Medical Laboratory Technology, A.A.S.

A45420  Total credit hours: 67

The Medical Laboratory Technology curriculum prepares individuals to perform clinical laboratory procedures in chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and immunohematology that may be used in the maintenance of health and diagnosis/treatment of disease.

Course work emphasizes mathematical and scientific concepts related to specimen collection, laboratory testing and procedures, quality assurance, and reporting/recording and interpreting findings involving tissues, blood, and body fluids.

Graduates may be eligible to take examinations given by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification. Employment opportunities include laboratories in hospitals, medical offices, industry, and research facilities.

Upon successful completion of this program, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills with consumers and coworkers.
2. Apply critical thinking to solve problems related to clinical lab procedures.
3. Utilize current technologies to access and process information.
4. Demonstrate the academic knowledge and technical skills necessary for entry-level medical laboratory practice.
5. Display professionalism and interdependence by projecting a positive attitude, working as a team member, showing initiative and responsibility, and displaying sensitivity to diversity.

Program Outcome Goals

Graduation Rate:  At least 70% of those entering the second half of the program (first clinical rotation) will graduate from the program.  Program Completion Rate: 2015-2017 - 90%

Passing Rate for Certification Exams:  At least 75% of those graduating in a given year will pass the Board of certification examination within the first year of graduation.  Certification Exam Pass Rate: 2015-2017 - 94%

Employment of Graduates:  At least 70% of graduates who seek employment will be successful in obtaining employment in MLT or continue their education within one year of graduation.  Job Placement Rate: 2015-2017 - 100%

Graduate Satisfaction:  At least 90% of graduates will evaluate the quality of instruction, their ability to perform as an entry-level MLT, and the impact of the program on the quality of life in positive terms.  Graduate Satisfaction Rate: 100%

Accreditation

The Medical Laboratory Technology program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119, 773.714.8880.

Technical Standards

In addition to DCCC requirements and course objectives, there are professional standards that encompass communication, motor skills, sensory and cognitive ability and professional conduct that are essential for the competent study and practice of medical laboratory technology. These technical standards are published in the application for admission to health programs and the program student handbook. Medical Laboratory Technology Technical Standards  (PDF)

Admission Requirements

Applicants for admission to the Medical Laboratory Technology program must complete the requirements for admission as described in the Medical Laboratory Technology Information Packet.

NOTE: Meeting all admission requirements does not guarantee placement into the Medical Laboratory Technology program.

Advanced Placement/Transfer Credit for Medical Laboratory Technology Courses

The decision regarding transfer credit for medical laboratory technology courses is made by the Director of the program in consultation with members of the faculty and the Associate Dean. Syllabi for courses for which credit is requested will be required.

Progression Requirements

A student must earn a grade of “C” or better in all MLT prefix courses in order to progress in the program.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check, drug screen, and up-to-date immunizations are required by the clinical site prior to participation in the clinical component.

If any clinical facility denies a student’s participation in clinical experiences in that clinical agency, the student will not be able to progress in the program.

NOTE: Special legal requirements exist which may limit the ability of an individual to obtain clinical experience, employment, or certification in the Medical Laboratory Technology field. Prospective students should obtain additional information from a College counselor or program faculty member prior to seeking admission.