The Master of Science (MS) in Medical Laboratory Science programs are designed to prepare graduates to enter the medical laboratory field in integral roles providing diagnostic services to physicians and practitioners. PCOM offers pre-professional and post-professional degree options.
Medical laboratory scientists, often referred to as medical technologists, perform a wide array of tests on blood and body fluids, reporting all results to the ordering physicians. Their role in medical diagnostics is critical to physicians to aid in medical diagnoses. The complex testing performed on the blood and body fluids aids in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers, anemias, an array of infectious processes, and diseases.
The field of laboratory science is comprised of five major disciplines: clinical hematology and coagulation, clinical chemistry, immunohematology, medical microbiology, urinalysis and body fluids. The five major disciplines have an array of sub-specialties which are taught and trained within the program, as well.
“One of the best things about being a medical laboratory scientist is to be able to work behind the scenes, but still play an important role on the healthcare team.”
Ures Sarmiento, MS/MLS '23
“I'm interested in working in the medical laboratory science field because I've always had an interest in biology and medicine. I get to be a useful member of the healthcare team as well as practice and utilize all the medical training that I've learned.”
Rafael Arteaga (MS/MLS '24)
The Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science is designed to prepare graduates for an exciting career in medical laboratory science, enabling them to provide accurate, reliable test results that aid in diagnosis. PCOM offers two degree options:
This unique, hybrid program features coursework delivered in an online format, with monthly, intensive laboratory experience during an all-day weekend setting. Students entering the pre-professional program will have a conferred BS degree in a biologic or chemical science with appropriate prerequisite courses. This route requires all graduates to complete campus-based labs monthly and participate in five clinical rotations (one in each major discipline) for a total of 160 onsite hours of internship in each area. Students will be eligible to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification exam upon successful completion of the program.
The online MS in Medical Laboratory Science degree program is designed for students who hold a bachelor's degree in medical or clinical laboratory science from a National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredited program and are certified by either ASCP or AMT. No clinical internship is required.
Laboratory scientists study many specialized science courses specific to their work needs. These include:
Each of these disciplines prepares a clinical lab scientist for all sample sources they may encounter in their workplace. Each clinical scientist will take the above listed courses in their program, which will enable them to sit for the national certification examination.
Medical laboratory scientists are employed in a myriad of settings including:
Laboratories are temperature-controlled environments, equipped with ventilation systems and workplace safety mechanisms in place to provide a safe working environment. Depending on the department a scientist is assigned to work, sitting, standing, lifting and bending will be required throughout a work shift.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment opportunities are increasing faster than average for medical laboratory scientists and other lab professionals, with 11 percent growth projected through 2030. Approximately 25,900 openings are projected on average each year over the next decade.
For more information about medical laboratory scientists, certification and workforce outlook, please visit the following resources:
The graduate program for Medical Laboratory Science has applied for initial accreditation through the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 5600 N. River Rd. Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119; 773-714-8880. Additional information regarding NAACLS can be found on the web at www.naacls.org.
PCOM is committed to helping students maximize funding sources and minimize student debt. Visit our Office of Financial Aid section to learn about cost of attendance, types of aid available and how to apply for financial aid.
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