Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Science degree program with a concentration in medical laboratory sciences enables students to perform analytical tests on blood, tissue, and body fluids in order to provide laboratory information for the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases.

Program Description

Students learn to work independently using skills and knowledge that are greater in depth and breadth compared with those of medical laboratory technicians, who are typically graduates of a two-year or community college program. Achieving a BAS in Medical Laboratory Science is possible through two distinct pathways. Graduates of both pathways are eligible to sit for a national certification examination for MLS credentials.

Program Pathways

There are two modalities to pursue this degree:

• Online professional program: The traditional medical laboratory science program coursework is offered 100% online for students who are currently working as medical laboratory technicians in the field. The program has one start date per year in spring and may be completed in two years.
  • Applicants are required to have existing employment in a laboratory setting, with permission from their employer to perform practical assignments at work.
  • Students are responsible for identifying and obtaining laboratory placement as well as completing necessary affiliation agreement requirements.
• Phoenix College partnership program: The Phoenix College partnership pathway is offered both in person at Phoenix College and via asynchronous coursework. Students gain admission to this program through a competitive application process. Once admitted, students complete their laboratory practicums through ASU contracted sites.

Accreditation

This program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science.

STEM-OPT for International Students

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S.

At a Glance

• College/school: College of Health Solutions
• Location: Downtown Phoenix or Online
• Second language requirement: No
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
• First required math course: MAT 114 - College Mathematics
• Math intensity: General

Curriculum

View the 2025 - 2026 curriculum for detailed information.

Concurrent Program Options

Students pursuing concurrent degrees earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination.

Admission Requirements

General University Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Online professional program:
  • Associate of Applied Science degree in medical laboratory technician
  • Prerequisite coursework with a grade of "C" or higher
  • Two years of experience working in medical lab sciences or MLT certification
  • Verification statement or letter of intent from current lab facility employer to host practicum or clinical rotations
• Phoenix College partnership program:
  • Gain admission to Phoenix College
  • Complete the program application
  • Review and sign the checklist
  • Submit the materials to the program director

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Change of Major Requirements

Current ASU students who wish to change their major must meet the admission requirements for the program.

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU.

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program’s learning outcomes include:

• Analyze patient specimens in the area of immunohematology/antibody identification using various testing procedures
• Adhere to laboratory protocols in the clinical chemistry area to identify proper quality control and patient values
• Identify the clinical significance of various microbiology culture results with accurate patient workups and result reporting

Global Opportunities

With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, applied science students are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for advanced employment opportunities within the fields of medical technology, cytology, clinical laboratory science, and related areas.

Professional Licensure

ASU programs that may lead to professional licensure or certification are intended to prepare students for potential licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet educational requirements for licensure or certification in another state.