Medical Laboratory Science

Medical laboratory scientists perform analytical procedures and operate complex instruments to test blood and body fluids, providing critical data that help physicians diagnose and treat patients, monitor diseases, and implement prevention strategies. Because these tests play such a vital role in medical care, laboratory scientists must not only carry them out with scientific precision and accuracy but also thoroughly understand the scientific principles and clinical implications behind the results.

You work across key laboratory disciplines, including chemistry, hematology, microbiology, urinalysis, immunohematology, and immunology. Beyond running tests, these professionals help interpret results in the context of patient information and clearly communicate their findings to the healthcare team. You also monitor quality control, conduct research, develop new tests and methodologies, and supervise lab personnel. While patient interaction is limited, you play a crucial and valued role within the healthcare team.

To learn more about pursuing an education and career in medical lab science visit:

Your path to a bachelor's of science degree with a major in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) includes three years of academic coursework, and an 11- to 12-month professional program including clinical experience at one of NDSU's affiliated hospital programs. All affiliated programs are accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS). Students pursuing medical laboratory science should have an interest and aptitude in the sciences, particularly chemistry, biology and microbiology.

Graduates of the MLS program, are eligible to complete a national certifying exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP BOC). Although not a guarantee of individual results, historically, NDSU graduates enjoy excellent job placement and pass rates on the ASCP BOC exam.

Students apply to the professional program during the academic year they will complete all prerequisite coursework. You will work closely with your NDSU academic advisor to prepare for a successful professional program application. The professional program is a rigorous full-time, 40-hour/week commitment to learning the theory and competencies of MLS and completed at one of our affiliated sites.

Admission to one of the professional programs is selective and based upon:

  • Declared pre-MLS major at NDSU;
  • Completed prerequisite coursework;
  • Earn a C or better in all courses to be used to fulfill major and degree requirements;
  • Cumulative and science grade point averages;
  • References;
  • Career motivation & relevant experience;
  • Personal interview;
  • Satisfactory criminal background and adherence to conduct requirements;
  • Ability to complete the essential functions established by the affiliated hospital program.

The professional program includes lecture and "hands-on" bench instruction in phlebotomy, clinical chemistry, hematology, immunology, immunohematology, urinalysis, microbiology, education, management, and research methods.

Students are routinely evaluated by on-site hospital faculty and clinical preceptors throughout their professional program. The professional-level of their programming consists of didactic coursework and clinical courses for which the hospital program awards letter grades on an official hospital transcript. Clinical performance is evaluated using a competency-based evaluation system. NDSU awards a "P" grade ('Pass') for each semester of enrollment in MLS 496-Field Experience/Internship, signifying satisfactory progress toward completing the professional-level requirements.

A maximum of 30 credits from NDSU will be awarded for successful completion of the professional program, including didactic coursework and clinical experiences, while in the affiliated hospital's program. The 30 credits are distributed as follows: 6 credits for one summer session and 12 credits for each fall and spring semester enrolled.

During the professional program, students are enrolled at NDSU and pay tuition and student fees to NDSU at the student's regular resident rate. Students who qualify to receive financial aid through NDSU may continue to do so during the professional program.

In accordance with the agreement between NDSU and the affiliate hospitals, NDSU sends a designated portion of tuition collected from the student each semester to the respective hospital affiliate site to assist in covering hospital expenses associated with the professional program. A student enrolled in the professional program is exempt from tuition discounts that reduce tuition below the ND resident rate.

Outside of NDSU tuition and student fees, professional-level students may also pay some associated fees directly to the hospital program to cover expenses like textbooks, activity or clinical fees, and mock board exams. Uniforms may be purchased through the hospital, a uniform specialty shop or other provider. During the application process and once accepted into a professional program, the hospital will provide the student with more information about the non-NDSU-related program expenses. Students are responsible for providing their own living accommodations and transportation during the professional program.

Allied Sciences

Page Manager