Medical Laboratory Technology
Area of Study: Medical Laboratory Technology
Degree/Certificate: Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Laboratory Technology
Academic School: Nursing and Health Professions
State of Ohio: Meets educational requirements
If you are not already an active Tri-C student, you must first apply to the College. If you are interested in more than one health careers program, you may indicate this on the Get Started form.
The Medical Laboratory Technology program at Cuyahoga Community College leads to an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree that provides students with an integrated curriculum of classroom work and abundant hands-on professional experience. The program offers students a solid foundation in mathematics, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, medical laboratory procedures, and medical ethics. This, along with the integrated liberal arts/general education courses and clinical field experience at a N.E. Ohio hospital, results in a high-quality, well-rounded program.
What is a Medical Laboratory Technician?
Modern medicine relies on laboratory data for over 70% of clinical decisions. As an MLT, you are the detective of the healthcare world. Your work in hematology, microbiology, blood bank, immunology, and clinical chemistry provides the vital data necessary for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
This profession offers diverse career environments depending on your interests. You may work in large-scale hospital systems managing high-volume runs for inpatient units, or in regional and rural facilities where you may act as a generalist across all lab departments. Additionally, MLTs are vital in outpatient clinics and physician offices, where the focus is often on rapid diagnostic results for ambulatory patients.
Are You a Good Candidate for MLT?
Success in the Medical Laboratory Technology program and the profession requires a specific blend of analytical ability, manual precision and professional responsibility.
Critical Thinking and Technical Skills: You need to be able to learn complex procedures and interpret laboratory data accurately. A successful MLT recognizes when results are inconsistent and takes the initiative to troubleshoot or correct procedures.
Precision and Attention to Detail: Because modern medicine relies on laboratory data for over 70% of clinical decisions, there is no margin for error. You must be committed to accuracy in every test you perform; each test is a person's life you are impacting.
Confidentiality and Ethics: Maintaining absolute patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations is a non-negotiable standard. You must treat all patient information and laboratory business with the highest level of professional ethics.