Program Overview

---

Master's in Medical Laboratory Science

The Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science is a flexible, online program designed for working professionals in the field. This program allows students to advance their careers and gain experience while continuing to work.

Program Details

• Program type: Master's Degree
• Format: Online
• Estimated time to complete: 1.5 - 2 years (full-time); 2.5 - 3 years (part-time)
• Credit hours: 33

Why Earn an Online Master's in Medical Laboratory Science?

The demand for skilled medical laboratory scientists is growing, and a master's degree in Medical Laboratory Science can position individuals for advanced career opportunities, leadership roles, and higher earning potential. The University of North Dakota's (UND) program combines flexible online coursework with industry-focused content to help students achieve their goals.

Program Structure

• Foundation courses aim to build skills in communication, leadership, professional advocacy, research, and problem-solving.
• Core courses address the scientific content/theory related to the major testing areas in the medical laboratory.
• Elective courses allow students to customize their graduate degree plans in specialized areas such as education and management.

Why Choose UND's Online MLS Master's Program?

• UND's M.S. in MLS program enrolls working MLS professionals from across the nation.
• Admission to the program is on a competitive basis.
• Students work one-on-one with an advisor to develop a personalized program of study.
• The program offers opportunities to network and engage with other laboratory professionals.
• A Master of Science degree in MLS offers elective courses in education, management, leadership.

Skills Developed

Through UND's online master's in Medical Laboratory Science program, students gain practical, career-advancing skills in:

Professional Communication

• Develop effective written and oral communication skills through projects related to their interests.
• Write professional reports, case studies, research papers, and compliance documentation.

Leadership

• Discover different techniques and styles for leading diverse teams in roles such as laboratory manager, lead technologist, education coordinator, and program director.
• Develop and apply problem-solving strategies to address evolving issues in healthcare and education.

Advanced Expertise

• Gain a deeper understanding of core laboratory science subjects, including emerging techniques and hot topics in each discipline.
• Customize their program of study to meet their goals by taking elective courses in laboratory management or laboratory education.

Professional Advocacy

• Develop skills and identify opportunities to educate others about medical laboratory science.
• Learn to self-advocate for professional development and career advancement.

Research and Scholarship

• Analyze and research important topics to answer questions related to pressing laboratory issues.
• Contribute to the medical laboratory science body of knowledge by disseminating their scholarly work.

Career Opportunities

Earning a master's in Medical Laboratory Science opens doors to advanced roles in healthcare, education, research, and beyond. Some potential career paths include:

• Medical laboratory managers and supervisors
• Lead medical technologists
• Quality assurance specialists
• Clinical laboratory consultants
• Medical lab scientist educators

Industries Where You Can Work

Graduates can work in numerous industries, including:

• Military
• Colleges and universities
• Forensic and reference laboratories
• Government agencies
• Hospital, clinic, physician's office, forensic or reference laboratories
• Research and industry

Courses

Some of the courses offered in the program include:

• Advanced Clinical Immunology
• Advanced Laboratory Practice: Financial Management
• Advanced Molecular Diagnostics
• Current Trends and Issues in Medical Laboratory Science
• Medical Laboratory Education: Assessment and Accreditation
• Professional Communication in the Medical Laboratory

Flexible Online MLS Program

The master's degree in Medical Laboratory Science is offered 100% online, with no campus visits required. The program features flexible scheduling, allowing students to choose the number of online courses they take each semester. Faculty advisors help students customize a course plan that accommodates their needs while facilitating timely graduation.

Online Classes

• Asynchronous classes: Students do not attend class at a set time and can learn online through lesson modules, streaming video content, virtual libraries, posted lectures, and online simulations.
• Synchronous classes: Held in real-time, these classes allow for active discussion and immediate feedback through live interaction.

Affordable Online Master's in Laboratory Science

UND offers the same affordable online tuition rate regardless of legal residency. The program is designed to provide a high-quality education at an affordable cost, making it one of the best values in the country.

What UND MLS Graduates Say

Graduates of the program have praised its flexibility, curriculum, and faculty, stating that it has prepared them for advanced roles in healthcare, education, and research.

FAQs

Can I apply for a master's in Medical Laboratory Science with a different undergraduate degree?

Yes, a B.A. or B.S. degree is a prerequisite for the Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science program, and there is no restriction on the specific field.

Do I need national laboratory certification for admission to this program?

Yes, completion of an MLS/CLS/MT certification examination is required as part of the prerequisites for the program.

Can I earn my master's degree while working full-time?

Yes, the online master's program is tailored for full-time working professionals in the laboratory field, offering flexible scheduling and assistance from faculty and staff to create a personalized course plan.