Medical Laboratory Science
Bellarmine offers many pathways to obtaining your Medical Laboratory science degree.
Bellarmine University offers several pathways to obtaining your MLS degree, based on where you are in your academic journey and what career path you’d like to pursue. Students in Louisville can choose between two tracks to earn a Bachelor of Health Science in Medical Laboratory Science (the 4-year Practitioner track or the 4-year Pre-Professional track). Those looking to obtain an advanced degree can earn a Master of Health Science in Medical Lab Science, which can be completed in two years and boasts a 100% employment rate for graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Medical Lab Scientist do?
Medical Laboratory Scientists (formerly Clinical Laboratory Scientists or Medical Technologists) provide the science that supports healthcare. Most diagnostic and therapeutic medical decisions
are based on laboratory test results generated by a Medical Laboratory Scientist. They apply skill and instrumentation to analyze blood cells and body fluids, to identify disease-causing bacteria and viruses, and to perform testing prior to transfusions
and transplantation.
Where are clinical lab career opportunities?
MLS graduates are employed primarily in hospital laboratories, but also enjoy career opportunities in biomedical research, forensics, biotechnology, toxicology, health care administration,
pharmaceuticals, and other industries. An MLS degree also provides excellent preparation for medical, dental, or graduate school.
What kind of classes will I be taking?
Students complete hands-on technical courses in Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Medical Microbiology, Clinical Immunology, and Immunohematology (Blood Banking). MLS students complete a one-semester clinical internship at one or more of our affiliated Louisville-area hospitals. The 4-year Practitioner degree program for undergraduates begins with 2 years of general education requirements and science prerequisites.
When will I apply?
Students apply for admission to the MLS program during the sophomore year and spend junior and senior years in the professional program. The Bellarmine also offers a pre-professional option for students interested in medical or graduate school and a visiting student program for affiliated universities.