Medical Laboratory Technology, AAS

Required Courses

Total Credits Required to Complete this AAS Degree - 73

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$143.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

(State Lab Meeting changes location each year. Registration fee listed above. Additional costs may include hotel and mileage.)

The Medical Laboratory Technology program utilizes a background check service, www.certifiedbackground.com, to conduct
criminal background/abuse checks and to track immunizations and health records for each student after their acceptance into
the program. Students are responsible for the cost of this service (approximately $68 the first year and $20 to maintain the
information the following year).

Approximate total for the program: $12,312*

* Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Work in the laboratory under the direction of a medical technologist or laboratory director.
• Use a number of instruments in the laboratory for sterilizing, analyzing and testing.
• Keep the laboratory clean and well organized.
• Keep records of tests.
• Use math to make solutions or to record results of tests.
• Handle test slides and fragile equipment.
• Handle small supplies, such as test tubes and pipettes.
• Use hospital-based computer systems.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

• Excellent manual dexterity.
• Work under pressure when test results are needed quickly.
• See well for microscope study and be able to make fine adjustments.
• Work independently following prescribed procedures.
• Cooperate and communicate with other hospital staff.
• Perform activities in an organized and detailed manner.
• Have self-discipline and take initiative in identifying learning needs.
• Be able to communicate well in speaking and writing.
• Work with speed and accuracy.
• A list of “Essential Functions” for admission and retention to the program are posted on the MLT website.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

• Program does not follow regular college calendar during clinical experience.
• Must provide own transportation to clinical sites, which are not always in Des Moines.
• You sometimes work nights, weekends and holidays.
• Sick people are not always pleasant to work with.
• Possess physical and emotional stamina to meet demands of a rigorous program of study.
• Average Starting Salary $31,784 (2010-2011 Placement Report).

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in or allow discrimination covered by law. This includes harassment based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator can be contacted at 515-964-6857. For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850.