Medical Laboratory Science (B.S.M.L.S.)
Medical laboratory science is a challenging and rewarding healthcare profession. An essential member of the healthcare team, the medical technologist/medical laboratory scientist provides vital information about the status and function of the body and its systems. Students acquire the skills and knowledge needed to provide data, obtained by precision instruments and electronic equipment, that is utilized in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. When the B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science degree requirements are successfully completed, the graduate is eligible for MLS examination and certification through the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Medical Laboratory Science (B.S.M.L.S.)
Description
What is Medical Laboratory Science at ODU like?
Medical laboratory science is a challenging and rewarding healthcare profession. An essential member of the healthcare team, the medical technologist/medical laboratory scientist provides vital information about the status and function of the body and its systems. Students acquire the skills and knowledge needed to provide data, obtained by precision instruments and electronic equipment, that is utilized in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. When the B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science degree requirements are successfully completed, the graduate is eligible for MLS examination and certification through the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Program Highlights
What makes Medical Laboratory Science at ODU unique?
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Microscopy and performance of manual assays with dexterity and precision
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Quality control, quality assurance and performance improvement
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Utilization of a computerized information system for data input, retrieval and analysis
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Service learning projects are available such as the annual Faye E. Coleman Memorial blood drive sponsored by Medical Laboratory Science Student Association (MLSSA).
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Medical laboratory instrument operation, maintenance and troubleshooting critical assessment of laboratory test outcomes
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Clinical laboratory rotations at eight major health systems or hospitals in the area, excellent MLS certification pass rates, nearly 100% job placement rates every year
Careers
What are some careers in this field?
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
MEDIAN SALARY
Perform complex medical laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. May train or supervise staff.
Quality Control Systems Managers
$110,580
MEDIAN SALARY
Plan, direct, or coordinate quality assurance programs. Formulate quality control policies and control quality of laboratory and production efforts.
Quality Control Analysts
$51,160
MEDIAN SALARY
Conduct tests to determine quality of raw materials, bulk intermediate and finished products. May conduct stability sample tests.
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
$122,890
MEDIAN SALARY
Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.
Courses
What are some courses offered in Medical Laboratory Science at ODU?
MLS 310:
Urinalysis and Body Fluids
A study of the chemical, physical and microscopic analysis of human urine and other body fluids, with abnormal results interpreted and correlated to disease processes and cancer cytology of the urinary tract. Prerequisites: BIOL 250 and BIOL 251 or permission of the instructor.
MLS 403W:
Management in the Clinical Setting
A course concerned with organization and management in the clinical setting including personnel supervision, planning, equipment justification, quality assurance, data processing, budgeting, fiscal techniques, marketing, regulatory agencies, educational methodologies, current issues, as well as legal and ethical considerations. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: junior standing and a grade of C or better in ENGL 110C and ENGL 211C or ENGL 221C or ENGL 231C.
MLS 210:
Orientation to Medical Laboratory Science
An introduction to the profession of medical laboratory science (previously called medical technology). Professional, ethical and operational issues will be discussed.
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Medical Laboratory Science at ODU?
Students entering the BSMLS program in Medical Laboratory Science should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)
- Completed program application form with goals statement
- Official transcripts from all universities and colleges attended
- Biology and chemistry prerequisites cumulative grade point average
- Three reference forms are required (at least two from an academic source and cannot be provided by the applicant’s relative)
- Formal interview after initial pre-screening
For admission to the Medical Laboratory Science program
GPA:
Overall grade point average (accepted MLS students have GPA of 3.1 on average)
Cost
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Virginia Resident
Per Credit:
$ 374
Non-Resident
Per Credit:
$ 1,039
Active Duty Military Rate
Per Credit:
$ 250
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Per Credit:
$ 407
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Next Steps
I like this program. What are the next steps?
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Contact
Need help applying?
Meet Your Enrollment Team
Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Name:
Barbara Kraj PhD, MLS (ASCP) CMMBCM
Location:
2118 HEALTH SCIENCES BLDG, NORFOLK, VA, 23529
Email:
Office:
757-683-6039
Undergraduate Admissions
Location:
1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3685
Fax:
757-683-3255
Email:
admissions@odu.edu
International Admissions
Location:
2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3701
Fax:
757-683-3651
Email:
intladm@odu.edu
Transfer
I like this program and want to transfer. What are my next steps?
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transition, engagement, and academic achievement of transfer students. The services and programs offered to you as a Monarch are endless so take advantage of every opportunity. Even before you set foot on campus, we encourage you to Explore, Experience, and Engage! Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
Related Programs
What other options does ODU have?
How would you like to complete your program?
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