MB ASCP technologist is one of two unique certificates in molecular biology for medical laboratory technologist skilled in DNA and RNA testing. It's awarded by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board Of certfication, ASCP BOC.

Moreover, it is also for those who want to advance their career in the field of molecular biology, genetics and biotechnology to get nominated and certified as MB (ASCP/ ASCPi)^CM by the most prestigious organization in the field of clinical pathology, ASCP.

This American Society for Clinicsal Pathology BOC certification is also suitable for those who want to learn novel techniques or upgrade their career.

However, it is also for international medical technologists who are preparing to get work licensure in many countries especially in the USA.

What is the MB (ASCP)^CM?

MB ASCP is a certificate awarded for a technologist in molecular biology by ASCP. Moreover, the demand for molecular biologists is increasing. So, the American Society of Clinical Pathology offers ASCP molecular biology certification.

ASCP Molecular Biology Technologists are responsible for diagnosing diseases through biological methods. Moreover, they use advanced methods in detecting suitable medicine. However, this career is rewarding and challenging.

Requirements for MB ASCP Technologist in Molecular Biology

Firstly, make sure that you are eligible for the ASCP exam per the American Society For Clinical Pathology BOC before applying.

Because the application fee for ASCP Molecular Biology Technologist Certification is non-refundable.

Moreover, the application fee for the MB is $200 but its about $95 for some countries.

However, there are 4 eligibility routes for MB certification. You must fulfil all the requirements of at least one route.

Route 1

ASCP technologist/scientist or specialist certification.
A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

Route 2

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
Completion of NAACLS accredited diagnostic molecular science program within the last five years.

Route 3

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. However, the majors must be in biological science or chemistry. OR a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a combination of 30 semester hours in biology and chemistry.
Clinical experience of one year. However, it must be in a molecular biology laboratory within the last five years. OR One year of veterinary, industry or research experience in a molecular biology laboratory in the U.S. or Canada within the last five years.

Route 4

Master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university in molecular biology, biotechnology, chemistry, biology, immunology, microbiology, allied health, medical laboratory science, or any related field.
Six months of clinical experience in a molecular biology laboratory within the last five years. OR six months of veterinary, industry or research experience in a molecular biology laboratory in the U.S. or Canada within the last five years.

Molecular Biology Laboratory

A molecular biology laboratory provides individuals with knowledge and practical experience in molecular methodology. Moreover, it includes nucleic acid isolation, amplification, detection, sequencing, hybridization techniques, and data analysis.

Eligibility Check for MB ASCP Technologist in Molecular Biology

Use BOC examination eligibility assistant for MB ASCP. Moreover, it will let you determine whether you are eligible for the American Society For Clinical Pathology BOC certification or not. It comprises the following steps:

First, accept terms and conditions.
Secondly, select the certificate type.
Then, fill in the questionnaire.
Finally, you will find the eligibility result.

So, follow the steps below for How to Check for MB Eligibility?. For instance, we are considering route one here.

Eligibility Assistant for MB ASCP Route Determination

Firstly, go to eligibility assistant of the American Society For Clinical Pathology BOC . Secondly, select the checkbox to agree with ASCP BOC terms. Then, click on begin.

MB ASCP Route Determination: Select certificate

Then, select the certificate from the list of ASCP certification programs.

Check MB – Technologist in Molecular Biology

For MB ASCP, check the MB – Technologist in Molecular Biology. You will see it under the additional certifications section. Finally, click on next.

2 2 Technologist in Molecular Biology Selected

Fill Questionnaire

After that, a questionnaire will pop up. Certainly, the questions will be related to your education and experience. Firstly, select your desired option. Then, hit next to move forward.

Furthermore, you can also view the progress bar at the bottom. However, you can return to any question at any time by clicking on the previous button.

Question 1

Do you have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university?

Question 2

Have you successfully completed a NAACLS* accredited diagnostic molecular science program within the last five years?

4 Completed NAACLS accredited diagnostic molecular Prog

Question 3

Do you have a valid (not expired) ASCP certification as a technologist/scientist or specialist?

Eligibility Results

Finally, you can view the eligibility results. For instance, we have considered route 1 for MB ASCP here. That’s why you can view the eligibility requirements for ASCP Molecular Biology Certification route 1 fulfil.

You can find Eligibility Checker is here .

MB ASCP Exam Questions, Pass Score, Study Guide and Material

ASCP Molecular Biology Certification exam comprises 100 questions. However, the allotted time is 2 hours 30 minutes. In short, the test has tailored to the individual’s ability level.

Moreover, it has based on computer adaptive testing (CAT). So, if you answer correctly, the computer will throw a difficult question. On the other hand, the computer will show easy questions if you fail to select the correct option.

Furthermore, the score of each question varies according to the difficulty level. The passing score is 400. However, to become ASCP molecular biology Technologist, you have to correctly answer as many questions as possible.

Looking for MB ASCP exam study guide and material? keep reading!

MB ASCP Exam Study Guide Per BOC Site

The exam questions comprise four subjects. Moreover, subject names and percentages are as follow:

(30 – 35%), Applications of Molecular Testing
(30 – 35%), Molecular Techniques
(20 – 25%), Molecular Science
(15 – 20%), Lab Operations.

MB ASCP Technologist Molecular Biology Content

Molecular Science

The molecular science contents for ASCP Molecular Biology Certification are:

Basic molecular theory
Chemistry of Nucleic acid
Human/microbial genetics
Biochemical reagents

Molecular Techniques

The Molecular Techniques contents for Molecular Biology Certification by ASCP are:

Isolation of nucleic acid, NA
Separation and detection of NA
NA amplification
DNA Sequencing
Other molecular techniques

Lab Operations

The Laboratory Operations contents for ASCP Certification in Molecular Biology are:

Specimen processing
Contamination
Reagents
Assays (performance, validation, and troubleshooting)
Proficiency testing
Results (calculation, interpretation, and reporting)
Instrumentation
Guidelines and regulations
Safety
Continous education
QC, Quality control
Competency

Applications of Molecular Testing

The Applications of Molecular Testing contents for ASCP Molecular Certification includes:

Genetic disorders
Genetic identity
Infectious disease
Pharmacogenomics
Histocompatibility
Oncology
Bone Engraftment

MB ASCP Exam Reading List Acc. To ASCP BOC Site

For ASCP Molecular Biology Technologist Certification, you can refer to the following textbooks as seen on ASCP site.

General Molecular Biology

Molecular Biology of the Cell (6th ed.). New York: Garland Science.

Molecular Diagnostics: Fundamentals, Methods, & Clinical Applications (3 rd ed.). Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.

The Molecular Basis of Human Disease (2 nd ed.). Elsevier Inc.

The Cell: A Molecular Approach (8th ed.). New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

Lewin's Genes XII (12th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Publishers.

Principles and Applications of Molecular Diagnostics. Elsevier Inc.

American Society For Clinical Pathology Board Of Certifcation (ASCP BOC).

Applications Of Molecular Science

Diagnostic Molecular Pathology: A Guide to Applied Molecular Testing. Elsevier Inc.

Principles and Practice of Oncology: Primer of the Molecular Biology of Cancer (3rd Ed.). Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health.

Hematopathology – CHAPTER 6: Molecular Diagnosis in Hematopathology ONLY (2nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier, Inc.

Clinical Genomics: A Guide to Clinical Next Generation Sequencing. Elsevier Inc.

Molecular Pathology in Clinical Practice (2nd ed.). New York: Springer.

Thompson and Thompson Genetics in Medicine (8th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Inc.

Molecular Microbiology: Diagnostic Principles and Practice (3rd ed.). Washington D.C.: ASM Press.

American Society For Clinical Pathology Board Of Certifcation (ASCP BOC).

Mathematics

Fundamental Laboratory Mathematics: Required Calculations for the Medical Laboratory Professional. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company.

Mathematics for the Clinical Laboratory (4th ed.). St. Louis: Elsevier.

Calculations for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology: A Guide to Mathematics in the Laboratory (3rd ed.). London: Academic Press.

ASCP Board Of Certifcation (ASCP BOC).

Furthermore, you can avail online content for Molecular Biology technologist certification from the below list of recommnded associations by the American Society For Clinical Pathology BOC.

Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP)
Association of Genetic Technologists (AGT)
American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD)
American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ASHI)
Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI)
American Society for Microbiology (ASM)
College of American Pathologists (CAP)
Pan American Society for Clinical Virology (PASCV)
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)

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MB(ASCP) Exam Prep: The All-in-one Solution

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How To Get MB ASCP Technologist in Molecular Biology?

So, you have decided to apply for ASCP Molecular Biology Certification. Then, follow this step by step guide to become ASCP Molecular Biology Technologist.

How To Be MB (ASCP)^CM certified by American Society For Clinical Pathology in 6 Steps?

Total Time: 1 minute

ASCP Eligibility Route

Firstly, determine your eligibility route. Then apply accordingly. You can use American Society For Clinical Pathology (ASCP BOC) eligibility assistant for this purpose.

Evaluate Your Degrees by ASCP Accredited Agency

if you are international applicant, Evaluate your credentials/ transcripts from one of the accredited agency by American Society For Clinical Pathology. Moreover, don’t forget to verify your experience letter. Because ASCP entertains only authentic and official documents. So, gather all the required official documents.

ASCP Account Creation

3.1. Firstly, go to the official American Society for Clinical Pathology website. Then, create a new account. If you already have one, log in to that account.
3.2. Fill in the correct information during account formation. However, use your name as exactly on your ID card.
3.3. Make sure that your contact information is current and up-to-date. Because, ASCP will contact you via email. However, you can also edit your contact information later on.

MB ASCP Application And Fee Submission

4.1. First, fill in your education, certifications and work-related information to apply for molecular biology certification.
4.2. Review your application before submission.
4.3. Finally, submit the fee for MB ASCP molecular biology certification exam.

Schedule Your MB ASCP Exam

5.1. Meanwhile, wait for a confirmation email from the American Society For Clinujcal Pathology BOC with instruction on how to submit the required documnets.
5.2. After submitting your application alongside with evaluated transcrips and experience doc for molecular biology technologist exam, your app will be evaluated by ASCP eveluator.
5.3. Once approved, you will receive an an approval email to schedule your exam.
5.5. At last, schedule your exam date per trhe time fram given by ASCP BOC

MB ASCP Exam Prep

Molecular biology certfication exam by the American Society of Clinical Pathology is not an easy going one. Want to know how to get fully prepared to ace your exam? Click the image?

FAQs for MB ASCP Technologist In Molecular Biology Certfication

What is an MB ASCP?

MB ASCP is a certified molecular biology technologist by the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC). It's for moelcuar biology technologists who are skilled at DNA and RNA testing and pass the ASCP molecular biology certification exam.

How Do I Get MB ASCP Certified by The American Society for Clinical Pathology?

Firstly, check your eligibility for molecular biology certification.
Seconed step, decide your certification route.
Then, create an account @ American Society for Clinical Pathology BOC.
Fill in the application.
Submit fee and required official documents.
Finally, prepare for the ASCP molecular biology technologist certification.

What is (MB ASCP)CM?

ASCP has initiated the Credential Maintenance Program (CMP). So, you can stay updated on developments in your field. If you decide to complete CMP in the future, the CM will add to your credentials i.e. (MB ASCP) ^CM. If not, your ASCP certification initials will revert to MB ASCP.

How Many Questions Are On The ASCP MB Exam?

ASCP molecular biology certification exam comprises 100 questions for both MB and SMB ASCP. However, the score of each question varies with the difficulty level.

What Is The Passing Score For MB ASCP Exam?

The passing score for ASCP BOC certification is 400. However, the score for American board certifications lies between 0-999.

How Do You Become A Molecular Technologist?

To become a molecular technologist, you need a bachelor's degree in biology or a related life science field. Besides degree, it also involves relevant laboratory experience. However, you can advance your career by obtaining a master's degree in this field.

What Is A Molecular Technologist?

A molecular technologist study biological interactions at the molecular level. They examine the DNA and RNA of humans, plants and animals to research, diagnose, and treat various diseases. Meanwhile, they work in the lab to inspect the role of genetics in medicine.

What Is A Registered Medical Technologist?

A registered medical technologist is a highly experienced individual who conducts various tests to analyze blood, tissue samples and other body fluids.

Is Molecular Biology In Demand?

The demand for molecular biologists has increased over the last 20 years. It provides a basis for further research in genomics, cell biology, biotechnology, microbiology, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Working in this field is rewarding. However, the competition here is less as compared to other scientific fields.

What Kind Of Jobs Can You Get With A Molecular Biology Degree?

With a molecular biology degree, you can avail career opportunities such as:
Biotechnologist.
Embryologist.
Forensic DNA Analyst.
Molecular Genetics Technologist.
Molecular Laboratory Technologist.
Plant Geneticist.
Research Associate.
Research Technologist.
Clinical Research Assistant.
Assistant Biologist in Food Inspection Agencies.
Teaching Assistant.
Quality Control in Biopharmaceutical Industry.
Marketing Associate for Medical Devices.

Who Works In A Molecular Laboratory?

In the molecular laboratory, Molecular biology technologists conduct various complex protein and nucleic acid tests on cell samples. Besides technologists, medical laboratory technicians also work in the laboratory.

How Much Money Does A Molecular Biologist Make?

The average salary for a Molecular Biologist is $61257.

How Many Years Does It Take To Become A Molecular Biology Technologist?

You can obtain an entry-level position after a bachelor’s degree in life science or a related field. Moreover, you advance can career as a molecular biologist with ASCP Molecular Biology Certification. Furthermore, in the US, the demand for molecular biologists is increasing.

Where Can A Molecular Biologist Work?

Typically, a molecular biologist works in a molecular biology laboratory. However, they are also employed by the government, hospitals, universities, research firms or pharmaceutical companies.

What Does A Molecular Biologist Do On A Daily Basis?

A molecular biologist spends the first half of the day carrying out the RNA and DNA tests. However, in another half, he/ she analyzes the results obtained from molecular testing.

Is Molecular Biologist A Good Job?

It is expected that the demand for molecular biologists will grow over the next 10 years. However, for a molecular biologist, there is a strong job market and a good return on investment. Meanwhile, employment opportunities demand higher education and vast experience in molecular biology science.

Is Molecular Biology Hard?

Yes, molecular biology is quite hard and challenging. There are so many subjects to study. However, you have to study a lot more chemistry or chemical reactions specific to biology.

Elshawadfy Abdelhalim, PhD, MLS(ASCP), SM, MB

Abdelhalim Elshawadfy is an ASCP certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS ASCP), Specialist in Microbiology (SM ASCP), and Molecular Biology Technologist (MB ASCP) with a distinguished career marked by expertise, continuous learning, and a commitment to elevating the standards of clinical laboratory science. As an ASCP Certification Expert and American Board Certification Expert, Abdelhalim Elshawadfy continues to make invaluable contributions to the field, leaving a lasting impact on the medical community.