Clinical laboratory science professionals work in hospital, medical, and research laboratories to analyze patient samples, providing information that assists physicians in diagnosis and treatment of disease. There are two major career tracks that Clinical Laboratory Scientists follow: Medical Laboratory Science and Histotechnology.
Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) have earned either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science. Medical Laboratory Scientists are trained to use technologically advanced biomedical analyzers, computers, and laboratory methods requiring manual testing to test blood and body fluids. The major disciplines of Medical Laboratory Science are Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology, Immunohematology, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology. A nationally recognized board exam must be passed for the MLS to earn nationally recognized certification in the field and licensure in states (such as Florida) that require professional licensure. The MLS is a vital part of the healthcare team, from diagnosis of disease through monitoring of treatment and maintenance of health. While the bachelor’s degree fully prepares individuals for entry into the profession, the master’s degree provides the MLS with the potential to move up in laboratory management and supervision, as well as the option to teach at the college level in an accredited MLS degree program.
Histotechnologists (HTL) have earned either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in Histotechnology. Histotechnologists are trained to use technologically advanced equipment and specialized tissue staining techniques to prepare tissue sections for microscopic examination. Histotechnologists work closely with Pathologists to diagnose diseases related to abnormal tissue morphology such as cancers, colitis, fibroids, and certain types of tissue infections. A nationally recognized board exam must be passed for the Histotechnologist to earn nationally recognized certification in the field and licensure in states (such as Florida) that require professional licensure. The Histotechnologist is a vital part of the healthcare team, from diagnosis of disease through monitoring of treatment and maintenance of health. While the bachelor’s degree fully prepares individuals for entry into the profession, the master’s degree provides the Histotechnologist with the potential to move up in laboratory management and supervision, as well as the option to teach at the college level in an accredited Histotechnology degree program.