Career FAQs
Will I be Able to Find a Job?
The need for MLS professionals is increasing much faster than average! The demand for medical laboratory scientists continues to grow because of an increasing demand for diagnostic laboratory procedures.
The projects that the employment of MLS professionals will increase by 14% through the year 2018, producing 45,600 vacancies in the field. In other words,
How Much Money Will I Make?
The starting wages for MLS professionals are very competitive and increasing each year.
Although the actual salary depends heavily on geographical area and cost of living, in 2014 the median salary for MLS professionals was listed as $57,580/year (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014). Salaries increase as experience is gained and additional responsibilities are added.
What is Professional Certification?
Upon completion of the degree program, students are eligible to write the national exam offered for Medical Laboratory Scientists, sponsored by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
To become certified, students must first complete the degree program and then must successfully write a national certification examination.
Some states require a state license in order to practice as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.
What is Professional Membership?
As a student, you are encouraged to enroll in a professional organization. Membership entitles you to all privileges and benefits designated to student members, including receipt for professional journals and announcements of local, regional, and national meetings.
Medical Laboratory Scientists most commonly join the (ASCLS) and the (ASCP). Consider going to visit them now to find more information.
What about Graduate/Post-Professional Studies?
Our graduates have performed very well in their medical and dental studies, demonstrating that MLS is an excellent pre-medicine or pre-dentistry major. Others have pursued graduate studies in such areas as biomedical research, health care management, law, and education.
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