Read on to find out how to break into a lab-related career in the medical field by studying medical technology. Learn about program prerequisites, common classes and the career outlook for jobs in the field.
What Can I Expect From a Bachelor's Degree in Medical Technology?
Earning a bachelor's degree in medical technology trains you to work as a medical technologist, performing tests and analyzing results, which are then delivered to a physician. In this program, you' will learn how to examine cells and bodily fluids in a laboratory setting. This includes searching for harmful bacteria, checking the content and amount of various chemicals in samples, testing for matches for blood transfusions and performing drug tests. You will also learn to gather samples, check for anomalies, count cells, and operate necessary lab equipment, including microscopes, cell counters, statistical software and various imaging technologies.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Bachelor's Degree: Practical Skills</b></td><td> Examination of cells and bodily fluids in laboratory settings, Performing and analyzing various tests, Operation of necessary lab equipment</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Educational Prerequisites</b></td><td> Minimum: HS diploma or equivalent; SAT/ACT scores</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Classes</b></td><td> Chemistry, biology, anatomy, laboratory techniques, hematology</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td> $54,180 (<i>for all clinical laboratory technologists and technicians</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 7% growth (<i>for all clinical laboratory technologists and technicians</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatAreTheEducationalPrerequisites">What Are the Educational Prerequisites?</h3><p>The minimum requirement for consideration for admission is a high school diploma or its equivalent; however, many times, the most competitive applicants are those with associate's degrees in medical technology or a related field, like biology or nursing. You should also expect to submit ACT or SAT scores, letters of recommendation and a personal statement. Some selective programs may also ask for records of work experience.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatClassesWillITake">What Classes Will I Take?</h3><p>This degree program can be completed in 3-5 years and usually culminates in a comprehensive exam. Instruction combines both theoretical and clinical training. Here are a few classes you might find in the curriculum:
</p><ul><li>Chemistry
</li><li>Biology
</li><li>Anatomy and physiology
</li><li>Cell biology
</li><li>Laboratory techniques
</li><li>Organic chemistry
</li><li>Hematology
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatAreMyJobAndSalaryProspects">What Are My Job and Salary Prospects?</h3><p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (<i>www.bls.gov</i>) reported an expected employment rate increase for medical technologists of 7% between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than average for all occupations. Growth in this profession is due to population growth, an aging baby boomer population and the development of new tests. The median annual salary for medical technologists was $54,180 as of May 2020. The highest-paid medical technologists earned $83,700, while the lowest made $31,450.</p>
