As healthcare fields develop and become more competitive, higher certifications in fields like Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) are crucial for career advancement. Elevated certifications are evidence of high-level essential skills, enhancing employability and paving the road to better-paying roles.
Whether you’re just starting your MLS career or looking to advance, it is important to understand the different Medical Laboratory Science certifications available to you. We want to make sure you are selecting the right program for your personal and professional goals.
Top recognized MLS certifications
There are many different medical lab sciences certifications within the field, with a couple of standouts. Some of the most recognized certifications for MLS professionals are detailed below:
Certifications by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
As one of the most well-known MLS certification platforms, the ASCP offers credentials for different levels and specializations.
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS): A great foundational certificate for a broad-based mastery of essential laboratory skills.
- Specialist Certifications: ASCP also provides specialist certifications for niche fields. Credentials in smaller fields show higher expertise in specific laboratory disciplines.
Certifications by American Medical Technologists (AMT)
The AMT is another key certifier, offering credentials that emphasize quality improvement and patient safety. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, laboratory experience, or completion of an accredited program.
- Medical Laboratory Scientist: This certifies advanced knowledge in clinical laboratory practice. It focuses on quality improvement and safety measures. Those dedicated to top-notch patient care may want to further explore this program.
ASCP and AMT are only two of many certifiers. When researching other options, look for programs endorsed by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). NAACLS approval means the program meets industry standards in terms of preparing candidates for exams.
Certification requirements
Each certification has specific requirements, but some programs’ requirements overlap. Understanding these core requirements can help you prepare for the path ahead.
Education and training
Most MLS certifications require candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree, typically in the biological sciences, clinical laboratory sciences, or degrees in MLS. The most relevant fields of study include:
In addition to a bachelor’s degree, many certification programs require candidates to complete an accredited program through organizations like the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.
Experience
Applicants may be required to have hands-on laboratory experience. This ensures that candidates have developed knowledge in on-the-job tasks like sample analysis, quality control, and laboratory safety.
Exam details
Candidates must pass a certification exam after fulfilling educational and experience requirements. These exams often include multiple-choice questions that assess knowledge of specific scientific fields and sometimes specialty assessments if you are entering a niche field like blood banking.
Certification bodies like ASCP and AMT offer study guides, online courses, and practice exams to help candidates succeed.
Prepare for an exciting and in-demand career as a medical laboratory scientist!
Benefits of obtaining MLS certifications
Certification goes beyond a line on a résumé—it opens doors to professional growth and job stability, alongside benefits like:
- Professional validation. An MLS certification validates your mastery of essential skills. From this, employers see how capable you are of performing critical laboratory tasks.
- Increased job opportunities. Employers prefer or even require, that candidates possess certifications like ASCP or AMT. By obtaining an MLS certification, you position yourself as a top candidate for job openings you may not have been qualified for otherwise.
- Higher salaries. One of the most tangible benefits of certification is the potential for higher earnings. Certified MLS professionals tend to earn 15-20% higher than their non-certified peers.
- Specialization opportunities. Certification allows specialization. Certified MLS professionals can explore fields like microbiology, blood banking, or molecular diagnostics. This can open new career pathways and make for higher salaries. It also provides the chance to work in roles that align with personal interests and career goals.
Choosing the best MLS certification for you
With so many certification paths, how do you determine which one is right for you? Your decision should be based on personal and professional factors.
Personal interests
Consider your interests and passions. Do you enjoy working with infectious disease samples? If so, microbiology might be a great option. Are you drawn to the idea of leading teams? Certifications that support laboratory management roles might be your best fit.
Career aspirations
Some certifications lead to highly technical roles, while others position you for management or leadership positions. If academia or management is interesting, then you might benefit from an advanced specialist certification.
Location-specific requirements
Some certifications have greater value in specific regions or states. Be sure to research which certifications are most respected or required in the area where you plan to work. Certain hospitals or healthcare systems may prefer one certifying body over another.
Career prospects with MLS certifications
Pursuing certification can be a significant investment of time and effort. However, the long-term benefits can make an MLS certification worthwhile.
Access to higher roles
Certification positions you to advance into higher-level roles like:
- Senior technologist
- Lab manager
- Quality assurance officer
These roles come with greater responsibilities, higher pay, and opportunities for leadership.
Career advancement
Certification can open doors to positions in research, teaching, and laboratory management. It signals to employers that you have the technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and leadership potential needed for advanced roles.
Top MLS certifications from powerful institutions
Obtaining an MLS certification is a milestone in your career and a significant measure of professional growth, as these types of credentials provide a competitive edge widely recognized by employers. You’re on your way to earning a higher salary and finding more professional success along the way. Whether you’re looking for specialization, further research opportunities, or employment benefits, completing an MLS certification is a powerful investment in your future.
If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, consider University of Bridgeport’s MLS bachelor’s degree for foundational knowledge to meet certification requirements.