Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science
The Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science is a four-year program designed to prepare students for careers in diagnostic medicine and national certification through rigorous on-campus lectures and laboratory coursework, along with supervised clinical rotations at affiliated hospital laboratories. This structure ensures graduates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical experience to achieve national certification and excel in clinical laboratory careers.
Core areas of study within the curriculum include:
- hematology
- clinical chemistry
- diagnostic microbiology
- immunohematology
- immunology
- laboratory operations
- concepts of molecular diagnostics
Students develop competencies in high-complexity laboratory testing, quality assurance and quality control, laboratory safety, instruments operation and troubleshooting, and all phases of testing, including pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes. They also gain proficiency in laboratory information systems and laboratory workflow management.
Clinicians rely on Medical Laboratory Science professionals to provide critical diagnostic information essential for disease prevention, detection, and therapeutic monitoring.
Program Goals
The Medical Laboratory Sciences program is designed to:
- Prepare graduates for entry-level practice in medical laboratory sciences.
- Develop and enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to ensure accurate and timely diagnostic testing.
- Instill professionalism and a commitment to ethical practice.
- Foster effective communication and teamwork with other healthcare professionals.
- Encourage lifelong learning and professional growth
- Prepare students for eligibility and success on the Board of Certification examination.
- Apply quality control and quality assurance principles and comply with regulatory standards.
Admission to MLS Program
Admission Pathways
The Medical Laboratory Science program offers multiple entry pathways into the professional phase, including 3+1 and 4+1 options, as well as applicants who hold a graduate degree in a related field.
- In the 3+1 pathway, students complete three years of pre-requisite coursework followed by a competitive application process for admission into the 12-month professional phase consisting of intensive MLS coursework and clinical rotations.
- In the 4+1 pathway, students first complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in a related discipline (typically biology or chemistry) and then apply for admission into the 12-month professional phase.
- Applicants who hold a graduate degree in a related discipline may also apply to the professional phase, provided they meet prerequisite coursework and admission requirements.
Students from all entry pathways are admitted into and complete the professional phase together as a single cohort.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Medical Laboratory Science Program is based on program requirements and accreditation standards. Applicants must satisfy all admission requirements to be considered for acceptance into the program.
To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Prerequisite Coursework
Applicants must have completed all required prerequisite coursework, including immunology, microbiology, anatomy and physiology I and II, genetics, general chemistry I and II, and organic chemistry or biochemistry, along with the required ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University core curriculum. - Academic Performance
Applicants are required to meet a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and a science GPA of 2.5, earning at least a grade of “C” in each prerequisite course. - Application Submission
A completed application to the Medical Laboratory Science Program must be submitted by the published deadline. - Official Transcripts
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. - Technical Standards
Applicants must meet established technical standards and any additional program requirements necessary for both didactic and clinical settings. - Interview Requirement
Selected applicants are required to participate in a formal interview as part of the admissions review process.
Please note that admission could be competitive, and not all qualified applicants may be accepted due to limited clinical placement capacity.
Apply to the Medical Laboratory Science Program
Follow the steps below to complete your application:
- Complete the online application
Submit an application with all required documents and official transcripts. - Submit three letters of recommendation
Provide two academic references and one professional reference who can speak to your academic ability and potential for success in the program. - Submit a personal essay
Describe your interest in Medical Laboratory Science, career goals, and motivation for applying to the program. - Meet academic prerequisites and GPA requirements
All required coursework must be completed with a minimum grade of C. - Participate in an interview (if invited)
Interviews are conducted to assess readiness for the academic and clinical demands of the program. - Receive acceptance and attend orientation
Orientation provides information on program policies and next steps.
Medical Laboratory Science Program Mission
The Medical Laboratory Science program trains students to become skilled, entry-level medical laboratory scientists ready for their careers through rigorous coursework and supervised clinical rotations. The curriculum emphasizes technical skills, critical thinking, scientific principles, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and professionalism to ensure accurate diagnostic testing that supports safe and effective patient care.