Medical laboratory scientists play a vital role on the health care team, working with pathologists and clinicians to provide quality patient care. 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 gratifying career. The profession combines the rewards and challenges of both medicine and science. The opportunities for a board certified medical laboratory scientist are on the forefront of precision medicine.
Most medical laboratory scientists are employed by hospital or clinic laboratories, but others use their knowledge and skills in research, industry, marketing, public health, information systems, bioinformatics, education, laboratory management or as consultants.
Tests performed by medical laboratory scientists require skill, knowledge, and problem-solving. Medical laboratory scientists 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 gain employment within 3 months. Medical laboratory scientists are currently in high demand throughout the United States. One hundred percent of our graduates have reported obtaining a job within three months of graduation for the last three years.
A 2022 survey by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the mean salary for medical laboratory scientists in Texas was $26.34/hr or $54.790/yr.
