North Carolina Medical Laboratory Technician Schools and Career Information

Demand for skilled professionals in the health care industry continues to rise as the nation's population grows increasingly older. There are plenty of well-paying careers to be found, although most of these jobs require postsecondary degrees or skills training. North Carolina medical lab technician programs help students gain the academic knowledge and practical skills they need to get started in this rewarding career.

Medical laboratory technicians (MLTs) collect fluid and tissue samples from patients, then test those samples in an effort to diagnose various diseases and ailments. Medical lab technicians generally hold an associate degree, although some employers may consider applicants who have graduated from career training programs. Those holding a bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology are typically referred to as Medical Laboratory Technologists. Both lab technicians and lab technologist work in a variety of settings - including labs, hospitals, and private physician's practices.

North Carolina Medical Lab Technician Schools

Aspiring medical lab technicians in North Carolina can find several other schools with training programs located throughout the state. North Carolina does not currently require lab techs to be licensed, however many employers prefer candidates who have passed the national certification exam issued by the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.

• Coastal Carolina Community College: Coastal Carolina Community College offers a 98-acre main campus located in Jacksonville, North Carolina. The school also has educational units at two nearby Marine Corps camps. Students can pursue associate degrees, occupational certificates, and professional diplomas while attending. The Medical Laboratory Technology program usually takes 2 years to complete. The first 52 credit hours are spent on classroom learning while practicums are completed at local hospitals for most of the second year. Graduates receive an associate degree and are eligible to sit for the national certification exam.
• Davidson County Community College: Davidson County Community College now has 2 locations, with one in Thomasville and the other found in Mocksville, located in Davie County. The college offers a variety of academic programs in business, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts. Students may also take part in a number of activities, events, and athletic teams. Completion of the Medical Laboratory Technology program results in an Associate's degree.
• Central Piedmont Community College: Serving the students of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County for over 50 years, Central Piedmont Community College offers both on-campus and distance learning options. Study abroad programs, corporate training, and personal enrichment courses are also available. Students enrolled in the Medical Laboratory Technology program can pursue an Associate of Arts degree and be prepared to sit for their national certification exams.
• Wayne Community College: Located in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Wayne Community College offers dozens of academic programs leading to associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas. Students enrolled in the medical technology program can gain academic knowledge and hands-on skills through a combination of classroom study and clinical experience. Successful completion of the program leads to an associate degree.

North Carolina Medical Lab Tech Programs

Medical lab technicians in North Carolina are trained professionals with a strong desire to help others through diagnosing diseases. Students contemplating a career as a medical lab tech should enjoy subjects such as chemistry and biology. Medical lab techs must be detail oriented and feel comfortable using scientific technologies like microscopes.

The State of North Carolina does not require medical lab technicians to obtain a license. However, many employers seek candidates who have earned their national certification by passing the national certification exam. Therefore, most North Carolina medical lab technician programs prepare students to sit for this test and design their curriculum around it. Some core courses may include:

• Intro to Anatomy and Physiology
• General Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Urinalysis
• Clinical Microbiology
• Hematology
• Environmental Biology
• Medical Terminology
• Intro to Health Technologies
• Medical Laboratory Techniques
• Medical Laws and Ethics
• Sterilization
• Immunology

Medical lab technicians must have the ability to collect bodily fluids and tissues, exhibit the physical stamina needed to work on their feet, and have physical dexterity in their hands. They may choose to specialize in certain areas once they have obtained relevant work experience.

Additional Requirements for Medical Lab Techs in North Carolina

North Carolina medical lab technician programs help students meet the needs of potential employers by providing the academic knowledge and hands-on skills required for entry-level employment. Successful completion of these programs typically results in an Associate's degree. Most schools require students to complete a practical clinical experience prior to graduation. Medical lab technicians in North Carolina are not required to be licensed by the state.

Sources:

1. Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2015-16 Edition, Bureau of Labor Statistics, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-and-clinical-laboratory-technologists-and-technicians.htm
2. Medical Laboratory Technology, Central Piedmont Community College, http://www.cpcc.edu/programs/39
3. Medical Laboratory Technology, Coastal Carolina Community College, https://www.coastalcarolina.edu/academics/websites/mlt/
4. Medical Laboratory Technology, Davidson County Community College, https://www.davidsonccc.edu/academics/health-wellness-public-safety/health-programs/medical-laboratory-technology
5. Medical Laboratory Technology, Wayne Community College, http://www.waynecc.edu/medical-laboratory/
6. Verification of Certification - State Licensure Agencies, American Society for Clinical Pathology, https://www.ascp.org/content/board-of-certification/verification-of-certification#tabs-state-licensure-agencies