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Medical Laboratory Science

Degree Type
  • Certificate
Location
  • Main Campus - Radford, VA and Radford University Carilion - Roanoke, VA
Format
  • In-Person

Overview

The Medical Laboratory Science certificate program prepares students for a variety of career opportunities in medical, research, veterinary, and reference laboratories. Students enjoy a mix of classroom, laboratory, clinical, and field experiences. This one-year program is designed for applicants who have previously completed a baccalaureate degree in a related science and want to further their education or change careers, but do not have enough transfer credits to complete a second baccalaureate degree in Medical Laboratory Science.

student in lab

Why choose the Medical Laboratory Science Certificate at Radford?

  • Our students experience a blend of traditional lecture courses, laboratory classes and clinical  rotations to prepare them for employment in the medical laboratory field.
  • Our program has agreements with several accredited laboratories where you will complete your clinical rotations.
  • You will have access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, and national leaders in all areas of healthcare practice and administration.
  • You’ll do real patient work with 700 clinical hours in small groups with certified preceptors.
  • MLS certificate graduates are competent in all the disciplines within medical laboratory science, giving them greater flexibility in the workforce.

Contact Us

Laura R. Link, MS, MLS (ASCP)CM
Program Director and Assistant Professor
llink1@radford.edu

Krystina Angelini, MS, MLS (ASCP)CM SMCM
Assistant Professor
kangelini@radford.edu

Jennifer L McBride MS, MLS (ASCP)CM
Instructor
jlmcbride1@radford.edu

Phone: 540-831-1000

Mailing Address:
Carilion Roanoke Community Hospital (CRCH)
101 Elm Avenue SE
Roanoke, VA 24013

Career Opportunities

Successful graduates will:

  • Master the foundational principles of clinical laboratory science and testing, including the pathological indications for performing specific laboratory tests
  • Understand system planning, including quality control and method validation
  • Assess a wide range of patient laboratory values and determine when values are abnormal or potentially erroneous
  • Interpret and understand new protocols, technologies, and advances in the field of medical laboratory science specifically and medical science generally

After receiving your Medical Laboratory Science degree, you will have the opportunity to begin your career in a wide range of healthcare settings, including:

  •          Hospitals (inpatient and outpatient)
  •          Physician offices
  •          Research laboratories
  •          Employment services
  •          Laboratory information systems
  •          Sales and marketing
  •          Government agencies
  •          Outpatient care centers
  •          Test development facilities
  •          Educational institutions
  •          Equipment testing, maintenance, and development
  •          Public health

Radford University Carilion graduates have a 100% job placement rate, and there are growing opportunities for medical laboratory science graduates nationally. It is estimated that the medical laboratory science field will need more than 50,000 new laboratorians by 2024.  MLS faculty mentor students to help them identify the employment setting best suited for them and actively assist students with job searches and interview preparation.

Accreditation

The Medical Laboratory Science program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 5600 N. River Rd., Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119. We were awarded five years of continuing accreditation on April 19, 2024. 

Admissions Requirements

This one-year program is designed for applicants who have previously completed a baccalaureate degree in a related science and want to further their education or change careers, but do not have enough transfer credits to complete a second baccalaureate degree in Medical Laboratory Science.  Applicants interested in this career field should contact the Radford University Carilion Admissions Office or the Medical Laboratory Science Program Director for more information.

Related Programs

  • 100% Placement Rates

    2022: 100%
    2023: 100%
    2024: 100%

  • High Graduation Rates

    2022: 100%
    2023: 100%
    2024: 90%

  • High Exam Pass Rates

    2021: 84%
    2022: 76%
    2023: 81%

 

We get you ready for the workforce

Each year, billions of laboratory tests are ordered in the United States and medical laboratory scientists perform and interpret tests, make recommendations for appropriate treatment and deliver quality data to ensure the best patient care. We prepare students for successful careers as Medical laboratory scientists.

student in lab

 

Ready to Study at Radford?

We want to get to know you better and we are excited that you are ready to take your next step and learn more about us. We are here to help you and look forward to working with you during your college search process.