Graduates of medical laboratory science programs have the option to work as generalists, performing tests across all areas of the clinical lab, or to specialize in fields like microbiology. With experience, they can pursue advanced certifications. Career paths also include roles in quality improvement, point-of-care testing management, laboratory safety, management, outreach, lab information systems, and education.
The expertise of medical laboratory scientists is highly valued by employers in various sectors, such as research, forensics, veterinary labs, physician office labs, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and industries involved in sales, installation, and support of lab equipment, supplies, and services.
There is currently a critical shortage of certified medical laboratory scientists, with demand growing as new tests emerge and many professionals in the field retire. Salaries typically range from $56,000 to over $100,000, depending on experience, location, and job responsibilities.
For this degree you will get you the prerequisite coursework that you need to be a good candidate for application to a any MLS program within the region. These courses include:
- General Chemistry at least 2 semesters (with laboratories)
- General Biology at least 2 semesters (with laboratories)
- Organic Chemistry - 2 semesters (with laboratories)
- Genetics- 1 semester (with laboratory)
- Immunology- 1 semester
- Biochemistry – 2 semesters (with laboratory)
- Microbiology – 1 semester (with laboratory)
