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Medical Laboratory Science 

Bachelor of Science

The Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS) degree at College of Saint Mary prepares you to play a critical role on the healthcare team—performing the laboratory tests that help diagnose, monitor, and treat disease. Working behind the scenes, medical laboratory scientists use advanced technology to analyze blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids—providing essential information that guides patient care.

You’ll spend three years on campus completing science and core coursework, followed by a year of hands-on clinical training at Nebraska Methodist Hospital*—gaining the knowledge and skills to excel in this high-demand field.

*Acceptance into Nebraska Methodist Hospital’s MLS program is required for the clinical year.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are eligible to take the ASCP Board of Certification exam and can pursue careers such as:

  • Medical Laboratory Scientist / Clinical Laboratory Scientist
  • Blood Bank Technologist
  • Microbiology or Hematology Lab Technician
  • Public Health Laboratory Scientist
  • Laboratory Manager or Supervisor
  • Research or Pharmaceutical Laboratory Assistant
     

Medical laboratory scientists are in demand nationwide, working in hospitals, clinics, public health departments, diagnostic labs, biotechnology companies, and research institutions. This degree is also an excellent foundation for graduate study in medical laboratory science, public health, pathology, or medical school.

Program Details & Curriculum

Program Details & Curriculum

Start Date: August or January of each year
Program Length: 4 Years

Explore our curriculum to see the classes, skills, and hands-on experiences that will shape your path. View Program in Catalog

Admissions Requirements 

Admissions Requirements 
  1. Submit your application online—it’s quick and easy!
  2. Send Your Transcripts
    • If you’re a transfer student, send us transcripts from any colleges or universities you’ve attended.
    • You’re considered a transfer student if you’ve completed 12 or more college credit hours with at least a 2.0 GPA.

       

Test-Optional Admissions

You can apply with or without ACT/SAT scores—your choice! Here’s what to know:

  • Not submitting test scores will not hurt your chances for admission or merit scholarships.
  • If you send scores after you’ve been admitted (by March 31), we’ll check if you qualify for a higher merit scholarship.
  • Don’t worry—sending scores later will never reduce or take away a scholarship you already have.

Career Outlook

Career Outlook

Medical laboratory scientists are in high demand across the healthcare industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, public health departments, diagnostic labs, biotechnology companies, and research institutions—playing a vital role in diagnosing and treating disease. Strong job stability, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career advancement make MLS an excellent long-term career choice.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook — Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, 2023

Faculty

Faculty

Women Leading in Science

Our Biology faculty bring expertise, real-world experience, and a passion for mentoring—empowering the next generation of women to excel in science.

Meet our Faculty

Clinical Experiences Give CSM Students a Head Start

“You get that hands-on experience in a lab,” Makayla said.

The clinical rotations consist of two different experiences, each eight and 15 weeks.

“I get a bunch of hands-on experience streaking plates and setting cultures,” she said. “That's interesting. Learning all the techniques in a lab now is very helpful.”

Makayla said her professors are supportive, too.

Read More About Makayla's Experience at CSM