Medical Laboratory Science, AAS

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Program Description

The Associate of Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Science (formerly Clinical Laboratory Technology) provides the student with entry-level competence in the laboratory that would render him/her competitive for employment and/or advancement as well as allowing him/her to take the national (American Society of Clinical Pathologists, ASCP) certification examination for Medical Laboratory Technicians. Classroom instruction and clinical experiences prepare individuals to perform diagnostic tests and procedures under the supervision of medical technologists and pathologists. Students should note that some courses have prerequisites, which must be completed before enrolling in upper-level courses and continuing in the program. This program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Although a terminal degree program, general education requirements, as well as some of the medical laboratory science, may be transferable to a variety of baccalaureate programs.

Program Goals

To enable students to acquire the general education competencies expected of an associate of applied science degree graduate
To teach basic scientific and clinical concepts which will prepare students for entry-level as Medical Laboratory/Clinical Laboratory Technicians
To provide students with an opportunity to develop the psychomotor skills necessary to function effectively in the clinical laboratory

Program Learning Outcomes

Students completing the Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Laboratory Science (formerly Clinical Laboratory Technology) will:

Understand safety, quality control, and quality assurance regulations in the daily operation of the medical laboratory.
Evaluate sample quality to ensure accurate results.
Interpret laboratory findings for various disease processes.
Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct with the patients, the public, and other healthcare professionals.
Demonstrate competency as entry-level MLTs in performing basic and advanced laboratory testing on blood and body fluids.

Applying for the Program

Before applying, all interested applicants should read the complete packet before applying to Medical Laboratory Science.

This is a limited enrollment program. A selective admission process is used to select candidates for enrollment in the program. Prospective students must attend a mandatory MLS Information Session. Sessions are held in March, April and May. Students must be accepted to the program to enroll in any of the MLTS courses.

Specific Degree Requirements

Students wishing to earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Medical Laboratory Science (formerly Clinical Laboratory Technology) from South Louisiana Community College must:

Pass a background check.
Pass a color-blindness examination.
Read and communicate orally and in writing using the English language
Submit a History & Physical examination report certifying they are physically and emotionally fit for the program
As documented by a physician on the history & physical exam document, students must demonstrate the ability to meet technical/performance standards (related to ADA compliance) throughout the MLS Program
Provide recent (less than one year) TB skin test or Chest x-ray.
Submit proof of current immunizations or titers.
Pass a drug screen.
Must purchase the required class and clinical uniform(s), and supplies as outlined by the instructor
Obtain CPR Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider certification.
Adhere to HIPAA and other confidentiality clauses involving client care or clinical training.
Arrange transportation to clinical sites, or any additional trainings, or any extra-curricular activities.
Have a degree program adjusted SLCC cumulative average of 2.0
Have earned at least 25 percent of the credit hours required for the degree through SLCC courses.
Have earned at least a “C” in each course unless stated by a specific program.
Have no more than one-third credit hours in required major courses and no more than 50 percent of credit hours total from non-traditional sources, Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), to meet the degree requirements, unless required by a specific program.
Have completed at least the number of credits stipulated in the degree program.