Medical Laboratory Science

Career - what can you do with a medical labratory science degree?

There is a huge demand for medical laboratory scientists. All of our students who are looking for employment find a job within six months of graduation. 

Most medical laboratory scientists work in laboratories. They may work in:

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Physicians’ offices
• Research centers
• Industrial and commercial settings

Medical laboratory scientists also work in the areas of biotechnology, toxicology and various specialties such as cytogenetics and transplantation. They may pursue careers in:

• Laboratory supervision
• Management
• Education
• Customer training or sales (instrumentation, pharmaceuticals and new technology)

The MLS major can also prepare you for graduate or professional school.

Curriculum

Medical laboratory science students are encouraged to acquire a liberal arts education during the first two years of the program while completing prerequisite science courses. 

You are required to apply to the professional portion of the program, typically upon completion of your sophomore year in the spring. 

The junior and senior years are devoted to completion of:

• Core required courses
• Professional study and training through lectures, laboratory instruction, seminars and supervised clinical practice at an affiliated hospital laboratory 

Students who enter the program as a freshman should complete the degree in four years. Students who transfer from another university or major may require more time to complete the pre-professional portion of the program.

Those who successfully complete the program receive a Bachelor of Science in medical laboratory science (formerly medical technology) and certificate of clinical training. You are then eligible to take either of the national certification examinations for medical laboratory scientists. 

Required courses

Internships

You will complete an 18-week clinical practicum at one of our many affiliated medical centers in the area during your junior and senior years. This hands-on learning opportunity provides:

• Experience in research and clinical practice
• A chance to apply your knowledge to real-world problems and situations
• Invaluable networking opportunities with practitioners in the field

Admission to professional portion of the program

You are required to apply to the professional program, typically at the end of your sophomore year in the spring. 

Transfer students who have completed their required core science courses and BG Perspective requirements (general education prerequisites) can meet with an academic advisor or the MLS program director to determine eligibility for application.

Admission requirements

• GPA of 2.5 of higher
• Completion of required courses with a grade of “C” or better

You must maintain a 2.5 GPA throughout the professional program. Any courses resulting in a grade lower than “C” must be repeated.