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Department Chairperson- Dr. John Whitlock

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Medical Laboratory Science includes careers in hospitals and diagnostic laboratories that involve collecting samples and examining body fluids and other substances to diagnose diseases and disorders.  This “behind-the-scenes” job is less about patient interaction and more about laboratory analysis.  For example, a Medical Laboratory scientist can perform microscopic analysis of normal and abnormal blood smears, analysis of enzymatic activity, identification of microorganisms that cause disease, or molecular and serological analysis.  The Medical Laboratory Science program at Mount Aloysius College is a 3+1 program where preparatory coursework is completed in the first three years in biology, chemistry, and math. The final year of coursework and clinical hours are completed through a clinical rotation.  During their junior year at Mount Aloysius, eligible students will apply to our clinical affiliate, Conemaugh School of Medical Laboratory Science, and will be selected by them for admittance into their program based on interview and academic achievement.  Clinical shadowing experience is not required before the interview. However, it may benefit students to tour or shadow to learn more about job requirements.  To be eligible, students must have a 2.8 GPA overall and in science prerequisite courses.  Since admission to the clinical phase is competitive, Mount Aloysius College cannot guarantee admission. However, the student’s academic advisor can provide information about the completion of alternative degrees, such as Biology, should the student not be selected for the articulation phase of MLS. 

After completing the coursework and clinical phase, graduates become eligible to sit for certification exams through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).  Additionally, numerous specialist exams, such as Blood Banking, Chemistry, Hematology, or Microbiology, have specific requirements.  More information is available at the ASCP website, https://apps.ascp.org/BOCROUTEFINDER. 

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This program will provide students with the training needed to work in the field of medical laboratory science.  Medical laboratory scientists perform medical tests to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease.  Learning outcomes for the program outcomes include:

1). Laboratory Skills:  Students will be able to demonstrate appropriate skills in laboratory procedures.

2). Reasoning and Analysis: Students will be able to critically analyze scientific data and its interpretation both in the literature and in their own experimental work.

3). Communication Skills: Students will be able to organize and express scientific knowledge and their own ideas clearly and coherently both in written and oral formats.

4). Collaboration: Students will demonstrate respectful communication and collaboration within groups to function cooperatively in a team setting. 

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Requirements for Admission

Completion of high school coursework in biology, chemistry, and algebra with a “C” or better.

Note: Students considering options in Biology might consider taking the Seminar Series in Biology (BIOL 190, 191 etc.) and other Biology courses if they decide not to complete Medical Laboratory Science.

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