the diagnosis is right.
RATE Students who are employed within 6 months of graduation
Medical Laboratory Technician
The Medical Laboratory Technician program at Lake Area Tech prepares you to generate the data that drives medical decisions. More than 70% of clinical diagnoses are based on lab results, making this work a critical part of patient care.
You’ll learn to analyze blood and body fluids using advanced lab equipment, identify microorganisms, run diagnostic tests, and interpret results that help determine treatment. Training includes hematology, microbiology, immunology, and clinical chemistry, along with experience using microscopes, analyzers, and blood banking systems.
The 20-month program combines classroom instruction with hands-on lab work in a fully equipped facility, followed by a full semester of clinical training at an approved site. Students may begin in the fall or spring, with an E-Degree option available for added flexibility.
Graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam to earn the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT ASCP) credential. The program maintains strong outcomes, including a 100% job placement rate for graduates entering the workforce or continuing their education within one year.
If you plan to continue your education, tools like Transferology can help you understand how your coursework applies toward a four-year degree and explore your next steps.
Certification
Once you complete the program, you are eligible to take a national certification exam. After successfully passing the exam you will earn the title of Medical Laboratory Technician – MLT (ASCP). South Dakota does not require an additional licensure to practice as a Medical Laboratory Technician. Those states that require an additional licensure to practice as an MLT include: California, Hawaii, Florida, New York, North Dakota, Tennessee, Louisiana, Nevada, West Virginia, Montana, and Georgia. Puerto Rico also requires a licensure. Read more here regarding Professional Licensure Disclosures.
Graduation Rates
Graduation and attrition rates are based on the number of students in the final half of the MLT program and includes data for three years.
Accreditation
On October 31, 2019, the Medical Laboratory Technician program received its certificate of accreditation from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). 5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont IL, 60018. (773)-714-8880. The 10-year accreditation will be up for renewal in 2029.
Medical Laboratory Technician Program Learning Outcomes
- Collect and process biological specimens.
- Perform analytical tests.
- Use safety guidelines.
- Demonstrate professionalism.
Mission, Goals, and Functions
Program Mission
The Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Program at Lake Area Technical College is dedicated
to providing students with the knowledge and skills for success as an entry-level Medical
Laboratory Technician.
Program Goals
The MLT Program at Lake Area Tech will:
- Provide instruction responsive to the needs of the student.
- Graduate technically competent individuals ready to enter the laboratory workforce with entry
level skills. - Prepare graduates to take and pass ASCP BOC national certification exam.
- Maintain a NAACLS accredited program current in the field of laboratory medicine.
- Instill the importance of continuing education for medical laboratory professionals.
- Foster a professional, ethical attitude in our graduates.
Although our goal is to prepare graduates to pass the ASCP Board of Certification test, this is not a
requirement of graduation. Once you graduate from our program, you become eligible to take the BOC certification test. We encourage all graduates to take this test within the first 6 months of graduation.
Essential Functions
To complete the MLT Program successfully, students must possess the following abilities and skills listed below. If you have any questions concerning any of these requirements, please feel free to contact the MLT faculty.
Essential Observational Requirements for the MLT Student
The student must be able to:
- Characterize the color, odor, clarity, and viscosity of biologicals, reagents, or chemical reaction
products. - Employ a clinical grade binocular microscope to discriminate fine structural and color differences
(hue, shading, and intensity) of microscopic specimens. - Read and comprehend text, numbers, and graphs displayed in print, or in an electronic format on instrument scales.
Essential Movement Requirements for the MLT Student
The student must be able to:
- Move freely and safely about a laboratory.
- Reach laboratory benchtops and shelves, patients lying in hospital beds or patients seated in specimen collection furniture.
- Perform moderately taxing continuous physical work, often requiring prolonged sitting or standing over several hours.
- Safely utilize phlebotomy and culture acquisition equipment to safely collect valid laboratory specimens from patients.
- Control laboratory equipment (i.e. pipettes, inoculating loops, test tubes, etc) and adjust instruments to perform laboratory procedures.
- Use a computer and/or electronic keyboard to operate laboratory instruments and to calibrate, record, and evaluate laboratory instruments and transmit laboratory information.
Essential Communication Requirements for the MLT Student
The student must be able to:
- Communicate effectively and sensitively orally and in writing with patients and all members of the healthcare team.
- Read and comprehend written material in order to correctly and independently perform laboratory test procedures.
Essential Cognitive Requirements for the MLT Student
The student must be able to:
- Possess these intellectual skills: comprehension, measurement, mathematical calculation, reasoning, integration, analysis, comparison, self-expression, and constructive criticism.
- Possess sufficient reasoning skills and judgment to recognize and correct performance deviations.
- such as pre-analytical, analytical and post analytical errors as they occur.
Essential Behavioral Requirements for the MLT Student
The student must be able to:
- Manage the use of time and systematize actions in order to complete professional and technical tasks within realistic constraints.
- Possess the emotional health necessary to effectively employ intellect and exercise appropriate
- judgment.
- Provide professional and technical services and maintain focus while experiencing the stresses of task-related uncertainty (i.e. ambiguous test ordering, emergent demands such as “stat” test orders, distracting environment (high noise levels, crowding, complex visual stimuli).
- Be flexible and creative and adapt to professional and technical change.
- Recognize potentially hazardous materials, equipment, and situations; proceed safely in order to minimize risk of injury to self and others.
- Adapt to working with unpleasant biological samples.
- Support and promote the activities of fellow students and of health care professionals. Promotion of your peers helps furnish a team approach to learning, task completion, problem solving, and patient care.
- Be honest, compassionate, ethical, and responsible. The student must be forthright about errors or uncertainty. The student must be able to critically evaluate her or his own performance, accept constructive criticism and look for ways to improve (i.e. participate in enriched educational activities).
Reasonable accommodations for persons with documented disabilities will be considered on an individual basis, but a candidate must be able to perform in an independent manner. There will be no discrimination in the selection of program participants based on race, creed, color, gender, age, marital status, national origin, or physical or mental disability, providing mandatory standards can be met.
Accreditation
Lake Area Technical College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
The Medical Laboratory Technician program at Lake Area Technical College is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 5600 N. River Rd, Suite 720 Rosemont IL 60018-5119; ph: 773.714.8880; fx: 773.714.8886; info@naacls.org
Clinical Sites
Avera Medical Group, Brookings, SD
Avera Dells Area Hospital, Dell Rapids, SD
Avera McKennan Hospital, Sioux Falls, SD
Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton, SD
Avera St. Luke’s Hospital, Aberdeen, SD
Brookings Health System, Brookings, SD
Brown Clinic, Watertown, SD
Chippewa County Hospital, Montevideo, MN
Coteau des Prairies Hospital, Sisseton, SD
Huron Regional Medical Center, Huron, SD
Madison Healthcare Services, Madison, MN
Milbank Area Hospital – Avera, Milbank, SD
Mobridge Regional Hospital and Clinic, Mobridge, SD
Ortonville Area Health Services, Ortonville, MN
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, Watertown, SD
Sanford Clinic, Watertown, SD
Sanford Medical Center, Aberdeen, SD
Sanford Medical Center, Sioux Falls, SD
Sanford Health, Fargo, ND
BUSINESS PARTNERS:
ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS:
Resources:
- Student Program Guide
- Student Clinical Guide
- MLT Proctor Form
Hybrid Option
Hybrid programs combine online coursework with scheduled on-campus sessions. You'll complete part of your learning remotely and come to campus for labs, clinicals, or other hands-on experiences that require it. see if online learning is right for you.
Medical Laboratory Technician Careers
Below are several careers you could pursue with an Medical Laboratory Technician degree. Visit our job board to see job opportunities in the Medical Laboratory Technician sector.
Medical Laboratory Technician
Graduates of the Medical Laboratory Technician program can pursue careers as Medical Laboratory Technicians, performing the laboratory testing that helps physicians diagnose, monitor, and treat disease. In this role, you'll analyze blood, tissue, and other patient samples using sophisticated laboratory equipment while ensuring accuracy and quality throughout the testing process. It's an excellent career path for individuals who enjoy science, technology, and making a direct impact on patient care.
Where you might work:
• Hospitals
• Medical clinics
• Diagnostic laboratories
• Physician offices
• Healthcare systems
Specialized Laboratory Roles
As you gain experience in the laboratory field, opportunities may become available in Specialized Laboratory Roles that focus on specific areas of testing and analysis. Graduates may work with microbiology, hematology, immunology, chemistry, or molecular diagnostics while helping healthcare providers better understand patient conditions. These roles are ideal for individuals who enjoy scientific investigation and continuous learning.
Where you might work:
• Hospital laboratories
• Reference laboratories
• Public health laboratories
• Research facilities
• Specialty diagnostic centers
Healthcare Support Careers
Medical Laboratory Technician graduates often pursue a variety of Healthcare Support Careers that contribute to patient care behind the scenes. In these roles, you'll support healthcare teams through laboratory services, specimen processing, quality assurance, and diagnostic support activities. This career path offers opportunities to work in healthcare without providing direct bedside care.
Where you might work:
• Hospitals
• Outpatient healthcare centers
• Public health organizations
• Diagnostic laboratories
• Medical specialty clinics
Diagnostic Laboratory Technician
As a Diagnostic Laboratory Technician, you'll perform testing that provides critical information used to diagnose illnesses and guide treatment decisions. Graduates can expect to operate laboratory instruments, analyze patient specimens, verify test results, and maintain quality standards that support accurate healthcare outcomes. This role combines technical expertise with attention to detail and scientific problem-solving.
Where you might work:
• Clinical laboratories
• Hospital systems
• Diagnostic testing facilities
• Medical centers
• Reference laboratories
Degree Pairings
Explore relevant classes and certificates below to see how they can increase hirability post-graduation.
Medical Laboratory Technician+ Phlebotomy Certificate
Earning a phlebotomy certificate can be a valuable asset for those interested in entering or advancing in the healthcare field. Students will learn foundational phlebotomy skills including blood collection techniques, safety procedures, and communication skills. The curriculum also includes a 120-hour practicum in a hospital or clinic lab. Phlebotomy is a two-semester, 16.5-credit course with an on-campus option and a hybrid option. It is offered in the spring and fall semesters. Estimated cost of the phlebotomy certificate: $6,258.00.
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
Getting all of this straight can be tough – but you're not alone. Our representatives are here to help.
"There are endless possibilities at LATC. You have an opportunity to explore many different paths in your pursuit to find your dream opportunity."
Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $9,313 |
| State Fees | $3,128 |
| Departmental Fee | $3,994 |
| Campus Support Fee | $2,155 |
| Course Fees | $380 |
| Uniform Fee | $160 |
| Books | $1,200 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,190 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $21,520 |
We know that college is a significant investment in your future. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate. You can find these estimates and a semester breakdown in the PDF cost breakdown worksheet.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
Medical Laboratory Technician FAQs
Get the details you need to decide if this program is the right fit for you.
What is Lake Area Tech’s Medical Lab Technician program?
Lake Area Technical College’s Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program prepares students for rewarding careers in healthcare with minimal direct patient contact. Medical laboratory technicians work behind the scenes in hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, performing critical tests on blood and other body fluids. These laboratory results play a vital role in helping physicians diagnose diseases, monitor conditions, and guide patient treatment plans. While most MLT positions involve little to no patient interaction, some roles may include blood collection or providing instructions for specimen collection.
What skills will I learn in the MLT program?
Students in the MLT program gain comprehensive, hands-on laboratory skills needed for success in modern healthcare settings, including:
- Specimen collection and processing, including venipuncture and capillary punctures
- Hematology: analysis of red and white blood cells, platelets, and blood smears
- Clinical Chemistry: testing blood samples for glucose, electrolytes, enzymes, and lipids
- Immunology and Serology: antigen-antibody reactions and infectious disease testing
- Microbiology: culturing, staining, identifying microorganisms, and susceptibility testing
- Immunohematology (Blood Bank): blood typing, antibody screening, and crossmatching
- Urinalysis and Body Fluids: chemical, physical, and microscopic evaluation
- Coagulation testing: analyzing blood clotting processes
- Laboratory equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Microscopy techniques
- Laboratory safety, quality control, and professionalism
What are the admissions requirements for a medical lab technician program?
The MLT program follows Lake Area Technical College’s standard admission requirements. Once you are accepted to LATC, you are automatically accepted into the Medical Laboratory Technician program—no additional program-specific requirements are needed.
Is this an entry level program for work in the medical field?
Yes. Graduates of Lake Area Tech’s MLT program are prepared for entry-level Medical Laboratory Technician positions in a variety of healthcare laboratory settings.
What is Phlebotomy?
Phlebotomy is the process of collecting blood samples, typically through a vein (venipuncture) or by a finger or heel puncture. Some MLT positions include phlebotomy responsibilities, depending on the facility.
How long does it take to complete a medical lab technician degree?
- On-campus program: The traditional on-campus MLT program is completed in two years. The final semester includes an 18-week full-time clinical rotation at a hospital or clinic.
- E-Hybrid program: The e-hybrid option is part-time only and takes approximately 3.5 years to complete. Students complete lectures online and attend campus labs throughout the semester. The final semester also includes an 18-week full-time clinical rotation.
What kind of jobs will I qualify for after medical lab technician training?
Graduates of the MLT program are prepared for employment in a variety of laboratory environments, including:
- Hospitals (large and small)
- Clinics and physician office laboratories (the most common employment settings)
Additional, less common opportunities may include:
- Public health laboratories
- VA or military hospitals
- Reference laboratories
- Environmental or industrial labs (such as food and water testing)
- Research laboratories
Will I need additional certification after graduation to work as an MLT?
After graduating from the MLT program, students are eligible to sit for the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC) exam, which is the primary national certification for laboratory professionals. While certification is not required to graduate, most employers require ASCP certification for employment. Lake Area Tech graduates consistently achieve high certification pass rates, reflecting the program’s strong academic and clinical preparation.
How much do medical lab technicians earn after graduation?
Based on the most recent data, graduates earn an average wage of approximately $21.47 to $33.27 per hour within six months of employment, depending on location, facility, and experience.
Does medical lab technician training include hands-on, real-world clinical experience or externship?
Yes. Hands-on learning is a core component of Lake Area Tech’s MLT program. Students receive extensive laboratory training on campus and complete an 18-week, full-time clinical rotation during their final semester at a hospital or clinic. This unpaid clinical experience provides real-world, on-the-job training that prepares students for immediate employment after graduation.
Medical Laboratory Technician Staff
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