“Diagnostic molecular sciences are the professionals behind the scenes running many of the new medical diagnostic tests and generating the results that your doctor uses to determine a diagnosis and/or build a treatment protocol for the patient.”
Maureen Dolan, PhD, Associate Professor of Molecular Biology, Arkansas State University
Diagnostic molecular science is part of the allied health professionals’ family and involves laboratory testing on RNA and DNA. These tests are mainly used for diagnosing and monitoring hereditary conditions such as leukemia and infectious diseases.
A diagnostic molecular scientist has three areas of responsibility: performing diagnostic testing, designing and processing RNA and DNA isolation tests, and researching infectious diseases.
Diagnostic molecular scientists primarily work in laboratories, studying various human samples, including fetal cells, hair follicles, and blood and bone. Their duties include sequencing DNA, preparing samples, reporting findings, and analyzing data. They use computerized equipment as well as manual processes to analyze substances at the molecular level. The complexity of the process and the type of equipment required depend on what the scientist is looking for and the material being tested.
As specialized molecular scientists, these professionals perform tests such as gene expression profiles, allele-specific PCR, and CGH microarrays. These may be used to identify genetic disorders and discover people who are at risk of developing cancer and other serious conditions, such as Alzheimer’s. Diagnostic molecular scientists also play a role in treating infections.
The following guide provides an overview of what it takes to become a molecular scientist.
Meet the Expert: Maureen Dolan, PhD
Dr. Maureen Dolan serves as the director of the biotechnology program and is an associate professor of molecular biology at Arkansas State University. She holds a PhD in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of Florida, a master of science in biochemistry-muscle biology from Iowa State University, and a bachelor’s of science in biology and chemistry from Quincy University in Illinois.
Dr. Dolan’s research focuses on utilizing plant transgenic strategies to manufacture high-value recombinant therapeutic proteins that target immune health modulation in humans and animals. She specializes in plant-based production of recombinant proteins for disease prevention in aquaculture settings and developing molecular-based diagnostics for the food and plant industries. She actively fosters entrepreneurship by establishing collaborative relationships with companies to provide unique research opportunities and student internships that leverage biotechnology solutions to address real-world challenges in agriculture and the food industry.
HealthcareDegree.com: What is something you wish the public understood about diagnostic molecular scientists?
Dr. Dolan: Diagnostic molecular scientists are the professionals behind the scenes running many of the new medical diagnostic tests and generating the results that your doctor uses to determine a diagnosis and/or build a treatment protocol for the patient. They were the community that built and ran the Covid-19 lab tests we all needed and used. They are among the group of professionals who run tests to make sure our food supply is safe to eat or test water to ensure the safety and stewardship of our environment.
Molecular diagnostic testing, while originally primarily a medical tool, is now being used for a plethora of testing. This area of research and testing has improved exponentially over the past five to ten years to improve the sensitivity of diagnostic tests in detecting diseases earlier, finding food pathogens in our food supply, and testing for pathogens in our water supply. As I teach my students, molecular diagnostic tests (and their improvements) allow us to find and confirm with confidence a needle in many, many haystacks!
HealthcareDegree.com: What advice would you give to aspiring diagnostic molecular science students?
Dr. Dolan: Consider a training program (college two-year, four-year, or beyond) with a curriculum that includes hands-on training, such as project-based lab classes, technology lab training, independent study in research labs, and internship/externship opportunities. Biotechnology programs, versus traditional biology or chemistry degrees, will give an aspiring molecular science student the practical training and experience to be most marketable.
Become an expert in micropipeting, sterile technique, and detailed/accurate record keeping. This industry relies on these skills.
When in college, work or volunteer in a research lab, ideally with a diversity of people (i.e., those with different levels of education and skills such as undergrad, grad, student, technician, post-doc) to learn how to practically work in a molecular diagnostic testing lab environment, but most importantly, to make sure that this type of work setting is something you will like.
I encourage students to get invested in research labs while still in school to “test drive” if this is what they like and to better identify the types of jobs they should apply for upon graduation.
Specializations & Degree Types in Diagnostic Science
These professionals can pursue several specializations in diagnostic molecular science, depending on their unique career ambitions. These include:
- Infectious disease
- Coagulation
- Disease risk management
- Oncology
- Leukocyte testing
- Pharmacogenomics
- Clinical chemistry
Admissions Requirements for Diagnostic Science Programs
Diagnostic molecular scientists generally have at least a bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, medical technology, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Some have master’s degrees, and others go on to complete PhDs.
Admissions requirements for a bachelor’s degree in this discipline include a high school diploma, an acceptable ACT or SAT score (for some colleges), a high school grade point average of at least 2.5, an official copy of a high school transcript or GED, official transcripts from each college or university previously attended, and proof of English proficiency for international students.
To earn a master’s degree in molecular science, a bachelor’s degree in a basic or medical science (e.g., biology, chemistry, microbiology) from a regionally accredited institution is required along with a grade point average of 3.0 or better, as well as the submission of a statement of purpose, a completed application, a current resume, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from every college and university attended.
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens must also submit official test scores for TOEFL or PTE.
Program Accreditation in Diagnostic Molecular Science
Accreditation assures that an institution has met minimum quality requirements. It is beneficial for students to know if a program is accredited and by what entity, as it can help them decide where to pursue their studies in molecular science. Further, employers can use accreditation to screen candidates, as accredited universities can be counted on to provide students with the necessary training. Finally, graduates from accredited universities are also eligible to sit for certification exams.
The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) is one of the major international agencies responsible for accrediting education programs in molecular science and related professions. Their accreditation process has been recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
The NAACLS provides accreditation to educational programs in the US and globally at various levels, including associate, pre-bachelor’s, bachelor’s, post-master’s, and master’s. Some of the professional disciplines accredited by this organization include:
- Medical laboratory scientist
- Medical laboratory technician
- Histotechnologist
- Histotechnician
- Pathologist assistant
- Diagnostic molecular scientist
- Cytogenetic technologist
On-Campus Degree Programs Related to Diagnostic Molecular Science
The University of Minnesota offers a bachelor’s of science (BS) in microbiology program. This is an on-campus degree, with most classes taught face-to-face. The program will provide students with the building blocks for treating infections and other diseases.
Admission requirements for the program include a high school diploma, a minimum grade point average of 2.0, and proof of English proficiency for international students.
The program comprises 120 credits. Some of the courses include biotechnology and bioengineering for biochemists; microbial genomics and bioinformatics; immunology; molecular and genetic bases for microbial diseases; biology, genetics, the pathogenesis of viruses; and microbial physiology and diversity.
Students in the program are prepared to apply to graduate programs in microbiology and similar fields and build a strong foundation for careers in the health sciences. They learn about the role of microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Graduates work in professional roles in governmental, industrial, and pharmaceutical fields.
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: 48 months
Arkansas State University offers a master’s of science (MS) in molecular biosciences. The program provides students with training and research opportunities that integrate cellular, molecular, developmental, and genomic information and knowledge.
Applicants to the program must have a BS degree in basic or applied science with a minimum grade point average of 3.0, complete an online application for admission, and submit official transcripts and GRE scores.
The program consists of 30 to 36 credits, and courses include specialized biochemistry, molecular genetics and genomics, techniques in molecular biosciences, topics in molecular biosciences, and advanced cell biology.
The program prepares students to pursue scientific research or technology-driven careers in multiple fields, ranging from agriculture to medicine, forensics to environmental sciences, and food science to renewable energy. It encompasses cell biology, biotechnology, computational biology, food safety, immunology, neurobiology, and structural biology.
- Location: Jonesboro, Arkansas
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: 24 months
Students who already have a bachelor’s degree in biological or chemical sciences and are seeking licensure as a molecular scientist can complete the molecular diagnostic certificate at Florida Gulf Coast University. Along with classroom lectures and labs, students will participate in intensive clinical experiences that will prepare them for work in a diagnostic molecular laboratory.
To earn this certificate, students must complete 23 credits in molecular diagnostics; diagnostic microbiology; and clinical immunology. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher, and prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and math. International students must provide proof of English proficiency with either a TOEFL or IELTS exam score.
- Location: Fort Myers, FL
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
- Expected Time to Completion: 15 months
Upstate Medical University – College of Health Professions
The bachelor’s of science in medical technology at Upstate Medical University’s College of Health Professions is a 60-credit five-semester program for students who have already completed their general education requirements. Graduates of this program are prepared to work in various laboratories, including diagnostic molecular labs. During their studies, students can work in university labs assisting scientists in designing and performing experiments that contribute to active medical research studies.
With a heavy research focus, many of the program’s graduates go on to work in research laboratories where diagnostic molecular scientists are in high demand. Required coursework includes hematology, healthcare ethics, statistics in laboratory medicine, and laboratory operations. Admission requirements include 60 credit hours of prerequisite coursework.
- Location: Syracuse, NY
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE); National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
Old Dominion University offers a graduate certificate in molecular diagnostics. This certificate is specifically intended for those with bachelor’s degrees in biology, cytotechnology, medical technology, or related health disciplines and wish to enhance their lab knowledge and expertise in molecular-based methods. The program’s coursework prepares graduates for certification in molecular biology by the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel or in molecular pathology by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
This 12- to 15-credit program includes principles of molecular pathology and clinical diagnostics; molecular diagnostics laboratory; advanced clinical applications of molecular diagnostics; advanced molecular diagnostics laboratory; and an optional clinical laboratory internship.
- Location: Norfolk, VA
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Within a year
Online and Hybrid Degree Programs Related to Diagnostic Molecular Science
Arizona State University – School of Molecular Sciences
Arizona State University’s School of Molecular Sciences offers an online bachelor of science (BS) in biochemistry. The program focuses on chemical processes in living beings, and the 120-credit curriculum consists of courses such as general biology, physical chemistry with a biological focus, general biochemistry, analytical biochemistry laboratory, biophysical chemistry, and general organic chemistry. Students delve into the discovery of drugs and new pathogens and develop solutions to global problems such as food and environmental degradation.
This online bachelor’s program helps students develop critical thinking skills and prepares them for jobs in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, research, government, teaching, and chemical industries. Some roles they can pursue with the degree include medical lab technician, medical doctor, physician assistant, pharmacist, and medical scientist.
Major admission requirements for the program include a high school diploma, a grade point average of 3.0 in competency courses, a completed online application, ACT and SAT scores, official transcripts, and proof of English language proficiency for international applicants. The program requires students to complete some laboratory courses at the Tempe campus.
- Location: Tempe, Arizona
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: 48 months
George Washington University offers a 100 percent online master of health sciences (MSHS) in molecular diagnostic sciences program. The program combines biotechnology and molecular biology coursework along with clinical work experience. Students who complete the program can also sit for the technologist in molecular biology (MB) exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Admission requirements for the program include a bachelor’s degree in a basic or medical science (e.g., biology, chemistry, microbiology) from a regionally accredited institution, a grade point average of 3.0 or above, and a completed application along with a statement of purpose, a current resume, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts from every college and university attended, and proof of English language proficiency for international applicants.
The 35-credit program helps students excel in molecular diagnostics. Courses include biostatistics for clinical and translational research, advanced laboratory management and operations, microbial pathogenesis, medical biotechnology, molecular pathology, and molecular biology.
Students develop various skills, such as molecular-based testing, designing correlations, maintaining workplace safety, and researching and developing preventive and corrective programs.
Upon completing the program, graduates can pursue opportunities in healthcare organizations such as public health laboratories, biotechnology companies, and clinical molecular laboratories. They can take up roles such as biotechnology or government research associate, molecular laboratory scientist, MLS teaching positions, and public health laboratory scientist.
- Location: Washington, DC
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Expected Time to Completion: 24 months
Michigan State University – College of Natural Science
After completing just three courses, students can earn a molecular laboratory diagnostics online certificate at Michigan State University’s College of Natural Science. This certificate is an excellent preparation to sit for the molecular biology certification through the ASCP as it covers the information on the exam. However, this course does not meet the requirements to sit for the exam. This program is also a great fit for professionals already working in the field who need to advance their skills or education for advancement or employment opportunities.
The three required courses are concepts in molecular biology; clinical application of molecular biology; and molecular pathology laboratory. While most of the coursework is completed online, students must travel to campus for a one-week intensive lab. Should travel be prohibitive, this component can be completed remotely.
- Location: East Lansing, MI
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Nine months
Northern Michigan University– School of Clinical Sciences
There are two tracks for the master’s of science in clinical molecular diagnostics at Northern Michigan University’s School of Clinical Sciences. The first track is for professionals already working in the field who want to perform more advanced experiments. Students can choose between emphasizing human genetics or infectious disease in this first track. The second track is for students who want to use their molecular biology training as clinical educators.
Students must complete a project, capstone, or thesis to graduate from this program. This final component is when students are expected to utilize the skills and education gleaned in the program and demonstrate them to the faculty and their peers. To be considered for admission, students must hold an undergraduate degree in a science-related field with at least a 3.0 GPA. Students must also have completed prerequisite coursework, have laboratory experience, provide three letters of recommendation, and write a statement of intent.
- Location: Marquette, MI
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Five semesters
The bachelor’s of science in medical laboratory science at the University of Cincinnati can be completed online, with a clinical practice completed near the student’s home. This program is perfect for medical laboratory science professionals who want to earn a more advanced certification or seek career advancement opportunities. Students must complete 60 credits of general education coursework or a medical laboratory technician program before enrolling in this program.
To complete this degree, students must earn 60 credits in various classes, including laboratory operations, hematology, statistics for medical laboratory practice, advanced immunohematology, advanced clinical molecular & immunological diagnostics, hemostasis, advanced clinical correlations, advanced clinical microbiology, and more. All students must also complete a capstone project where they present a research project they have designed and completed under faculty supervision.
- Location: Cincinnati, OH
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
How Long Does it Take to Become a Diagnostic Molecular Scientist?
Most positions for diagnostic molecular scientists require at least a bachelor’s degree. This takes four to five years of full-time study. Some candidates may also have a master’s degree, and some have PhDs. Completing a master’s usually takes two years, while a PhD takes another two to three years.
Additionally, many employers in the field require candidates to have at least one year of work experience in a laboratory. Finally, a few states require diagnostic molecular scientists to be licensed, while some prefer to hire those who have achieved professional certification, which can add extra time to the expected career pathway.
How To Become a Diagnostic Molecular Scientist – Step-by-Step Guide
Diagnostic molecular scientists are trained professionals who conduct research and tests for many types of medical diagnoses and analyses, including infectious diseases, cancer, pharmacogenetics, genetic disorders, and identity testing. They are typically involved in RNA and DNA isolation, detection, amplification, and viral load analysis.
Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, medical technology, biology, and related fields to become a diagnostic molecular scientist. Some of these professionals hold master’s degrees, while others may also have completed PhDs.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a diagnostic molecular scientist:
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Science (Four to Five Years)
Common areas of study for future molecular scientists include microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, medical technology, biology, and related fields.
Step 2: Gain Industry Experience (One Year or More)
Students must also consider working in laboratories on-campus or getting involved in research, as it will help strengthen their resume. Employers often seek candidates with professional work experience in a laboratory.
Step 3: Earn an Advanced Degree (Optional, Two to Five Years)
For better opportunities, students should consider getting a master’s degree. Earning a PhD also helps students access lucrative opportunities in universities and research labs, as well as top-paying industries such as pharmaceuticals.
Step 4: Become Licensed and/or Certified (One Year or More)
Consider getting licensed through organizations such as American Medical Technologists (AMT) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), as this is a requirement in some states.
Some employers also prefer hiring diagnostic molecular scientists with certification, such as medical techs or biology technologists. To earn a certification, students must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and meet coursework and experience requirements.
See the section below for detailed information about relevant certifications in the US.
What Do Diagnostic Molecular Scientists Do?
Diagnostic molecular scientists study human samples, including hair follicles, blood and bone, and fetal cells. They examine these materials at a molecular level and make inferences. They also study DNA and RNA samples, research infectious diseases, and report findings.
Some of their duties are as follows:
- Sequence DNA and RNA samples
- Report and analyze data
- Write documents and develop quality control protocols
- Research infectious diseases
- Supervise laboratory work
While the majority of molecular scientists are employed by hospitals, some work in public health agencies, forensic settings, or pharmaceutical companies.
Diagnostic Molecular Scientist Certifications & Licensure
Some states require diagnostic molecular scientists to be licensed. While some states have their own licensing exam, others allow professionals to sit for an exam administered by an organization such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Employers also prefer candidates with certifications such as molecular biology technologist and medical technologist.
The ASCP offers the following certifications that are related to diagnostic molecular science (among others):
- Histotechnician (HT)
- Technologist in blood banking (BB)
- Technologist in chemistry (C)
- Technologist in cytogenetics (CG)
- Technologist in hematology (H)
- Technologist in microbiology (M)
- Technologist in molecular biology (MB)
- Cytotechnologist (CT)
- Histotechnologist (HTL)
- Medical laboratory technician (MLT)
- Medical laboratory scientist (MLS)
- Specialist in microbiology (SM)
- Specialist in molecular biology (SMB)
AMT offers the following certifications that are related to diagnostic molecular science:
- Molecular diagnostics technologist (MDT)
- Medical laboratory technician (MLT)
Eligibility requirements for these certifications vary but generally include multiple pathways to achieve. Typically, candidates must have at least an associate (or bachelor’s degree) from an accredited university, proof of specific qualifying coursework (e.g., molecular biology, infectious disease testing, mass spectrometry, genetics, and genomics, etc.), and a certain amount of professional work experience, in addition to passing the relevant certification exams.
How Much Do Diagnostic Molecular Scientists Make?
As a final note, although the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2023) does not keep detailed salary data specifically for diagnostic molecular scientists, it does track the pay of two related professions: clinical laboratory technologists, technicians, and medical scientists.
According to the BLS (May 2023), 334,380 clinical laboratory technologists and technicians were employed in the US with an average annual salary of $62,870. They had the following percentiles:
| United States | |
|---|---|
| Number employed in the U.S. | 334,380 |
| Average Annual Salary | $62,870 |
| 10th Percentile | $36,770 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,080 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $60,780 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,900 |
According to the BLS (May 2023), there were 136,620 medical scientists (except epidemiologists) employed in the US with an average annual salary of $112,380. They had the following percentiles:
| United States | |
|---|---|
| Number employed in the U.S. | 136,620 |
| Average Annual Salary | $112,380 |
| 10th Percentile | $61,810 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,690 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $100,890 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,870 |
| 90th Percentile | $168,020 |
Please note that medical scientists generally need a doctorate.
Diagnostic Molecular Scientist Alternatives
Here are some alternative careers to being a diagnostic molecular scientist:
Become a Veterinary Technologist and Technician
Veterinary technologists and technicians work under the supervision of a veterinarian to diagnose and treat medical conditions in animals. They do this through physical examinations, running labs, and monitoring animals’ conditions. They may also collect and process blood, urine, or tissue samples in the lab.
- Typical Education: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Association of Veterinary State Boards
Become an Epidemiologist
Public health professionals who investigate patterns or causes of diseases are called epidemiologists. Epidemiologists perform duties such as collecting and analyzing data about diseases or injuries, writing reports of findings, and writing and implementing plans to reduce the prevalence of the disease or injury.
- Typical Education: Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: None required
Become a Radiologic & MRI Technologist
Radiologic and MRI technologists have received specialized training in performing X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and other diagnostic imaging. They often obtain national certification and state licensure to practice in this field. Their work allows physicians to make a diagnosis without unnecessary exploratory surgeries.
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
Farheen Gani
WriterFarheen Gani is a writer and research expert in healthcare degrees. She has written about healthcare career scholarships, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and reproductive health specialists, among other topics, since 2019. She writes about healthcare, technology, education, and marketing. Her work has appeared on websites such as Tech in Asia and Foundr, as well as top SaaS blogs such as Zapier and InVision. You can connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter (@FarheenGani).
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterAt HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.