Overview
NAACLS and lab science education
The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredits medical laboratory science programs — the Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) at the bachelor’s level and the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) at the associate level — along with related specialties like phlebotomy and cytogenetics. CHEA-recognized.
The Gate
NAACLS, ASCP certification, and licensure
A NAACLS-accredited program is the standard route to certification. Graduates sit for the ASCP Board of Certification exam to earn the MLS(ASCP) or MLT(ASCP) credential, which employers expect. A number of states also license laboratory personnel, generally referencing an accredited program and ASCP certification.
The Credentials
MLS and MLT
- MLS — Medical Laboratory ScientistThe bachelor’s-level generalist credential, from a NAACLS-accredited program plus the ASCP exam.
- MLT — Medical Laboratory TechnicianThe associate-level credential, from a NAACLS-accredited program plus the ASCP exam.
- Related programsNAACLS also accredits or approves phlebotomy, cytogenetic technology, diagnostic molecular science, and pathologists’ assistant programs.
Do It Yourself
Verify a lab science program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits medical laboratory science programs? The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), which accredits MLS (bachelor's) and MLT (associate) programs and related specialties. It is CHEA-recognized.
- Do I need a NAACLS-accredited program to be certified? A NAACLS-accredited program is the standard route to ASCP certification (MLS or MLT), which employers expect. Some ASCP routes exist for other degrees, but accredited-program graduates have the clearest path.
- What is ASCP certification? The American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification exam, which earns the MLS(ASCP) or MLT(ASCP) credential.
- What is the difference between MLS and MLT? MLS (Medical Laboratory Scientist) is the bachelor's-level generalist credential; MLT (Medical Laboratory Technician) is the associate-level credential.
- Do states license lab personnel? A number of states license clinical laboratory personnel, generally referencing an accredited program and ASCP certification. Rules vary by state.
- Is NAACLS recognized by the government? NAACLS is CHEA-recognized. Its role is the education gate to ASCP certification.
- What else does NAACLS accredit? Beyond MLS and MLT, NAACLS accredits or approves phlebotomy, cytogenetic technology, diagnostic molecular science, and pathologists' assistant programs.
- How do I verify a lab science program? Search the NAACLS directory and confirm certification eligibility with the ASCP Board of Certification.