Program Overview

MS in Biomedical Laboratory Management (BLM)

The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences of Hunter College (MLS/HC) has developed a Master's degree to support career advancement of biomedical laboratory professionals, including MLS alumni. The objective of the BLM degree is to provide working laboratory professionals with the knowledge and skills to enter positions of leadership in clinical/diagnostic, research, biotechnology, public health, and pharmaceutical settings.

Overview

The curriculum (30 credits) is divided between HC, offering science and biomedicine classes, and SPS, offering business and management classes. The capstone internship completes the academic program. The MS degree is granted by HC following transfer of SPS courses. Graduates also earn the Advanced Certificate in Management (SPS).

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the BLM MS program, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the scientific knowledge and business skills needed to enter positions of leadership in biomedical laboratories
2. Compose and present written and verbal biomedical information clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences
3. Understand the role of compliance and ethical standards in science and business
4. Create, evaluate, and implement project plans to enhance the operation of the biomedical laboratory
5. Understand organizational needs, strengths, and weaknesses and keep up with the ever-changing laboratory technology
6. Demonstrate the ability to work in teams and achieve common goals

FAQs

• For whom is this degree designed?
  • The degree is designed for working professionals who have been employed as a technologist or in a similar bench role in a biomedical laboratory for at least a year and are ambitious to use their scientific knowledge to become a leader and decision maker in the lab.
• What professional goals will the BLM prepare me to achieve?
  • The BLM will prepare students to accept management positions in biomedical laboratories, including research, diagnostic, biotech/pharmaceutical, and public health settings.
• What are the requirements for admission to the BLM?
  • Requirements include:
    • Baccalaureate (BS/BA) in clinical lab science, biology, chemistry, or a related discipline, with a GPA of at least 3.0/4.0
    • Course (or equivalent experience) in Molecular Biology (pre- or co-requisite)
    • Minimum 1 year of bench experience employed in a biomedical laboratory
    • Two references, one from the current employer/supervisor
    • Statement of purpose (500 words) including the aspects of the background that bring the applicant to apply, and their goals in laboratory management
• What will I study? What is the format of study?
  • The curriculum includes required courses from both HC and SPS, with an emphasis on real-world problems and case studies.
• How long will I study? Can I complete the BLM part-time?
  • The program can be completed on a part-time basis, typically in 2-3 years.

Required Courses

Hunter College Courses

• MLS 700. Concepts of Disease and Diagnostic Strategies
  • Analysis of model disease entities to design strategies for effective laboratory studies.
• MLS 701. Emerging Laboratory Technologies
  • Analysis of new technologies in biomedical science for scientific innovation, cost effectiveness, and impact on patient and research outcomes.
• MLS 770.25 Topics: Biohazards and Emergency Response
  • Biology of microorganisms and toxins associated with perpetrated attacks, including technology for detection and control.
• MLS 710. Management Practicum
  • Students design and implement a specific management project, often in their current laboratory, under supervision.
• MLS 720. Risk Management for the Biomedical Laboratory
  • Exploration of risk management from diverse origins, including lab/medical hazards, regulation, and fiscal sources.

SPS Courses

• MGT 681. Graduate Financial Management
  • Definition, comprehension, and application of a market-driven theory for ethically based, strategic financial decisions.
• BUS 600. Organization Behavior and Leadership
  • Introduction to major concepts, models, theories, and research in organizational behavior and leadership.
• MGT 680. Human Resource Management-Graduate
  • Critical analysis of recent literature on the role of Human Resource Management in organizations and consideration of application to work organizations.

Application Deadlines

• The Spring 2027 application deadline is November 1st, 2026.
• The Fall 2026 application deadline is April 15th, 2026.
• Non-degree options are also available.