Medical Lab Technology (MLT)
A vocational course training students to run diagnostic tests like blood, urine and tissue samples.
Description
Medical Lab Technology (MLT) is a vocational course that trains students to run diagnostic tests on blood, urine and tissue samples. It is designed for quick entry into the diagnostic and healthcare support workforce.
Students learn clinical pathology, haematology, biochemistry, microbiology, blood banking, sample collection and handling, and lab equipment operation. The course combines classroom learning with lab practicals and hospital internships.
Graduates work as medical lab technicians, lab assistants, phlebotomists and pathology technicians in hospitals, diagnostic labs, clinics and blood banks. The role has strong demand with the growth of diagnostic chains.
Entrance Exams
Direct / Merit-based Admission
Government & private paramedical institutes
Admission is merit-based — institutes admit on Class 10 / 12 marks; some conduct a basic entrance test.
Job Roles
Medical Lab Technician
Runs diagnostic tests on blood, urine and tissue samples in hospitals and labs.
Lab Assistant
Assists in lab operations, sample handling and equipment maintenance.
Phlebotomist
Collects blood samples and ensures safe handling for testing.
Pathology Technician
Prepares and processes tissue samples for pathology testing.
Salary
Fresher (0–2 yrs)
Diagnostic chains and hospitals pay at the higher end.
Mid-level (3–6 yrs)
Senior technicians in large labs earn more with experience.
Senior (7+ yrs / Lab Supervisor)
Lab supervisors and managers at large diagnostic chains earn well above this range.
Top Colleges / Institutes
- Government paramedical institutes (state-wise)
- Private paramedical colleges (state-wise)
- AIIMS paramedical courses
- Government ITIs (medical lab trades)
- Private MLT institutes (state-wise)