ASCP vs. NRCM Certification for Microbiologists: Which One Should You Choose?
By Dr. Zubair Khalid, DVM, MS, PhD ·
Quick Answer
- ASCP certification suits clinical and medical laboratory microbiology roles, while NRCM certification targets food, pharmaceutical, and environmental microbiology sectors.
- Choose ASCP for hospital and diagnostic laboratory careers, and NRCM for industrial or regulatory microbiology positions.
- Neither certification replaces a degree, and employer recognition varies by workplace and region.
Understanding Microbiology Certification Bodies
Microbiologists work across many settings, including hospitals, research universities, government agencies, and private industry. Each workplace has different expectations for professional credentials. The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the National Registry of Certified Microbiologists (NRCM) both offer certifications, but they serve different segments of the microbiology profession.
ASCP certifications focus on clinical laboratory science. They are designed for professionals who work in medical laboratories, hospitals, and diagnostic settings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that clinical laboratory technologists and technicians typically need a bachelor's degree and often pursue certification to demonstrate competence. ASCP credentials align with this pathway.
NRCM certifications target microbiologists who work in food safety, pharmaceutical manufacturing, water quality, and environmental testing. These roles emphasize quality control, regulatory compliance, and applied microbiology. The American Society for Microbiology, which administers NRCM, describes its certification as a way to recognize professional achievement in the field.
The choice between ASCP and NRCM depends on your career goals, your educational background, and the type of laboratory work you intend to perform. A hospital clinical laboratory will likely value ASCP certification. A food processing plant or environmental testing laboratory will likely value NRCM certification.
At a Glance
| Feature | ASCP Certification | NRCM Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Clinical and medical laboratory science | Professional microbiology across food, public health, and environmental sectors |
| Typical Work Settings | Hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories | Food companies, pharmaceutical firms, water utilities, research institutions |
| Eligibility | Requires specific education and clinical laboratory experience | Requires a degree in microbiology or related science plus laboratory experience |
| Exam Content | Medical laboratory topics, including hematology, chemistry, and microbiology | Broad microbiology topics, including food, water, and pharmaceutical microbiology |
| Renewal | Continuing education credits required | Continuing education credits required |
| Employer Recognition | Strong in healthcare and clinical settings | Strong in food, pharmaceutical, and environmental industries |
Understanding ASCP Certification
ASCP offers several certifications for laboratory professionals. The most common is the Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) certification, formerly known as Medical Technologist. ASCP also offers specialist certifications in microbiology, including the Specialist in Microbiology (SM) credential.
Eligibility Requirements
ASCP requires candidates to meet specific education and experience standards. Most candidates complete a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Some pathways allow candidates with other science degrees to qualify if they complete additional coursework and laboratory training. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that clinical laboratory technologists typically need a bachelor's degree, and many employers prefer certified candidates.
Exam Content
The ASCP exam for medical laboratory scientists covers multiple areas of the clinical laboratory. These include blood banking, chemistry, hematology, immunology, and microbiology. The microbiology portion focuses on identifying pathogens, performing culture and sensitivity testing, and understanding infectious disease processes.
Renewal Requirements
ASCP certification requires renewal every three years. You must earn continuing education credits during each renewal period. The American Society for Clinical Pathology provides educational programs and resources to help certified professionals meet these requirements.
Understanding NRCM Certification
Eligibility Requirements
NRCM offers two primary certifications: Registered Microbiologist (RM) and Specialist Microbiologist (SM). The RM credential requires a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related science. You also need at least one year of professional experience in microbiology. The SM credential requires a master's degree or equivalent experience and a minimum of four years of professional work.
Exam Content
The NRCM exam covers a broad range of microbiology topics. This includes food microbiology, water and wastewater microbiology, pharmaceutical microbiology, and environmental microbiology. The exam tests your ability to apply microbiological principles to real-world problems in these industries.
Scope and Renewal
NRCM certification is valid for three years. You must earn continuing education credits to renew. The American Society for Microbiology, which administers the NRCM program, provides educational opportunities and professional development resources for certified members.
Career Paths and Employer Recognition
Clinical and Medical Laboratory Careers
If you plan to work in a hospital or clinical diagnostic laboratory, ASCP certification is the more recognized credential. Most hospital laboratories require or strongly prefer ASCP-certified professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work primarily in hospitals and diagnostic laboratories. Certification from a recognized body like ASCP is often a condition of employment.
Food, Pharmaceutical, and Environmental Careers
If you plan to work in food safety, pharmaceutical quality control, or environmental testing, NRCM certification is more relevant. These industries require microbiologists who understand foodborne pathogens, water quality, and product safety. The American Society for Microbiology describes career opportunities in these sectors and emphasizes the importance of professional credentials.
Research and Government Careers
Research laboratories and government agencies may accept either certification, but they often place more weight on academic credentials and research experience. The National Institutes of Health provides training and career development for scientists, and the National Science Foundation employs microbiologists in various roles. In these settings, a certification is helpful but not always required.
How to Choose Between ASCP and NRCM
Step 1: Identify Your Target Workplace
Start by listing the types of employers you want to work for. If you want to work in a hospital or clinical laboratory, ASCP is the appropriate choice. If you want to work in food production, water testing, or pharmaceutical quality control, NRCM is the appropriate choice.
Step 2: Review Job Postings
Look at job postings for the roles you want. Note which certifications appear in the requirements or preferred qualifications. This will give you a direct answer about what employers in your area expect.
Step 3: Assess Your Education and Experience
Review the eligibility requirements for each certification. If you have a degree in microbiology and laboratory experience, you may qualify for both. If you have a degree in medical laboratory science, you may qualify for ASCP more easily.
Step 4: Consider Your Long-Term Career Goals
Think about where you want to be in five or ten years. If you want to move into hospital laboratory management, ASCP certification will support that path. If you want to move into food safety leadership or environmental consulting, NRCM certification will support that path.
Practical Implementation Steps
For Students and Recent Graduates
If you are still in school, focus on completing a degree in microbiology or medical laboratory science. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a bachelor's degree is the typical entry-level education for microbiologists. While you are in school, seek internships or part-time work in a laboratory. This experience will help you meet the eligibility requirements for certification.
For Working Laboratory Professionals
If you are already working in a laboratory, review your current job duties and your employer's expectations. If your employer requires certification, ask which credential they recognize. If you are not yet certified, consider which certification aligns with your daily work.
For Career Changers
If you are moving from one microbiology sector to another, you may need to earn a new certification. For example, a food microbiologist moving to a hospital laboratory will likely need ASCP certification. A clinical microbiologist moving to a food company will likely need NRCM certification.
Records and Measurements
Tracking Your Certification Status
Keep a record of your certification number, the date you earned it, and your renewal deadline. Many professionals use a spreadsheet or a calendar reminder to track continuing education credits.
Documenting Continuing Education
Both ASCP and NRCM require continuing education for renewal. Keep copies of certificates, transcripts, and other documentation for each course or activity. This documentation is essential when you apply for renewal.
Monitoring Employer Requirements
Employer requirements can change. Review job postings and professional announcements regularly to stay informed about changes in certification expectations.
Common Failure Patterns
Choosing the Wrong Certification
Many microbiologists choose a certification without researching employer expectations. This leads to spending time and money on a credential that does not help their career. Always check job postings before you commit to a certification.
Missing Eligibility Requirements
Some candidates apply for certification without meeting the education or experience requirements. This results in a rejected application. Review the eligibility criteria carefully before you apply.
Letting Certification Expire
Some professionals fail to renew their certification on time. This can result in losing the credential and having to retake the exam. Set reminders for your renewal deadline and complete continuing education early.
Limitations and Considerations
Certification Does Not Replace a Degree
Both ASCP and NRCM certification require a degree as a prerequisite. Certification is an additional credential that demonstrates competence, but it does not replace formal education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a bachelor's degree is the typical entry requirement for microbiologists.
Employer Requirements Vary
Some employers require certification, while others only prefer it. Some employers may accept either ASCP or NRCM, while others specify one. Always check the specific requirements of each employer.
Certification Is Not a Guarantee of Employment
Certification demonstrates your knowledge and skills, but it does not guarantee a job. Employers also consider your experience, your interview performance, and your fit with their organization.
Professional Escalation Criteria
When to Seek Additional Credentials
If you are working in a specialized area, you may need additional credentials beyond ASCP or NRCM. For example, a microbiologist working in a veterinary laboratory may need additional training or certification. The Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges provides information about veterinary career paths.
When to Consult a Career Advisor
If you are unsure which certification to pursue, consult a career advisor. The American Society for Microbiology offers career services and professional development resources. A career advisor can help you evaluate your options based on your goals.
When to Consider Advanced Education
If you want to advance to a leadership or research role, consider a graduate degree. The National Institutes of Health provides training and mentoring for research scientists. A master's or doctoral degree can open doors to roles that do not require certification.
Building a Certification Decision Matrix for Your Specific Laboratory Setting
A common mistake among microbiologists is treating ASCP and NRCM as interchangeable credentials that differ only by job title. In practice, the correct choice depends on the regulatory environment, the accrediting bodies that govern your laboratory, and the specific testing workflows you will perform. A structured decision matrix helps you evaluate these factors systematically instead of relying on general advice or anecdotal reports from colleagues.
Step 1: Map Your Laboratory's Regulatory Framework
The first step is to identify which regulations and accrediting organizations apply to your target workplace. This determines whether a certification is legally required, professionally expected, or merely optional.
Clinical laboratories that perform testing on human specimens for diagnosis or treatment typically operate under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). These laboratories are often accredited by organizations such as the College of American Pathologists or the Joint Commission. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work primarily in hospitals and diagnostic laboratories, where certification is often a condition of employment. If your target laboratory performs patient testing, ASCP certification is the credential that aligns with this regulatory framework.
Industrial and environmental laboratories operate under different oversight. Food testing laboratories follow regulations from the Food and Drug Administration or the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Pharmaceutical laboratories follow current Good Manufacturing Practices. Water testing laboratories follow Environmental Protection Agency standards. These laboratories do not typically require ASCP certification. Instead, they value NRCM certification because it demonstrates competence in the specific microbiological methods used in these industries.
To build your decision matrix, list the regulatory standards that apply to your target workplace. For each standard, note whether it references a specific certification. For example, a hospital laboratory that is accredited by the College of American Pathologists will likely require ASCP certification for its microbiology staff. A food manufacturing plant that follows FDA regulations will likely prefer NRCM certification.
Step 2: Analyze Job Postings by Certification Language
Job postings provide direct evidence of employer expectations. However, the language used in postings varies. Some employers state that a certification is required, while others say it is preferred. Some employers list a specific certification, while others use general language such as "certification in microbiology."
Create a table with the following columns for each job posting you review:
| Job Posting | Certification Required | Certification Preferred | Specific Certification Named | General Certification Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hospital Clinical Laboratory | Yes | No | ASCP | No |
| Food Quality Laboratory | No | Yes | NRCM | Yes |
| Pharmaceutical QC Laboratory | No | Yes | NRCM | Yes |
| Environmental Testing Laboratory | No | Yes | NRCM | No |
| Research Laboratory | No | No | None | No |
This table helps you see the pattern across your target job market. If most postings in your field name a specific certification, that is the credential you should pursue. If most postings use general language, you may have more flexibility.
Step 3: Map Your Daily Work Tasks
Your daily work tasks should align with the certification you choose. The O*NET OnLine database provides detailed task lists for microbiology-related occupations. Review the tasks listed for your current or target role and compare them to the exam content for each certification.
For example, a clinical microbiologist in a hospital laboratory performs tasks such as identifying pathogens from patient specimens, performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and interpreting culture results. These tasks align with the ASCP exam content, which covers medical laboratory topics including microbiology.
A food safety microbiologist performs tasks such as testing food samples for pathogens, verifying sanitation procedures, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. These tasks align with the NRCM exam content, which covers food microbiology and environmental microbiology.
If your daily work involves both clinical and industrial microbiology, you may need to decide which certification is more relevant to your primary responsibilities. You can also consider earning both certifications if you meet the eligibility requirements for each.
Step 4: Map Your Career Trajectory
Your certification choice should support your long-term career goals, beyond your current job. Consider where you want to be in five to ten years.
If you want to move into hospital laboratory management, ASCP certification is the credential that will support that path. Hospital laboratory managers typically need to understand clinical testing, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. ASCP certification demonstrates that you have this knowledge.
If you want to move into food safety leadership or environmental consulting, NRCM certification is the credential that will support that path. These roles require a deep understanding of foodborne pathogens, water quality, and environmental testing methods. NRCM certification demonstrates that you have this expertise.
If you want to move into research or government work, neither certification may be required. The National Institutes of Health provides training and career development for research scientists, and the National Science Foundation employs microbiologists in various roles. In these settings, academic credentials and research experience are more important than certification.
Step 5: Map Your Education and Experience
Your education and experience determine which certifications you can pursue. Review the eligibility requirements for each certification and compare them to your background.
ASCP certification typically requires a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Some pathways allow candidates with other science degrees to qualify if they complete additional coursework and laboratory training. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that clinical laboratory technologists typically need a bachelor's degree.
NRCM certification requires a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related science. The Registered Microbiologist credential requires at least one year of professional experience. The Specialist Microbiologist credential requires a master's degree or equivalent experience and a minimum of four years of professional work.
If you have a degree in medical laboratory science, you may qualify for ASCP more easily. If you have a degree in microbiology, you may qualify for NRCM more easily. If you have a degree in a related science, you may need to complete additional coursework to qualify for either certification.
Step 6: Map Your Continuing Education Resources
Both ASCP and NRCM require continuing education for renewal. The renewal period and the number of credits required differ between the two certifications. You should consider which continuing education resources are more accessible to you.
ASCP provides educational programs and resources to help certified professionals meet their renewal requirements. The American Society for Clinical Pathology offers courses, webinars, and conferences that cover clinical laboratory topics.
NRCM certification is administered by the American Society for Microbiology. The ASM provides educational opportunities and professional development resources for certified members. These resources cover food microbiology, water microbiology, and other applied microbiology topics.
If you work in a clinical laboratory, you may find it easier to earn continuing education credits from ASCP. If you work in a food or environmental laboratory, you may find it easier to earn credits from ASM.
Using the Decision Matrix
Once you have completed the six steps, you can use the decision matrix to make your choice. The matrix should show you which certification aligns with your regulatory environment, your job postings, your daily work, your career goals, your eligibility, and your continuing education resources.
If the matrix shows that ASCP is the clear choice, you can proceed with the ASCP application process. If the matrix shows that NRCM is the clear choice, you can proceed with the NRCM application process. If the matrix shows that both certifications are equally aligned with your goals, you can consider earning both.
Recording Your Decision
Document your decision-making process. Write down the reasons you chose one certification over the other. This record will be useful if you need to explain your choice to an employer or a career advisor. It will also be useful if you decide to pursue the other certification later.
Reviewing Your Decision
Your decision is not permanent. You can earn the other certification later if your career goals change. Many microbiologists earn both certifications over the course of their careers. The decision matrix can be used again if you need to make a new choice.
Troubleshooting the Decision Process
When the Matrix Is Inconclusive
If your decision matrix does not clearly point to one certification, you may need to gather more information. Contact the certifying organizations directly and ask about their certification requirements and employer recognition. You can also contact professionals in your target field and ask which certification they hold.
When Employer Requirements Are Unclear
If you are currently employed and your employer does not have a clear certification policy, ask your supervisor or human resources department. They may be able to tell you which certification is preferred or required for your role.
When You Are Between Career Paths
If you are between career paths, you may need to make a temporary choice. You can choose the certification that is most relevant to your current job and plan to earn the other certification if you change careers.
Records and Measurements for the Decision Matrix
Documenting Your Research
Keep a record of the job postings you reviewed, the regulatory standards you identified, and the tasks you mapped. This documentation will be useful if you need to explain your decision to an employer or a career advisor.
Tracking Your Certification Progress
Once you have made your choice, track your progress toward certification. Keep a record of your application status, your exam date, and your exam results. This will help you stay organized and meet your deadlines.
Monitoring Your Career Goals
Review your career goals regularly. If your goals change, you may need to update your decision matrix and consider earning the other certification.
Limitations of the Decision Matrix
The decision matrix is a tool to help you make an informed choice. It does not guarantee that you will find a job or that your employer will accept your certification. Employer requirements vary by workplace and region. The matrix is most useful when you combine it with direct research into job postings and employer expectations.
The decision matrix also does not replace the need for a degree. Both ASCP and NRCM certification require a degree as a prerequisite. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a bachelor's degree is the typical entry requirement for microbiologists. Certification is an additional credential that demonstrates competence, but it does not replace formal education.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If you are still unsure which certification to pursue after completing the decision matrix, consult a career advisor. The American Society for Microbiology offers career services and professional development resources. A career advisor can help you evaluate your options based on your goals and your background.
If you are working in a specialized area, you may need additional credentials beyond ASCP or NRCM. For example, a microbiologist working in a veterinary laboratory may need additional training or certification. The Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges provides information about veterinary career paths.
If you want to advance to a leadership or research role, consider a graduate degree. The National Institutes of Health provides training and mentoring for research scientists. A master's or doctoral degree can open doors to roles that do not require certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between ASCP and NRCM certification?
ASCP certification is for clinical and medical laboratory professionals who work in hospitals and diagnostic laboratories. NRCM certification is for microbiologists who work in food, pharmaceutical, environmental, and public health settings.
Which certification is more recognized by employers?
Employer recognition depends on the workplace. Hospitals and clinical laboratories recognize ASCP. Food companies, environmental laboratories, and pharmaceutical firms recognize NRCM. Check job postings in your target field.
Can I hold both ASCP and NRCM certification?
Yes, you can hold both certifications if you meet the eligibility requirements for each. Some professionals earn both to keep their options open across different career paths.
How long does it take to earn each certification?
The time depends on your education and experience. You must meet the eligibility requirements before you can take the exam. After that, the exam itself takes a few hours.
Do I need certification to work as a microbiologist?
Certification is not always required, but it is often preferred. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a bachelor's degree is the typical entry requirement for microbiologists. Certification can improve your job prospects.
How much does certification cost?
The cost varies by certification and by your membership status with the certifying organization. Check the official websites for current fees.
How often do I need to renew my certification?
ASCP certification requires renewal every three years. NRCM certification requires renewal every five years. Both require continuing education credits.
What happens if my certification expires?
If your certification expires, you may need to retake the exam to earn it again. Keep track of your renewal deadline and complete continuing education on time.
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References and Further Reading
- Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- O*NET OnLine. U.S. Department of Labor.
- Office of Intramural Training and Education. National Institutes of Health.
- Careers at NSF. U.S. National Science Foundation.
- Career Services. American Society for Microbiology.
- AAVMC Career Resources. Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges.
- NCBI Literature Resources. National Center for Biotechnology Information.
- PubMed. National Library of Medicine.
This article is educational and does not replace institutional policy, professional advice, or applicable safety and regulatory requirements.