MLT FAQ
Thank you in advance for your interest in the Medical Laboratory Technology program here at Stanly Community College. The following list of questions have been compiled to help answer common questions related to the Medical Laboratory Technology program admission process; however, this list of questions is not meant to take the place of collaborating with our Admissions staff.
- How do I apply to the Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) program?
Application to SCC and the MLT program can be completed online by visiting . You can use the link to apply, obtain transcripts, and learn about the placement testing for the college.
- When is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the Medical Laboratory Technology program is May 1st.
- What are the requirements for admission to the Medical Laboratory Technology program?
The admission requirements and process for the program are located at the following link.
The link contains the course sequence, application requirements, and application process and should answer the majority of your questions.
- How do I register for the ACCUPLACER placement test?
You can schedule the test with admissions by contacting them at 704-991-0226. Information about the testing can be accessed online by visiting Testing and Assessment.
- How often can I take the ACCUPLACER test?
The test can be taken twice in a 12 month period.
- Is there a cost associated with the ACCUPLACER?
There is no cost for this test.
- What if I have taken the ACCUPLACER test elsewhere? Can I submit my scores?
Yes. Once you have applied to the program, you may have your scores sent to admissions.
- I took the two (2) semester Anatomy and Physiology course and successfully passed
both courses. Will I have to take the BIO 163 Basic Anatomy and Physiology instead?
No. The program will accept the two semester Anatomy and Physiology course as a substitution for BIO 163.
- Will I have to learn to perform phlebotomy?
Yes. MLT professionals must have phlebotomy skills as part of their scope of practice. Stanly Community College offers a phlebotomy class though Continuing Education that would be helpful prior to starting the MLT program, but is not required.
- Do I have to complete a drug test for the program?
Yes. As a requirement of the clinical facilities, all students within the Medical Laboratory Technology curriculum must complete a drug screening. The college does not see the drug test results nor give advice related to the results. Being accepted to the program does not mean that you are automatically cleared to attend the clinical sites. If the clinical site denies a student clinical privileges, that student is withdrawn from the program.
- Do I have to complete a criminal background check as part of the admission requirements?
Yes. As a requirement of the clinical facilities, all students within the Medical Laboratory Technology curriculum must complete a criminal background check. The college does not see the criminal background check results nor give advice related to the results. Being accepted to the program does not mean that you are automatically cleared to attend the clinical sites. If the clinical site denies a student clinical privileges, that student is withdrawn from the program.
- Do I need clinical uniforms and equipment before the program starts?
No. After your acceptance into the program, faculty will discuss the clinical uniforms and equipment in great detail. The items can then be purchased at a retailer given to you by your instructors.
- How much does the program cost?
Tuition for the program is based on the number of credit hours you take within a given semester. The following link explains the tuition and other charges in great detail. Please refer to the chart to determine your approximate tuition costs.
- When do I find out if I have been granted conditional acceptance to the program?
Admissions will notify applicants, by letter, around the beginning of March. Applicants that are on the alternate list will also receive notification by letter.
- I have been conditionally accepted into the program and have received my Student Medical
Form to be completed. Does a health care provider need to sign this form?
Yes. There are specific sections to be completed by a health care provider (i.e., Physician, Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner).
- The Student Medical Form states that I need a 2-Step Tuberculin (PPD) Test, but my
health care provider stated that I only need one Tuberculin (PPD) Test. Do I really
need a 2-Step Tuberculin (PPD) Test?
Yes, a 2-Step Tuberculin (PPD) Test is required. In this procedure a person is given a baseline PPD test. If the test is negative, a second test is administered one to three weeks later. If the second test is negative, the person is considered uninfected.
As part of the MLT program, students will have to complete clinical hours at laboratories, hospitals, and other health care facilities. These facilities require that students complete the 2-Step Tuberculin (PPD) Test before they are allowed into the facility.
- I had the chicken pox when I was younger, will the date I had them be sufficient documentation
for the Student Medical Form?
No. Our clinical sites require proof of immunity by either a blood test (titer) showing immunity or the two (2) dose vaccine.
- The Student Medical Form states that a color vision examination is required. Why is
this mandatory?
Certain test procedures in the MLT profession rely on color changes in the reactions. Without the ability to distinguish color, performance as a MLT professional can be difficult, but not impossible.