You need to have good hand-eye coordination in order to perform sometimes delicate operations. You also need to be able to distinguish colors from each other.

Medical laboratory scientists use technology in many different ways. Because of this, you need to be comfortable handling and learning how to use lab equipment.

You are expected to pay for any transportation expenses getting to and from your clinical practicums. You may also take a practicum at a clinical setting too far away for commuting. In that case, you should be prepared to pay for living expenses. You also have to pay for your lab coat, should you need one, and liability insurance.

Graduation from an accredited program in medical laboratory science qualifies you to take the national exams for certification as a medical laboratory scientist. Both the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology and the National Certification Agency for Medical Laboratory Personnel offer these exams.

Some programs prefer applicants to have volunteer experience in health care.