Frequently asked questions about a career in Medical Laboratory Technology.

What skills should I have to begin with?

You must have graduated from grade 12.   You should have a keen interest in the biological sciences and have very good marks in these subjects.  You should have a genuine desire to help people and to work hard.

Where do I train and how long does it take?

The training program in Saskatchewan is located at SIAST in Saskatoon.  You will train for two years.  The training alternates between SIAST and practical training in either Regina or Saskatoon hospital laboratories.  At the end of the training period, you will write a set of national exams, set by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS).  Passing these exams will allow you to become licensed to practice Medical Laboratory Technology anywhere in Canada.

Where will I work?

You will most likely work in a hospital laboratory,  a private laboratory or the Provincial Laboratory (Regina) in Saskatchewan.     Other employment opportunities also exist in industry,  in research,  in veterinary labs.

Where does the SSMLT fit in to this?

The SSMLT is the governing body for the practice of Medical Laboratory Technology in Saskatchewan.  The SSMLT will issue you a license to practice as an MLT once you have passed your National Exams.   You cannot work as an MLT in Saskatchewan unless you possess a practicing license.  In order to maintain your license,  you must meet two requirements.  You must work as an MLT at least 1200 hours in a five year period.  This ensure that you are using your skills as an MLT.  You must also maintain 2.0 Continuing Education Credits in a five year period.  This ensure that you are continuing to advance your knowledge.