Gain the skills to become a technician in laboratories in hospitals, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies and private pathology laboratories. Medical laboratory technicians or assistants conduct routine laboratory tests for pathologists, microbiologists/bacteriologists, biochemists, clinical chemists, pharmacologists or veterinarians. The program will equip you with the knowledge and skills to work under supervision to: examine micro-organisms or changes in cells and tissues perform chemical analyses of blood and other body fluids assist with research into biochemical or genetic processes Electives and program structure Year 1 You'll gain a foundation in chemistry, mathematics, biology, scientific communication, computing, biochemistry and occupational health and safety. You'll develop general laboratory skills such as microscopy, aseptic techniques, chemistry techniques and the use of laboratory instruments. In chemistry you'll become skilled at preparing solutions that meet strict quality control standards. You'll also learn to use specialized equipment and how to work safely with potentially dangerous chemicals. Year 2 You'll do specialized study in the major diagnostic areas relevant to a pathology lab, including haematology, microbiology, histology, clinical chemistry and quality assurance. You'll learn how to undertake blood counts, test levels of chemicals in blood, identify bacteria using a microscope and culture methods and prepare thin slices of tissues to examine microscopically. These tests aid in the diagnosis of all disease types. Career There is high demand for technicians in pathology laboratories in public hospitals and large private pathology providers including Australian Clinical Labs, Dorevitch and Melbourne Pathology. Pathway options You can gain entry to the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology Testing) from RMIT Foundation Studies or a range of vocational study programs. Further study When you successfully complete the Diploma of Laboratory Technology (Pathology Testing) and achieve a minimum GPA of 2.0 (out of 4.0), you are guaranteed entry to the following programs with 2 semesters of advanced standing (equivalent to 96 credit points): Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Laboratory Medicine) Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology) Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) If you achieve below the minimum GPA, you may still apply. You will be assessed on a case by case basis and credit is not guaranteed. Alternatively, you may be eligible for entry to other RMIT vocational study or undergraduate programs.