Medical lab tech students working in a classroom.

Med Lab Tech FAQs

What are the duties of a medical laboratory technologist?

The medical laboratory technologist performs analyses on blood and various body fluids to obtain data on which a diagnosis of health or disease is made.

Generally, the major areas of the laboratory are: clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and immunohematology (blood banking). Individuals who enjoy the basic sciences and who want to be part of the health care team, but who do not want much patient contact, should consider a career in medical technology.

Characteristics of an individual considering this career include sound judgment, manual dexterity, accuracy, scientific curiosity, and attention to detail.

Is there a selective admission process for the program?

Yes, due to the number of applicants and the limitation of clinical space there is a separate selection criteria and admissions process in addition to the main college application.

Prospective students should contact the Health Sciences Admissions and Advising Office at 321-433-7575 for assistance with course planning and the admission process.

How many people are selected each year?
Twelve students are selected each year.
What are the criteria for admission to the program?
Successful completion of the required general education courses (16 credits), plus a minimum of General Biology and General Chemistry I & 2. It is preferred that Intro to Biotechnology be completed before the application deadline as well.  Please see the Application Procedure link for more details.
Is an interview or open house required?
It's recommended but not required that applicants attend a program open house prior to acceptance into the program. Students can earn selection points for attending this optional event. Students must bring a transcript with them to open house. Students must also meet with a health science advisor to review the application and selection procedure.
When are students admitted to the program?
The Medical Lab Technology program begins every fall (August) term only.
What is the length of the program?
The program encompasses six semesters of coursework on the Cocoa Campus. Summer courses are online. All students will complete a final semester of clinical rotation.
When do the MLT specific courses begin?
Each new cohort of students will begin core Medical Lab Tech coursework beginning in  August. The guidelines for articulation will be presented during the MLT Open House.
What courses should I take before being admitted to the program?

EFSC requires that you take General Biology and General Chemistry I & II, as well as the general education courses, prior to acceptance into the program. Completion of Intro to Biotechnology is preferred.

Support Sciences:  
• General Biology
• General Chemistry I AND General Chemistry II, to include labs, and will enable students to sit for a state technologist license after obtaining a technician license.
• BSCC 1426 Introduction to Biotechnology (or equivalent)

General Education:  
• Civic Literacy/Social/Behavioral Science course
• Written Communication course
• Oral Communication course
• College Algebra course 
• Humanities Core course

Information about these courses can be found in the EFSC catalog. All courses are offered at EFSC. Check the specific term class schedule to determine the section, times, dates, instructors, and campus locations. See a Health Science advisor for assistance with scheduling and planning.

Will any of my previous college courses transfer to this program?

An accurate answer can be obtained once EFSC has an official copy of your transcript. Send an official copy of your transcripts to the EFSC Registrar's Office and the MLT Department, and EFSC will evaluate your transcript and accept as many of your previous courses as possible.

Remember, only courses completed with a grade of "C" or better are transferable.

I am already a Phlebotomist. Will I qualify for a waiver of any MLT courses?
Yes, if you currently hold national-certification as a Phlebotomist. You will be awarded 3 credit hours towards the A.S. degree, as completion for the following online - MLT 1040 Laboratory Specimens and Microscopy.
Can this curriculum further advance my education towards a baccalaureate degree?
Yes. Eastern Florida offers a Baccalaureate of Applied Science in Biomedical Sciences or Biotechnology. This degree may be applied toward completion of those specializations. Since the MLT student will have national certification and licensure to work as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist upon completion of this program, it is not necessary to embark upon a degree in Medical Laboratory Science.
What time of the day are classes offered?
MLT classes are generally held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, except for clinical rotations which can be Monday through Friday. Science support courses and general education requirements should be completed prior to the application deadline and may be taken during the evenings, on weekends, or possibly through online courses. Refer to the EFSC class schedule search tool for course availability during a specific term.
Must I take the courses in a certain sequence?
All MLT courses are offered either online or face-to-face on the Cocoa Campus, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. MLT courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better in order to progress within the program. Course registration each semester will be done with the guidance of the MLT Program Director.
What is the cost of the program?

Tuition is charged per credit hour. Refer to the current college catalog for tuition cost information. Lab fees, insurance costs, textbooks, and additional expenses are required, as outlined in the estimated expenses.

If you do not have financial aid, you can apply for EFSC Scholarship monies through Scholarship Information. 

Will I wear a uniform all the time?
Yes. Both a uniform and lab coat are required for clinical rotations and MLT lab courses. Required uniform consists of hunter green scrubs, lab coat (provided by the program), and a student ID badge.
Is the program accredited?

Yes. The Medical Laboratory Technology program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences ( https://www.naacls.org ).

National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences
5600 N. River Rd.
Rosemont, IL 60018-5119
(773) 714-8880

Can I re-enter the Clinical Laboratory Science Technology program if I withdraw?
Yes. Students who withdraw from the program should immediately contact the Program Manager to discuss their options for re-entry and the procedure. Proficiency students, re-admits and transfers from other programs are re-admitted as places are available. Formal withdrawal procedures must be followed.
When can I expect to be employed?
Upon graduation, you will be eligible for a national certification exam. Upon passing this exam, you may apply for licensure from the State. Licensure is required for all laboratory workers in the state of Florida.
How can I decide if Medical Laboratory Technologist is the career for me?

Medical laboratory technologists are professionals who are critical thinkers, working in many settings. You should have a love for science, want to work in the medical field but not necessarily always work with patients. The rigorous educational background that is required for a license becomes your future foundation. As an MLT, you can enjoy the rewards of helping others and maximize your potential as a health team member. You can make a difference! Many students who have BS degrees in biology, microbiology and chemistry find that their employment opportunities are limited in Brevard County. However, a med tech can find employment anywhere there are hospitals and laboratories associated with doctors' groups. For more information, please consider the following options:

  • Write to the American Society of Clinical Pathologists to obtain available literature.
    American Society of Clinical Pathologists
    2100 West Harrison Street
    Chicago, Illinois 60612-3798
  • Visit web sites to seek information on medical laboratory technology topics:
    - American Society for Clinical Pathology
    - National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
  • Make an appointment to talk with an MLT student.
  • See an EFSC health science advisor.
  • Spend time "shadowing" an MLT in a local hospital. 
  • Work in a hospital as a phlebotomist to gain a better understanding of the hospital/lab environment.
  • Talk with family members or friends who are part of the healthcare team.