πŸ₯ Healthcare ↑ 7% growth Β· Faster than average

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

MLTs analyze blood, tissue, and body fluids to help physicians diagnose disease. They run the tests behind every diagnosis β€” from blood counts to bacterial cultures to drug screens. Lab work is methodical, detail-driven, and mostly behind the scenes.

$57,800 Median Salary
335K US Jobs
2 years Training
$8,000–$25,000 Typical Cost

πŸ’° Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages β€” local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$42,000
Median
$57,800
Experienced
$75,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

πŸ“ˆ Job Outlook

7%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Faster than average
335K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
AMT MLT or ASCP MLT
Required Credential
AMT MLT or ASCP MLT(ASCP) Certification

πŸŽ“ Training & Education

Typical Program
AAS in Clinical Laboratory Technology
Program Length
2 years
Typical Tuition
$8,000–$25,000
Work Setting
Hospital labs, reference labs, public health departments
πŸ† Credential Required: AMT MLT or ASCP MLT(ASCP) Certification

β˜€οΈ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Hospital labs environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • βœ… Strong job security
  • βœ… Rewarding work
  • βœ… Clear career progression
  • βœ… Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Community College
⭐ 90

Jefferson State Community College

πŸ“ Birmingham, AL

Largest community college in the Birmingham metro area (13,000+ students). Nationally recognized allied health programs ...

Nursing (RN/ADN)Surgical TechnologyRadiologic TechnologyRespiratory TherapyMedical Laboratory Technology
Community College
⭐ 88

Delaware Technical Community College – Wilmington Campus

πŸ“ Wilmington, DE

Urban campus in downtown Wilmington, Delaware's largest city. Largest of the four Del Tech campuses by enrollment. Hosts...

Nursing (RN/ADN)Dental HygieneRadiologic TechnologySurgical TechnologyMedical Laboratory Technology
Community College
⭐ 92

Jefferson Community and Technical College

πŸ“ Louisville, KY

Largest KCTCS college. Multiple Louisville campuses plus Carrollton, Shelbyville, and Shepherdsville. Most comprehensive...

Nursing (RN/ADN)LPNDental HygieneRadiologic TechnologySurgical Technology
Community College
⭐ 90

Bluegrass Community and Technical College

πŸ“ Lexington, KY

Serves Lexington and central Kentucky. Multiple campuses in Lexington, Danville, Georgetown, Lawrenceburg, and Wincheste...

Nursing (RN/ADN)LPNDental HygieneRadiologic TechnologySurgical Technology

πŸ—ΊοΈ Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: