Medical laboratory technicians, also known as clinical laboratory technicians, analyze tissue, cells and bodily fluids in order to carry out tasks such as diagnosing disease and measuring medical drug levels.

Students are encouraged to enroll in Clinical Laboratory Sciences accredited associate degree programs in order to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) examinations for certification. ASCP certification is preferred by employers, and this could be advantageous when entering the professional setting.