Medical Laboratory Science
Analyze. Discover. Make a Difference.
The Medical Laboratory Science major is designed for students with a passion for science who are eager to play a vital role in the healthcare field. The program offers hands-on laboratory experience with interdisciplinary coursework in chemistry, biochemistry, and biology.
Elizabethtown College offers two pathways for students interested in Medical Laboratory Science. The 3+1 program allows you to complete three years of coursework at Etown, followed by a year of specialized clinical training at an accredited medical laboratory science program. Alternatively, our traditional 4-year bachelor’s degree option provides a strong foundation in laboratory sciences, preparing you to enter clinical training programs or pursue graduate school or various career opportunities in laboratory settings, healthcare, and biomedical research.
Two Pathways to Program Completion
A medical laboratory scientist must become certified by passing the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification Exam. Elizabethtown College offers two pathways for students interested in Medical Laboratory Science.
3+1 Medical Laboratory Science Program
In the 3+1 program, students complete three years of coursework at Etown, followed by a 12-month clinical experience at a National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences accredited medical laboratory science program, leading to certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist. This option provides hands-on training in a clinical setting and prepares students to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification Exam which will allow them to work as certified medical laboratory scientists.
Tuition and applicable fees for the Clinical Laboratory Experience are determined by and paid directly to the accredited NAACLS program. Students are billed a $500 administrative fee per semester from the College, and they are encouraged to work directly with their Financial Aid Officer to address individual needs during the senior year. Admission to Elizabethtown College does not guarantee admission to an accredited MLS training program and the (3+1) Program.
Traditional Medical Laboratory Science Program
In the traditional 4-year pathway, students complete their bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science at Etown. Upon completion of the bachelor's degree, students may apply to an accredited medical laboratory science program to prepare for the certification exam. This program option provides extensive hands-on laboratory experience, and students would also be prepared for several other career paths including research scientist, laboratory technician, and quality control chemist.
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What Can I Do With a Degree in Medical Laboratory Science from Elizabethtown College?
As a medical laboratory scientist—formerly known as a clinical laboratory technician or clinical laboratory technologist—you’ll be at the forefront of healthcare, using chemical and biological techniques to analyze specimens. Your work will help doctors diagnose and treat diseases, making a real impact on patient lives. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, our Medical Laboratory Science program at Elizabethtown College ensures you’re prepared for this critical and high-demand career path.
343,200
Jobs Nationally
(2023)
$60,780
Median Annual Pay
(2023)
$29.22
Median Hourly Pay
(2023)
5%
Projected 10-year Growth
(2023-2033)
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Expert Faculty
Our program is led by experienced science faculty who bring real-world knowledge and professional experiences into the classroom. Class sizes are kept intentionally small in order to offer personalized support. Clinical laboratory training in the +1 year is completed in the clinical setting with experienced clinical laboratory technologists as instructors.
Advanced Laboratories
You will have access to modern laboratories and laboratory equipment which allow you to prepare for clinical settings. These facilities provide a hands-on learning environment that allow you to develop skills and gain the practical experience that you need to succeed.
Interdisciplinary Curriculum
Our program offers interdisciplinary coursework. Students take courses in chemistry, biochemistry, and biology along with complementary major courses and core courses outside of the major to complete a well-rounded academic experience.
Public Health Minor
The Public Health minor at Elizabethtown College equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills from sociology, biology, political science, communications, and epidemiology, preparing them for careers that promote health, prevent disease, and improve communities through active engagement and leadership.