Medical Laboratory Science FAQ

What is a medical laboratory scientist?

The medical laboratory scientist (MLS) is a highly skilled scientist who functions in multiple roles. Some of these roles include performing and evaluating diagnostic laboratory procedures on body fluids, developing new diagnostic procedures, supervising biomedical research projects, providing technical expertise, consulting, managing clinical and research laboratory departments, and analyzing and implementing laboratory information systems. The major areas of interest in laboratory science are hematology, immunohematology (transfusion medicine), clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, clinical immunology, body fluid analysis and molecular diagnostics.

What is the difference between a medical laboratory scientist and a medical technologist?

None. Over the last decade the profession has pushed to change its name from medical technology to medical laboratory science to better define our role in health care. As such, we feel that the term "medical laboratory scientist" is more descriptive of who we are and what we do.

When should I apply for your program?

Our application deadline is April 1, but you may apply any time between July 1 and April 1 for entrance into the following fall semester. You do not need all of your prerequisites completed before applying. However, you are required to have all prerequisite course work completed before entering the program in the fall semester.

Who are the faculty?

All of our faculty (academic and clinical) are credentialed professionals. The majority of the faculty in the department hold terminal degrees in areas related to the profession and have extensive teaching experience. Our faculty are well-published and have presented papers, posters, and workshops at the national, regional and state levels. All of the faculty are involved with professional organizations and encourage students to become actively involved.

 I want to go to medical school. Should I major in medical laboratory science?

Yes. Several of our students have continued their education by obtaining a doctor of medicine degree. A bachelor of science degree in medical laboratory science is an excellent preparation for medical school. Laboratory medicine is a very important part of medical diagnosis and by obtaining a MLS degree you will have additional knowledge to enhance your diagnostic skills during your third and fourth years of medical school. 

What electives should I take as prerequisite courses?

Medical Laboratory Science is a very diverse profession. It will be to your advantage to take courses in the advanced sciences (i.e., genetics, cell biology, embryology, quantitative analysis, physical chemistry) and business (i.e., management, marketing, accounting, information systems).