Medical Laboratory Science

Contact Information

Website: www.uis.edu/medical-lab-science
Email: mls@uis.edu
Office Phone: (217) 206-8651
Office Location: SLB 16

Bachelor of Science - (MLS) - Medical Laboratory Science
- Pre-Medical Concentration
- Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) - Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Articulation

Accreditation

The UIS MLS Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS), 5600 N. River Rd., Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018 (773) 714-8880. The MLS program’s current full ten-year accreditation is the result of two consecutive accreditation cycles with no deficiencies.

Upon completion of a NAACLS approved laboratory education route, an individual may sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC) MLS professional certification examination. Graduates of the MLS Program at UIS are eligible to sit for the ASCP BOC examination via Route 1.

Honors in Medical Laboratory Science (Department Honors)

MLS majors with a cumulative GPA equal to or greater than 3.25 in the MLS Program and one semester in residency at UIS may elect to participate in the MLS honors option. In addition to the MLS Program requirements, honors students must:

Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.
Earn a minimum grade of B- for each course in the MLS Program.
Successfully complete three credits of MLS 400.
Present their findings in a formal paper and public presentation .

Students must apply for participation in the honors program to the MLS Program Director and HCS Chair and obtain approval of a faculty research advisor prior to their final semester. This is not connected with the CAP Honors Program. Details can be found in the MLS Student Handbook

Program Background

A Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) provides exciting opportunities for individuals with an interest in science who wish to pursue a career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist. An MLS education also provides excellent preparation for medical and graduate schools or employment opportunities outside of a typical hospital setting. MLS graduates have gone on to medical school; law school; and physician assistant, pathologist assistant, and public health programs. Diverse job opportunities include employment in medical laboratories, research laboratories, forensic science laboratories, veterinary laboratories, fertility centers, higher education, healthcare information technology, and consulting. In the past three years, 100% of UIS MLS graduates who sought employment have found employment in the field/closely related field or have pursued further education within one year of graduation.

Medical Laboratory Scientists play an integral role in the interdisciplinary spectrum of healthcare by: performing and interpreting a wide array of testing; investigating and correcting incidences of patient misidentification; researching and developing evidence-based testing algorithms; selecting and implementing new testing platforms; and validating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation. Medical Laboratory Scientists serve as a valuable resource for the diverse healthcare workforce by providing guidance in the collection, selection, and interpretation of laboratory testing. Medical laboratory professionals must evolve continuously in the unpredictable and innovative healthcare atmosphere; carrying on rigorous continuing education programs throughout their careers.

Medical Laboratory Science has experienced several nomenclature changes throughout the history of the profession; beginning with Medical Technology (MT), then on to Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS), and finally, an amalgamation of the two, Medical Laboratory Science (MLS). For this reason, the professional laboratory environment is occupied by a workforce exhibiting all three certification terminologies (i.e. MT, CLS, MLS); though, each reflects the same level of laboratory education. To appropriately reflect current professional certification nomenclature, the Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Program at UIS recently changed its name from Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS).

Program Features/Requirements

The MLS major consists of two distinct academic phases: the pre-professional phase and the professional phase. During the pre-professional phase, the first two years of the four-year major, students complete UIS general education requirements and MLS prerequisites. During the professional phase, the final two years of the four-year major, students complete the MLS core courses and obtain clinical experience during practicum courses. The professional phase is the NAACLS-accredited Medical Laboratory Science program. All students must complete a secondary admissions process and be accepted by the MLS Program before they may begin the professional phase. See the MLS website for application information.

According to NAACLS curriculum requirements, the UIS MLS Program includes didactic and laboratory coverage of: Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Hemostasis, Immunology, Immunohematology, Microbiology, Urine and Body Fluid Analysis, and Laboratory Operations. Due to content distribution and complexity, Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Immunohematology, and Microbiology are considered major content areas while Hemostasis, Immunology, Urine and Body Fluid Analysis, and Laboratory Operations are considered minor content areas. Additional MLS Program content areas not required by NAACLS but relevant and necessary for professional preparation include: Phlebotomy, Molecular Diagnostics, Education, and Management.

During the first year of the professional phase, students complete on-campus didactic and laboratory course work. After successful completion of all first-year course work, students rotate through clinical practicum courses in each of the four major content areas. Additionally, students complete a Special Topics practicum course in which they experience minor or highly specialized laboratory areas. Over the course of an academic year, students rotate through two separate clinical affiliate sites; completing two major practicum content areas per site. This allows students the opportunity to see a variety of laboratory and healthcare environments; serve diverse patient populations; and utilize several computer platforms. See the MLS Student Handbook for a current list of clinical affiliates. The program concludes with a two-part research and exam preparation capstone course series. Students must successfully pass a comprehensive closure exam to graduate from the MLS Program.

As required by the program’s clinical affiliates, prior to clinical practicum courses, all MLS students are required to submit to a background check and drug testing results. In the event that a student’s record includes a felony conviction, the program may not be able to secure clinical practicum spots. If clinical practicum spots are obtained, the student may not be able to be employed in healthcare.

The Bachelor's Degree

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) - Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Articulation

Pre-Medical Concentration

Advising

All students are encouraged to meet with the MLS Program Director or a MLS advisor before initial registration and periodically thereafter in order to plan their courses of study to ensure that all requirements are met in the minimum amount of time. There is no advance placement and no credits for experiential learning.

Students are advised to be familiar with the current MLS Student Handbook and ask a MLS advisor for help if they do not understand the MLS policies and procedures.

The transfer option provides for the continuing education of students who have completed the first two years (60 semester hours) of lower-division work (preferably with the A.A. or A.S. degree). The MLS program has two + two articulation agreements with several community colleges; however, transfer students from other two-year and four-year institutions are also encouraged to apply. See the MLS Program Director regarding questions about transfer of credits.

Students should consult with college advisors for specific guidance regarding completion of general education requirements. In MLS, the clinical practicum courses (MLS 487,MLS 488 ) fulfill the requirement for the ECCE Engagement Experience (six hours).

For best outcomes in the Program and on the national certification exam, part-time status is not recommended.

Grading Policy

Since the curriculum includes laboratory work done under professional supervision, the degree candidate must satisfy the customary expectations of academic work and must also meet the high-quality standards demanded of a professional medical laboratory scientist. Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 at UIS. Medical Laboratory Science students are required to maintain a programmatic GPA of 2.5 and must earn a grade of C- or better in all required courses.

Program Learning Outcomes

Perform laboratory tests accurately and efficiently, maintain and troubleshoot commonly used methods and automated instruments.
Demonstrate entry level competency necessary to perform the full range of clinical laboratory tests in Clinical Chemistry, Hematology/Hemostasis, Immunology, Immunohematology, Microbiology, Urine and Body Fluid Analysis, Laboratory Operations, and other emerging diagnostic areas.
Evaluate laboratory test results for correlation with clinical conditions, suggest additional testing, and resolve pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical problems.
Demonstrate competency in the principles and practices of clinical study design, implementation and dissemination of results in order to apply evidence-based research into clinical practice.
Apply ethical, safety, and governmental regulations and standards to the practice of medical laboratory science.
Communicate effectively and respectfully in order to serve the needs of patients, the public and members of the health care team from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Demonstrate administrative skills consistent with principles and practices of administration and supervision as applied to medical laboratory science, including quality management.
Exhibit principles and practices of professional conduct and demonstrate readiness to engage in life-long learning through continuing professional development, scholarship, service, and participation in professional organizations.
Demonstrate educational methodologies and terminology sufficient to train/educate users and providers of laboratory services.
Discuss research as a process of inquiry and critical thinking; identify and evaluate suitable sources; conduct searches strategically; use and communicate information appropriately; and recognize that information has value.

Requirements

MLS Course Requirements
MLS 415	Foundations in Medical Laboratory Science	2
MLS 425	Laboratory Operations	2
MLS 432	Hematology I	3
MLS 433	Medical Microbiology I	4
MLS 434	Clinical Chemistry I	4
MLS 442	Hematology II	4
MLS 443	Medical Microbiology II	3
MLS 444	Clinical Chemistry II	3
MLS 448	Introduction to Immunology	3
MLS 449	Introductory Immunology Lab	1
MLS 468	Immunohematology	4
MLS 475	Advanced Analysis in Laboratory Medicine	2
MLS 477	Molecular Diagnostics	2
MLS 487	ECCE: Practicum I	6
MLS 488	ECCE: Practicum II	6
MLS 496	Special Topics Practicum	3
MLS 497	Senior Seminar I	3
MLS 498	Senior Seminar II	3
Total Hours		58

EHS HDC Admissions
Degree Program	Program Type	Dept Application Materials and Admission Criteria	Prerequisite Course Requirements	Department ADM Review	Dept Conditional Admits	Dept Appeal Process
Medical Laboratory Science	BS	Pre-Professional Phase: No additional admission requirements beyond the general UIS criteria Professional Phase:* Completion of all MLS prerequisite courses with a minimum 2.5 GPA MLS Program application Written statement of academic and professional goals Contact information for three professional or academic references Essential functions affirmation form A personal interview may be required *Submit vaccination records (see MLS Student Handbook for vaccination requirements)	90 quarter hours or 60 semester hours of lower-division courses UIS gen ed requirements* CHE 141 General Chemistry I & CHE 142 General Chemistry II Organic Chemistry I with lab (CHE 267, CHE 268) or General Biochemistry with lab (CHE 485, CHE 476) BIO 141 General Biology I BIO 142 General Biology II or Applied Microbiology with lab (BIO 231, BIO 232) BIO 201 Basics Of Human Anatomy & Physiology I BIO 202 Basics of Human Anatomy & Physiology II MAT 121 Applied Statistics	N/A	Yes	N/A

Courses

MLS 115. Solving Medical Mysteries. 3 Hours.

This course is intended to answer commonly asked questions about human health and disease. An overview will briefly describe healthy human biology and function which will be contrasted with the abnormal functioning seen in major diseases. Actual clinical lab results will be presented in case stories that offer a glimpse into "what is going on inside" the diseased patient. Armed with this type of information, students can become more active and effective consumers within the healthcare system. Course Information: This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Life Science without a Lab.

MLS 131. Introduction to Forensic Science. 3 Hours.

Scientific basis of forensics investigations. Discusses basic procedures for investigation of crime scenes through deductive reasoning, case history/problem-solving approach. Topics: fingerprints, soil/imprints, toxicology, ballistics, blood/body fluid analysis, DNA fingerprints, PCR technology. Course Information: Same as CHE 131. This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Physical Science without a Lab. (IAI Code: P1903).

MLS 132. Introduction to Forensic Science Laboratory. 1 Hour.

Lab illustrates basic scientific procedures/analyses used in forensic science labs. Exercises: fingerprinting, hair/fiber analysis, soil/glass analysis, PCR/DNA profiling, toxicology, blood spatter analysis, field tests for blood, semen, drugs. Optional lab to be taken with MLS 131. Course Information: Same as CHE 132. This course, with MLS 131, fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Physical Science with a Lab. (IAI Code: P1903L).

MLS 225. Nutrition. 3 Hours.

Provides a foundation in the basic principles of human nutrition in maintaining and promoting health. Application of basic biological concepts such as cell function and heredity, as well as personal and societal applications of nutrition will enable students to make informed decisions. Course Information: This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Life Science without a Lab.

MLS 325. Evidence-Based Research Concepts. 3 Hours.

This course will focus on outlining the foundation of evidence-based practice in health sciences. The students will gain a basic understanding of principles in evidence-based practice and how to incorporate those principles into clinical practice. Course Information: Same as EXR 325.

MLS 331. Evidence-Based Inquiry. 2 Hours.

This course develops knowledge of evidence-based inquiry methods and their application in professional practice. Content includes: research methods, study design, evidence-based practice, and ethics in research.

MLS 341. Physiologic Processes. 3 Hours.

This course teaches the normal physiology, as well as selected diseases, of the human body at a level required for clinical medicine. Concepts are taught using a combination of lectures and exercises with case studies.

MLS 347. Medical Bacteriology. 4 Hours.

Concise overview of pathogenic bacteriology. Includes discussion of techniques for culturing and identifying bacteria and an introduction to epidemiology. Required of medical laboratory science students. Offered fall semester. Course Information: Same as BIO 347. Prerequisites: BIO 345 and BIO 346.

MLS 400. Applied Research. 1-4 Hours.

Directed research in procedure development or in-depth investigation of a specific area in medical laboratory science. Topic approved and hours assigned by instructor. Written report required. Course Information: May be repeated to a maximum of 4 hours.

MLS 415. Foundations in Medical Laboratory Science. 2 Hours.

An introduction to the MLS program and career. Laboratory practice is discussed to include preanalytical, analytical and postanalytical factors. Professionalism, ethics, professional development and education are discussed. Introduction to research and critique of scientific literature are included.

MLS 425. Laboratory Operations. 2 Hours.

This is an introductory course for basic laboratory operations necessary for Medical Laboratory Science (MLS). This is a lecture/laboratory course that will focus on lab skills as well as general laboratory knowledge. Emphasis will be placed on laboratory skills such as pipetting and phlebotomy. Students will learn to use math skills to solve problems in laboratory science, to include the design and analysis of QC charts.

MLS 432. Hematology I. 3 Hours.

Course emphasizes basic hematologic and hemostasis principles. Manual and semi-automated procedures are performed. Basic morphology and routine procedures are introduced. Case studies involving normal and abnormal clinical applications are discussed.

MLS 433. Medical Microbiology I. 4 Hours.

Concise overview of pathogenic bacteriology, focusing on human disease. Includes discussion of techniques for culturing and identifying bacteria and an introduction to epidemiology. Course Information: Prerequisites: BIO 141.

MLS 434. Clinical Chemistry I. 4 Hours.

Lecture/laboratory course focusing on clinical significance and methodology of measurement of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, enzymes, electrolytes, and other important clinical chemistry analytes in blood and urine. Focus on function and pathology of all major organs in the human body. Special emphasis on quality control and its use in the clinical chemistry laboratory. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 425.

MLS 442. Hematology II. 4 Hours.

Course focusing on advanced principles of hematologic testing leading to improved interpretive skills in hematology. Emphasis on morphology and correlation of data with disease states and disorders. Case studies and discussion used to illustrate the pathophysiology of hematological disorders. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 432.

MLS 443. Medical Microbiology II. 3 Hours.

The 2nd course in the Medical Microbiology series includes more intensive study of Medical Microbiology, specific evaluation of human pathogenic bacteriology, and evaluation of mixed cultures. This course will study the taxonomy, morphology, and pathogenesis of human microbes including bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses, including practical application of diagnostic laboratory procedures. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 433.

MLS 444. Clinical Chemistry II. 3 Hours.

Lecture course focusing on clinical significance and methodology of measurement of important clinical chemistry analytes. Focus on function and pathology of select major organs in the human body. Special emphasis on case studies with critical thinking to interpret the case studies. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 434.

MLS 448. Introduction to Immunology. 3 Hours.

Immunologic principles, concepts, and techniques will be discussed, including components of the immune system, cellular and humoral immune response, and antigen-antibody reactions. Human diseases related to compromised immunity will be introduced. Course Information: Same as BIO 448. Prerequisites: BIO 141 or equivalent.

MLS 449. Introductory Immunology Lab. 1 Hour.

Basic immunology and serology procedures with emphasis on medical laboratory diagnostic procedures. Course Information: Same as BIO 449. Prerequisites: BIO 141 or equivalent, MLS 448 or concurrent.

MLS 468. Immunohematology. 4 Hours.

Lecture/laboratory course emphasizing concepts, properties and scientific principles of Immunohematology. Includes theory and practical applications of: blood-group systems; antibody identification; compatibility testing; hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn; donor evaluation and processing; blood component preparation and therapy; and quality assurance in the blood bank/transfusion service. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 449 or equivalent.

MLS 471. Emerging Diseases. 3,4 Hours.

Examines the global emergence of previously unknown or re-emergent infectious diseases. Historical and current diseases will be discussed by integrating the perspectives of medical science and public health in contexts of social systems, economics, politics, and geography. Challenges and remedies in an interdependent but unequal world will be discussed. Course Information: Same as MPH 471.

MLS 475. Advanced Analysis in Laboratory Medicine. 2 Hours.

In this problem-based learning course, students will explore complex clinical case studies that span all Medical Laboratory Science disciplinary areas. The course culminates in a comprehensive, entry-level competency exam. The course must be completed in the semester immediately preceding enrollment in MLS Practicum courses. Instructor approval required.

MLS 477. Molecular Diagnostics. 2 Hours.

This course offers an introduction into the principles, utility, and diversity of molecular testing in the medical laboratory. Central concepts include: nucleic acid extraction, amplification and detection; mutations and polymorphisms; DNA sequencing; molecular microbiology; inherited disease; molecular oncology; pharmacogenetics; and quality assurance and control in the molecular diagnostic laboratory. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 444.

MLS 480. Topics in Medical Laboratory Science. 1-4 Hours.

Selected topics of interest in current Medical Laboratory Science. Topic(s) for a semester will be stated in the class schedule. Course may include laboratory. Course Information: Prerequisites: Dependent on topic. May be repeated if topics vary.

MLS 481. Education and Management. 2 Hours.

Explores how education and management of laboratory personnel can influence health care delivery in the United States. This course covers processes and practices of health care management, including personnel issues, financial issues, regulatory issues and educational principles.

MLS 487. ECCE: Practicum I. 6 Hours.

Encompasses clinical experiences integrated with theory, in a dynamic healthcare setting where students experience the collaborative nature of MLS and healthcare. Students work with MLS, performing tests to diagnose and treat patients. #1 of 2 courses to include 2 of 4 major areas of study. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS Senior. This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of Engagement Experience.

MLS 488. ECCE: Practicum II. 6 Hours.

Encompasses clinical experiences integrated with theory, in a dynamic healthcare setting where students experience the collaborative nature of MLS and healthcare. Students work with MLS, performing tests to diagnose and treat patients. #2 of 2 courses to include 2 of 4 major areas of study. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS Senior. This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of Engagement Experience.

MLS 496. Special Topics Practicum. 1-6 Hours.

Course is designed to provide MLS students an opportunity for directed research and/or observational experiences in alternative MLS practice areas. Students may also participate in service learning. Topics and sites must be approved and written reports are required. Course Information: May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours if topics vary. Prerequisites: MLS Senior.

MLS 497. Senior Seminar I. 3 Hours.

This is the first course in the two-part MLS senior capstone series. Content includes: the MLS senior research project, simulation exams, student-centered remediation planning, study plan development, case studies, and peer discussions of clinical learning experiences. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 331.

MLS 498. Senior Seminar II. 3 Hours.

This is the second course in the two-part MLS senior capstone series. Content includes: exam preparation (e.g. simulation exams, student-centered remediation planning, study plan development, student bowl practice, analytical exam content breakdown), case studies, and peer discussions of clinical learning experiences. Course Information: Prerequisites: MLS 497.

MLS 499. Tutorial. 1-4 Hours.

Intended to supplement, not supplant, regular course offerings. Students interested in a tutorial must secure the consent of the faculty member concerned before registration and submit any required documentation to him or her. Course Information: May be repeated to a maximum of 4 hours if topics vary.