Professional Tasks and Working Environment
Medical technologists perform laboratory tests used to diagnose and treat disease and maintain health. Medical technologists are clinical laboratory scientists who work in blood banking, chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology and urinalysis. They assure that test results are accurate and reliable. In the hospital clinical laboratories, laboratory scientists analyze blood, body fluids and tissues to detect disease. They work with sophisticated computerized technology such as automated chemistry and hematology analyzers, GLC-Mass spectrophotometers and molecular testing such as PCR and DNA probes. Medical technologists also develop and evaluate new test procedures, maintain quality assurance programs, educate laboratory professionals and manage the laboratory.

Skills and Interests Suited to a Career in Medical Technology
Accuracy, dependability, a strong sense of responsibility, the ability to communicate effectively, the ability to consistently meet deadlines, manual dexterity and good eyesight are essential.

Related career interests include research, medicine, technical specialties, computer analysis, criminology and management.

Employment and Career Opportunities
Medical technologists are employed in general hospital laboratories, physicians' offices, private laboratories, mission fields, armed forces, Peace Corps, Project HOPE, public health, medical research programs, pharmaceutical laboratories, blood banks and industry.

Students with a baccalaureate degree in medical technology may advance to supervisory or specialist positions, depending on capability, experience and/or additional education. Opportunities are available for graduate education in biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, immunohematology, education, management and specialist categories.

Salary Information
Beginning salaries for recent graduates with baccalaureate degrees in medical technology average $35,000 in the clinical areas and $55,000 in industry. This figure varies depending on location and job responsibilities. Experienced technologists who become laboratory managers in large hospital may earn $90,000 or more.

Programs Offered at MCG
MCG grants a bachelor of science degree in medical technology. The program is a "2+2," meaning the student completes the first two years at any accredited college or university of choice, and the last two years through MCG. All students begin the MCG program fall semester of their junior year. Classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences are included to ensure the graduate is well-prepared to succeed as a medical technologist.

Internet students complete their courses using web-based technologies and fulfill internships through affiliated clinical sites. Internet students are encouraged to identify possible internship sites convenient to them. The Department of Medical Technology will contact these sites to explore the establishment of a clinical affiliation. The internet option requires students to have acceptable computer capability and internet connectivity.

MCG also offers a "4+1" program and the internet "2+2" transfer program for college graduates in biology, chemistry, microbiology and related sciences. Contact the Office of Academic Admissions for further information.

Graduates of both programs are eligible to take national certification exams.

General Admissions Criteria
Admission is based on college grade point averages, personal interviews and assessment of motivation and personal qualities needed to successfully complete the program. A 2.5 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale is required. References from individuals who can evaluate your academic performance are recommended. Applicants whose first language is not English must submit official TOEFL scores. A minimum score of 550 is required for admissions consideration. Current CPR and first aid certification is required prior to enrollment. Computer literacy is also expected.

Accreditation
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science
8410 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 670 Chicago, Illinois 60631
(773) 714-8880

Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial aid and other assistance is available. MCG participates in all federal student aid programs as well as state and private programs. MCG helps students fund their education through grants, scholarships, loans, a service commitment program and/or employment.

When and How to Apply
This is a transfer program that requires applicants to attend another accredited college or university of their choice to complete the required core curriculum courses (see the Courses to Take the First Two Years section). Then during their sophomore year, students can apply for transfer admission to MCG. Accepted applicants will transfer fall semester to begin their junior year.

At least a 2.5 college GPA with a 2.5 math/science GPA is required. Grades of D in prerequisite courses are not transferable. Course work more than 10 years old must be updated in organic chemistry, microbiology and algebra.

Applications for this program should be received by April 1, but will be accepted until the class has been filled. Earlier application is encouraged.

How to Get an Application
To receive an application for this career field, visit www.mcg.edu/admissions, or call or write:

Office of Academic Admissions
170 Kelly Building-Administration
Medical College of Georgia
Augusta, Georgia 30912
Telephone: 706- 721-2725
1-800-519-3388
E-mail: underamd@mcg.edu
Web site: www.mcg.edu/admissions