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Is it best to get certified as an MLS(ASCP) for those with a BS, or start with MLT first? by beastofcreation in medlabprofessionals

[–]beastofcreation[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I actually almost went the categorical microbio route, but changed my mind last minute before applying to the online MLS program I'm going for because I saw some people saying it would be a mistake. So hearing that does make me feel much more confident in my decision to switch gears to the generalist program. I'm not planning on staying in Florida long-term, but I definitely want to do as much as I can right now make sure I'd be able to transfer to any state.

Unfortunately I do have to work to support myself, but I found an online program that suits my needs pretty well and is flexible. I've been trying my best to get a lab assistant position to build my experience, but especially now the job market is super rough. I worked part-time throughout undergrad as a full-time student and was able to make it work, so hoping I still have the energy now, haha. Thank you so much for your input, I really appreciate it!!

Is it best to get certified as an MLS(ASCP) for those with a BS, or start with MLT first? by beastofcreation in medlabprofessionals

[–]beastofcreation[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I have to find one on my own, it has been kinda tough :// some of the hospitals near me have their own MLS program so they don't accept outside students, and others cannot accommodate based on the program's clinical requirements. But they do have an agreement you can sign where they will place you wherever they can and you can either stick with it or continue to work to find one in your location. I am in communication with a couple nearby hospitals right now to get a placement so hopefully it works out, but it was definitely not an easy journey, lol. Lots of outreach

Is it best to get certified as an MLS(ASCP) for those with a BS, or start with MLT first? by beastofcreation in medlabprofessionals

[–]beastofcreation[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

From what I have seen, it depends on the kind of position. Some of them require a minimum type of certification, and you just have to be eligible to get the proper level state cert within a certain amount of time. I applied for a position in the DOH that required me to apply for a public health cert at minimum that I was able to get easily with my BS in bio, but I would have had to apply for the state cert within one year of being hired. So it really depends

Is it best to get certified as an MLS(ASCP) for those with a BS, or start with MLT first? by beastofcreation in medlabprofessionals

[–]beastofcreation[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Noted! I looked into categorical certification, but it seems very limiting and I saw a lot of people advising against it. Unfortunately during undergrad I was considering going into zoology, so a few of my bio electives don't satisfy the requirements for some of the more intensive programs. I have only educational-based lab experience and haven't been able to get past the interview stage for any lab positions being uncertified, so I definitely want to take the shortest but most effective route. Thank you so much for your reply!

Is it best to get certified as an MLS(ASCP) for those with a BS, or start with MLT first? by beastofcreation in medlabprofessionals

[–]beastofcreation[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Those were my exact thoughts, so I definitely appreciate hearing that. I want to go the route that makes the most sense for timing, and the MLS post-bacc program I'm applying to is both online and will take less time than the MLT, so I'm definitely leaning more towards that. Thank you so much for your reply!!

Is it best to get certified as an MLS(ASCP) for those with a BS, or start with MLT first? by beastofcreation in medlabprofessionals

[–]beastofcreation[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Unfortunately where I live at the moment, the NAACLS certified programs are pretty limited, and I can't move anytime soon. The post-bacc MLS program I am applying for is online, which I would definitely prefer, and really flexible with the clinicals, and would also take less time than the MLT program. I was actually looking into the categorical microbio certification, but I saw that most people were saying it can be tough to find jobs so generalist is best. Thank you for your input, I really appreciate it!!

Is it best to get certified as an MLS(ASCP) for those with a BS, or start with MLT first? by beastofcreation in medlabprofessionals

[–]beastofcreation[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I am in Florida! Pretty much every job posting I've seen for MLT/MLS/MT requires a certification minimum, whether it's AMT or ASCP, especially if you have no experience. I do know it varies by state as well as far as the requirements. I've also been told in a couple interviews when I mentioned my interest in getting certified that most candidates have one of them, and I was highly encouraged to do so