An educational program in medical laboratory technology is located on the Indiana University Northwest campus in Gary.

Description of the Profession The tests performed in a clinical laboratory are important to the practice of modern medicine. The medical laboratory technician (MLT) is a member of a medical team that includes pathologists, specialists, and technologists working together to provide data needed to evaluate diseases and the effectiveness of treatment. An MLT performs general tests in immunohematology, chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology, and urinalysis, under the direct supervision of medical technologists or specialists. Medical technicians operate computers, precision instruments, and other complex electronic equipment. Additional responsibilities include specimen procurement, specimen processing, and quality control procedures. MLTs must be accurate, dedicated, self-motivated, and skilled. Practice settings include hospitals, for-profit laboratories, clinics, public health facilities, veterinary laboratories, business, and industry. An MLT earning a baccalaureate degree and having the appropriate experience can advance to the technologist level.

Graduates of the Program After completion of the associate degree, students are eligible to take one or both of the national certification exams offered by the Board of Registry of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) and the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel. Those who pass the Board of Registry exam may use the initials MLT(ASCP) after their name, while those passing the National Certifying Agency (NCA) exam may use CLT(NCA). Graduates who are certification exam eligible are qualified to practice prior to taking the exam.

Credential Required to Practice MLT(ASCP) Medical Laboratory Technician, or CLT(NCA) Clinical Laboratory Technician.