Medical laboratory scientists play a vital role on the health care team, working with pathologists, scientists and clinicians to provide quality patient care. They are highly skilled professionals who perform tests to analyze blood, urine and other body fluids, helping physicians prevent, detect and treat disease and monitor therapy. In fact, it has been estimated that 60 to 70 percent of all critical decisions regarding a patient's diagnosis and treatment are based on laboratory test results.
Medical laboratory science is a rewarding, high tech career. The profession combines the rewards and challenges of both medicine and science. The opportunities for a certified medical laboratory scientist are varied and exciting.
Most medical laboratory scientists are employed by hospital or clinic laboratories, but others use their knowledge and skills in research, industry, physicians' office laboratories, sales, public health, computer operations, veterinary clinics, education, laboratory management or as self-employed consultants.
Tests performed by medical laboratory scientists vary from simple to complex, requiring skill, knowledge and problem-solving ability. Medical laboratory scientists must be able to identify disease-causing microorganisms, abnormalities in blood cells and blood chemistries and are also responsible for the operation and maintenance of complex instruments.
Employment and Salary
Graduates of medical laboratory science programs generally have no problem finding employment. Both full and part-time positions are available. Medical laboratory scientists are currently in high demand throughout the United States. Eighty-five percent of our graduates have reported obtaining a job within three months of graduation.
A 2022 survey by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the mean salary for medical laboratory scientists in Texas was $25.60/hr or $53,240/yr. Laboratory supervisors and administrative technologists can expect to make more. New graduates can expect to make less.
