2 answers
John
Student
Paris, Tennessee
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Question
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what education do you need to be a lab technician
I am a 16 year old student
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2 answers
Jeff Huettman
Technical product design
5
Answers
Dubuque, Iowa
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi, John. A position as a lab tech is very realistic and surprisingly easy to get to. Most community colleges offer a two-year program to get you on this path. I see you are in Tennessee. Dyersburg State Community College and Tennessee College of Applied Technology both look to be close to you. I didn't do a lot of research there, but my bet would be that at least one of those has a program with a path towards lab tech. Community college is a great option. It is very expensive and often local employers subsidize programs like these to reduce any costs for students if you do find your way into a lab tech job. There are many options for you to grow professionally after that. Good luck!
Look into lab tech programs at Dyersburg State Community College
Look into lab tech programs at Tennessee College of Applied Technology
Jeff recommends the following next steps:
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1555
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
STEP 1: Obtaining your high school diploma John, is your step in becoming Lab Technician. Consider enrolling in honors or AP classes in subjects like biology and chemistry to build a strong foundation in the field. AP courses can enhance your college application and may even earn you college credit.
STEP 2: Next, you’ll need to earn your Associate Degree in laboratory science from an accredited program. This degree typically takes two years to complete and covers core courses in clinical chemistry, microbiology, immunology, and hematology. You’ll also gain practical experience through an internship or clinical rotations. Most employers prefer candidates with formal training, making this degree essential for securing a job. During your studies, make sure to gain hands-on lab experience, either through coursework, lab sessions, or even an internship.
STEP 3: After earning your degree, you may need to obtain certification to become a lab technician. Even though most states do not require certification, many employers prefer certified candidates. And some employers, particularly healthcare employers, require medical lab technicians to be certified, regardless of state requirements.
STEP 2: Next, you’ll need to earn your Associate Degree in laboratory science from an accredited program. This degree typically takes two years to complete and covers core courses in clinical chemistry, microbiology, immunology, and hematology. You’ll also gain practical experience through an internship or clinical rotations. Most employers prefer candidates with formal training, making this degree essential for securing a job. During your studies, make sure to gain hands-on lab experience, either through coursework, lab sessions, or even an internship.
STEP 3: After earning your degree, you may need to obtain certification to become a lab technician. Even though most states do not require certification, many employers prefer certified candidates. And some employers, particularly healthcare employers, require medical lab technicians to be certified, regardless of state requirements.
Thanks for the advice.
John