Is MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP Confusing You? Here’s the Fix
Like many other lab professionals and students, are you also befuddled about determining the effectiveness of MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP for your career? The MB ASCP relates to lab technologists/scientists, while the SMB ASCP links to lab specialists.
Watch: Understanding MB ASCP vs SMB: Key Differences Explained Video
Is the confusion between MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP getting you down? Here is the video cutting down everything about these certifications.
What is the MB ASCP Certification?
The long form for MB ASCP is “A technologist’s certificate in the field of molecular biology issued by the ASCP Board of Certification.
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Furthermore, the MB (ASCP) belongs to United States laboratory professionals, while the MB (ASCPi) goes to international lab professionals.
What is SMB ASCP Certification?
Like MB (ASCP), the SMB ASCP is also a certificate for the molecular biology sector and offered by the ASCP BOC, but it is allocated for lab specialists.
SMB with ASCP designation is awarded to U.S. lab specialists, while the SMB with ASCPi symbol is devoted to international lab specialists.
MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP: What’s the Difference?
| MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP | ||
| MB ASCP | SMB ASCP | |
| Specialization | For lab technologists/scientists | For lab specialists |
| Exam Format | CAT (computer adaptive testing) formulated | CAT administered |
| Exam Content Areas | Laboratory operation Molecular techniques Molecular science Application of molecular testing | Laboratory operation Molecular science Molecular techniques Application of molecular testing |
| Eligibility Routes (Set of eligibility requirements fixed by the ASCP BOC) | MB ASCP: 4 routes MB ASCPi: 5 routes | SMB ASCP: 6 paths SMB ASCPi: 6 paths |
| Expiration of Certification | After three years | After three years |
| Earning Potential (According to ASCP) | MB staff earn $75,520.5 annually | Higher than MB ASCP |
| Duty of Certified Professionals | Conduct MB (Molecular biology) tests | Leadership position (technologist supervisor), develop advanced testing techniques |
Which Certification Should You Choose?
MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP, both credentials are highly recommended for lab professionals who belong to the molecular biology field.
But which one should you achieve? It only counts on your current education, experience, and career goals.
Eligibility Requirements MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP
Although a couple of routes are suggested by the board for both certifications, the following are some common prerequisites in all paths.
MB (ASCP)
- Baccalaureate degree
- Valid ASCP technologist/specialist/scientist degree
- Molecular biology clinical experience
- Lab experience in the recommended area
SMB ASCP
- MB (ASCP) license
- Doctorate/Bachelor’s degree
- Clinical experience in molecular biology
- Laboratory or teching experience in the required field
How to Prepare for MB/SMB ASCP Exam?
To pass the ASCP molecular biology (technologist/specialist) exam, you need great determination and perseverance.
The ASCP prep course plays a big role in your certification preparation journey.
Always confirm the authenticity of your prep course provider before subscription.
For this, MLSIAcademy.com is a genuine platform that can be trusted blindly.
What MLSIA offers for the MB/SMB ASCP exam preparation:
- Live online classes
- Recordings
- Study book
- Q&A modules
- Quiz modules)
- Mock Tests
- CAT exam
- Study plan
- Tips to pass the exam confidently
This academy not only guarantees first-attempt success but also stands with its students until the last day of the exam.
FAQs About MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP?
Who are the best candidates for MB ASCP and SMB ASCP?
MB ASCP is for lab technologists, while the SMB ASCP is for lab specialists
Is the SMB ASCP exam harder than the MB ASCP?
Yes, of course, you need to seek advanced knowledge and extreme specialization to prove yourself here.
Final Thought
MB ASCP vs SMB ASCP, hopefully, now you can differentiate between both.
Now, it is time to go with one (relevant to you) and start preparation after satisfying the eligibility requirements.
To save your time and effort while covering the syllabus, you must interact with MLSIA.
Once you get influence from this true academy, you will never look for your second chance to win your dream certificate.
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.
