Medical Laboratory Science Program
Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) is a biology and chemistry-based bachelor’s degree that prepares students for a challenging and rewarding medical career.
What is
MLS
Medical Laboratory Scientists are medical professionals who perform laboratory diagnostic tests on a variety of bodily fluids and tissues using scientific areas such as hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, and blood banking. The results of the analysis and evaluation aid physicians and other health professionals in both the diagnosis of disease and the management of health. West Liberty University’s MLS program prepares students for a career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.
Program
Overview
There are currently two program pathways under Medical Laboratory Sciences at West Liberty University, each preparing students to enter a career in this rewarding, medical discipline. West Liberty University students enrolled in the Medical Laboratory Sciences program get experiential, hands-on learning which prepares them to work in hospitals, physician offices, and public health laboratories. In addition, the valuable training students receive provides opportunities in basic and health-related research, health management, biotechnology, marketing, and sales.
Tuition for the MLS program consists of the base WLU tuition (depends on residency location) plus the differential cost associated with all courses in the College of Sciences. While there are no additional fees for MLS Program students, there may be other WLU charges and fees that may apply.
Program
Pathways
Medical Laboratory Science Bachelor’s Degree
This 4-year MLS program begins with student admission as a pre-MLS student for the freshman and sophomore years. During that time, students complete general college requirements in areas including liberal arts, chemistry, and biology. After successful admission to the MLS program as juniors, students complete the required in-depth MLS courses. As seniors, students then complete clinical laboratory clinicals at local affiliated hospitals. After successful completion of the clinical portion, students finish the remainder of their senior level courses required for both graduation and the board certification examination.
Medical Laboratory Science Certificate
Biology students or graduates that are interested in working in the Clinical Laboratory setting can use this certificate to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Registry exam. This is a unique pathway that allows Biology seniors or graduates three semesters to earn an MLS certificate. The first two semesters would include MLS-specific coursework on campus followed by a third semester of clinical practicum/rotations at one off the local clinical affiliates.
Accreditation
Overview
The MLS program at West Liberty University has successfully provided training for Medical Laboratory Scientists since 1943. The University is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission and the MLS Program specifically is accredited through the following:
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science
5600 N. River Road, Suite 720
Rosemont, IL 60018-5119
Phone: 773-714-8880
www.naacls.or
The Medical Laboratory Department is committed to a policy of Equal Opportunity and does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, age, religion, handicap, veteran status, sexual orientation, or national origin in the administration of its educational program, activities or with respect to admission.
MLS Program
Outcomes
West Liberty University Medical Laboratory Science Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). NAACLS accreditation involves “A process of external peer review in which NAACLS grants public recognition to education programs that meet established education standards in clinical laboratory science disciplines..” https://www.naacls.org/About.aspx Accreditation status is dependent on meeting NAACLS benchmark outcome measures including certification, graduation, graduate placement, and attrition rates.
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.