Find Schools offering Laboratory Technician Degree Programs

• Laboratory technicians and technologists work in labs and run scientific tests that are part of larger projects.
• Open positions for laboratory workers are expected to be greater than the number of qualified applicants.
• Laboratory technologists have more education and expertise than technicians.

What does a Laboratory Tech do?

Clinical laboratory technicians and technologists use sophisticated lab equipment to prepare, and analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances. These tests play a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. There is a slight difference between a technician and a technologist; technicians will run less complicated lab tests and technologists are responsible for the more sophisticated testing. Close attention to detail is essential for this job because small differences or changes in test substances can be crucial in the results and technologists, in particular, should be proven problem solvers. Technologists and technicians are trained to work with infectious specimens by using proper methods of infection control and sterilization. Protective masks, gloves, and goggles are usually worn by all lab workers.

What is the job outlook for a Laboratory Technician?

Job opportunities for laboratory technicians and technologists are expected to be excellent. Hospitals will most likely be the major employer of laboratory technicians but private labs and doctor offices are expected to increase hiring of laboratory technicians. Experienced technologists may advance to supervisory positions in laboratories, such as chief clinical laboratory technologists, or may become laboratory managers in hospitals.

How much money will a Laboratory Technician make?

The average yearly salary of a laboratory technologist is $45,730, with a range between $32,000 and $63,000. The average annual salary of medical and clinical laboratory technicians is $30,840, with a range between $20,000 and $45,000. Health and retirement benefits vary by workplace.

How does one become a Laboratory Technician?

Most laboratory technologists have a bachelor's degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences. Medical and clinical laboratory technicians usually have an associate degree or a certificate in technician work. Some States require laboratory employees to be licensed or registered. Check with the State department of health for more specific information for each state.

What are the leading schools offering programs in Laboratory Technician?