Program Director: Reannon Wilkerson, MS, MLS (ASCP)
reannon.wilkerson@calhoun.edu 256-890-4981
Additional information is on the MLT program website:
www.calhoun.edu/health-sciences/medical-laboratory-technician/
CAREER
The medical laboratory technician (MLT) performs a wide array of tests on blood, tissue, cells, and body fluids to provide crucial information used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. This work may include preparing samples, solutions and reagents, analyzing the chemical content of blood, identifying microorganisms, testing for drug levels, matching blood for transfusion, and maintaining laboratory equipment.
ACCREDITATION
The CCC MLT program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). 5600 N. River Rd. Suite 720 Rosemont, IL. 60018; 773-714-8886, www.naacls.org.
CERTIFICATION
MLT graduates are eligible to sit for the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Board of Certification (ASCP-BOC) or the American Medical Technologist (AMT) national certification examination. Though not required in Alabama, employers prefer MLTs with a certification credential which demonstrates knowledge attainment and a commitment to the profession and lifelong learning.
The MLT program is designed to be completed in 5 terms. The coursework is sequential, requiring a grade of 75% or higher in each MLT course to progress to the next semester and a “C” or higher in general education courses. General education courses may be taken prior to beginning the program. Graduates are awarded an Associate in Applied Science Degree.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
A new class of MLT students is enrolled once a year and begins fall semester. Applicants must minimally:
- Meet all admission requirements of CCC
- Have a transcript of coursework taken at other colleges sent to the CCC Office of Admissions and Records for evaluation
- Have a current minimum GPA of 2.0 or >
- If not completed, be eligible to enroll in ENG 101 and MTH 100
- Submit to CCC either ACT results from a test taken within the past 3 years or a Next-Gen ACCUPLACER test reading score from a test taken within the past 3 years
- Complete the online program application
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Class size is limited and there is a selective application process. An application and the selection criteria can be found on the MLT webpage.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Students enrolled in the medical laboratory technician program are required to successfully complete both academic and clinical requirements. The purpose of the MLT Eligibility Criteria, found on the MLT webpage, is to delineate the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills deemed minimally necessary for admission, progression, and graduation, and for the provision of safe and effective client care. Safety is paramount in all health programs. The College endorses the Americans’ with Disabilities Act. If a student cannot meet the Eligibility Criteria it is their responsibility to request appropriate reasonable accommodations through the Student Disability Services Office.
HEALTH SCIENCES STUDENT REQUIREMENTS
- Retain reliable transportation to and from the campus and assigned clinical education facilities.
- Comply with a dress code that includes an assigned uniform
- Undergo a health examination, TB screening, and validate immunity to infectious diseases
- Submit proof of current certification in basic life support at the healthcare provider level
- Purchase low-cost malpractice insurance through the CCC health sciences division
- Submit to a background check by a designated vendor
- Undergo drug and alcohol testing by a designated vendor
In the interest of the patients they will serve, every health science student is obligated to complete the above requirements. Policies for the background check and drug testing are provided upon enrollment. Results may prohibit a student from participating in clinical education and necessitate withdrawal or course failure.
COST
In addition to tuition, health students will have expenses related to the listed requirements, books, and associated supplies. Approximated costs are discussed in information sessions and program orientation.
POLICIES
Additional MLT program information including policies on application, readmission, and transfer students are available on the MLT webpage or by contacting the program director. The curriculum plan and policies of the MLT program are subject to change. Written notice will be given to students enrolled in the program prior to implementation.