist or Clinical Microbiology Technologist.

9. American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB) Certification

American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a bioanalytical scientist. It is administered by the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) and is recognized as an international standard for bioanalytical professionals.

The ABB certification process involves passing an examination that tests the individual’s knowledge in areas such as laboratory safety, quality assurance, sample preparation, instrumentation, data analysis, and report writing. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Individuals must also submit proof of at least two years of experience in a bioanalytical laboratory in order to be eligible for certification.

In order to obtain ABB certification, individuals must first register with AACC and pay the applicable fees. After registering, individuals will receive information on how to prepare for the exam. Once they have completed their preparation, individuals can then register for the exam online or by mail. The cost of registration varies depending on whether it is done online or by mail; however, both options are typically around $200 USD.

Once registered for the exam, individuals will be sent an email with instructions on how to access their online account where they can view their exam results after taking the test. If they pass the exam, they will receive their official ABB certificate within 2-3 weeks via email or postal service.

Overall, obtaining ABB certification requires dedication and hard work but can provide many benefits such as increased credibility among employers and peers as well as greater job opportunities in bioanalytical laboratories around the world.

10. Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Certification

The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Certification is a certification program that recognizes medical laboratory professionals who have achieved the highest level of training and expertise in their field. The CSMLS Certification is a voluntary process that provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate excellence in the practice of medical laboratory science.

The CSMLS Certification process consists of two steps: an application process and an examination process. To apply, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts, references, and proof of work experience. Once the application is approved, applicants are eligible to take the CSMLS Certification Examination.

The CSMLS Certification Examination is a two-part exam consisting of a theoretical component and a practical component. The theoretical component tests knowledge in areas such as anatomy and physiology, clinical chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology, transfusion science, and urinalysis. The practical component tests competency in areas such as specimen collection, analysis techniques, quality assurance practices, safety protocols, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to complete the entire CSMLS Certification process from start to finish. The cost of the certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought; however it generally ranges from $500 - $1,000 CAD plus applicable taxes.

11. International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science (IFBLS) Certification

The International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science (IFBLS) is an international non-profit organization that provides certification for biomedical laboratory professionals. The IFBLS certification is a way to demonstrate that a biomedical laboratory professional has the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform their job duties in a safe and effective manner.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain educational requirements and pass an examination. The application process typically takes between six months and one year. Applicants must submit official transcripts from their educational institutions as well as other documents such as letters of recommendation or proof of work experience. Once all documents are received, the applicant will be assigned an exam date and time.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion consists of multiple choice questions related to the topics covered in the study material provided by IFBLS. The practical portion consists of hands-on exercises designed to test the applicant’s ability to perform specific tasks related to biomedical laboratory science.

Once both portions of the exam have been completed, applicants will receive their results within four weeks. If successful, they will be awarded IFBLS certification which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD plus any additional fees associated with submitting documents or taking practice tests prior to taking the exam itself.

Do You Really Need a Medical Laboratory Technologist Certificate?

Yes, you do need a Medical Laboratory Technologist Certificate to practice as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. This certificate is awarded by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and is proof of your knowledge and skills in laboratory technology. It shows that you have met the educational requirements for this profession and are qualified to perform laboratory tests and procedures safely and accurately.

Having a Medical Laboratory Technologist Certificate is important because it demonstrates that you have the necessary knowledge, skill, and experience to work in this field. It also shows employers that you can be trusted with patient samples and information. Additionally, many states require medical technologists to have a certification from ASCP in order to practice their profession.

In order to obtain the Medical Laboratory Technologist Certificate, you must complete an accredited program in medical laboratory science or technology, pass an examination administered by ASCP, and maintain your certification through continuing education credits every three years. This process ensures that medical technologists stay up-to-date on advances in laboratory technology so they can provide accurate results for patients.

Having a Medical Laboratory Technologist Certificate is essential if you want to work as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. With this certification, you can demonstrate your qualifications and gain the trust of employers so they know that they can rely on you for accurate results when testing patient samples.

Related: Medical Laboratory Technologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Medical Laboratory Technologist Certifications

Q1. What is a Medical Laboratory Technologist Certification?

A1. A Medical Laboratory Technologist Certification is a credential that recognizes the professional expertise of individuals who have completed an accredited program in medical laboratory technology and have passed an exam for certification. It is also an indication of their commitment to quality patient care and safety in the laboratory setting.

Q2. How do I become a Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist?

A2. In order to become a Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT), you must complete an accredited program in medical laboratory technology, pass the required examination, and meet any other state requirements for licensure or certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist?

A3. Becoming a Certified Medical Laboratory Technologist provides numerous benefits both professionally and personally. Professionally, it demonstrates your commitment to quality patient care and safety in the laboratory setting, as well as your proficiency in performing complex tests and procedures accurately and efficiently. Additionally, it can open up new career opportunities, provide recognition among peers, increase salary potential, and provide greater mobility within the field of medical laboratory technology. Personally, it can provide satisfaction from achieving a goal as well as increased confidence in one’s skills and ability to perform at a higher level than before certification was achieved.

Q4. What are some of the requirements for maintaining my Certification?

A4: To maintain your certification as a MLT, you must fulfill continuing education requirements set by the certifying organization every two years or be recertified by taking another exam after five years have elapsed since initial certification was granted. Additionally, you must abide by all applicable laws governing medical laboratory practice in your state or jurisdiction where you work or reside; adhere to ethical standards; comply with any applicable regulations issued by accrediting bodies; demonstrate professional integrity; maintain current knowledge regarding developments related to medical laboratory technology; participate actively in activities related to advancing science-based knowledge through research; and remain current on technological advances related to diagnostic testing procedures and equipment used in medical laboratories.

Q5: Where can I find more information about Certifications for Medical Laboratory Technologists?

A5: The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is a great resource for obtaining more information about certifications available for Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs). They offer various types of MLT certifications such as Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) or Specialist (CLSp), Histotechnician (HT), Histotechnologist (HTL), Cytotechnologist (CT), Molecular Biologist/Genetic Scientist (MB/GS), Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) etc., along with detailed information on eligibility criteria, application process, fees etc., You may also contact your local state board of health laboratories or relevant educational institutions for further information regarding certifications available for MLTs