Program Overview

Medical Laboratory Science

Overview

The Medical Laboratory Science program at the University at Buffalo (UB) is designed for individuals who want to learn how to use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to perform fast, accurate, and often life-saving lab tests. This program teaches students how to work effectively inside a hospital laboratory or similar environment.

What will I learn?

This program teaches students how to work effectively inside a hospital laboratory or similar environment. Students will typically spend the first few years taking core classes and labs in biology and chemistry. Once they have that foundation, they will take courses that teach them how to properly perform lab tests in many different areas, such as:

• Hematology (bloodwork)
• Immunology
• Urinalysis
• Microbiology

Students will also get practical experience through clinical rotations.

What can I do outside of class?

As a medical laboratory science major, students will have clinical rotations within local hospitals and labs to apply what they have learned—and build their confidence. By practicing in a real-world setting, students will be even more prepared for their certification and career.

Students can conduct research on campus with UB faculty to practice their lab skills—and present their findings.

Some students choose to study abroad, and spend a summer living and learning in a different country.

Students can also make friends, build their network, and meet speakers by joining student clubs and attending events on campus throughout the year.

Fieldwork

• Clinical rotations within local hospitals and labs
• Research on campus with UB faculty
• Study abroad opportunities
• Student clubs and events

What can I do with a medical laboratory science degree?

This program is designed to help students earn their national certification as a medical laboratory scientist when they graduate, so they can start working in the field right away (if that’s what they choose).

With this degree, students will likely have opportunities in many different settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Private labs
• Instrument manufacturers
• Research labs

Career options may include:

• Laboratory manager
• Laboratory technician
• Regulatory consultant
• Research assistant
• Sales representative
• Technical support manager
• Scientific writer or editor

Not ready to get a job right away? Some students decide to go to graduate school in biology, forensics, or another science-related field. Other students choose to go to a professional school such as medical school, dental school, or veterinary school.

Who will I learn from?

In a hands-on field, it’s essential to have teachers and mentors who will take the time and work closely with students—which is who students will find at UB. In fact, UB faculty members have received numerous awards for their teaching results and expertise, including the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.

In addition, UB faculty members have been recognized and honored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Society for Neuroscience, American Neurological Association, and Genetic Toxicology Association, among other organizations. They also typically hold memberships and fellowships in many leading professional organizations, including the Association of Clinical Scientists, American Society for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, and American Association for Clinical Chemistry.