Medical Laboratory Science

Trent Lesikar

Are you a problem solver? Do you enjoy investigative research? Are you interested in a health-related field of research and laboratory work? Would you like to work with other health care professionals in an exciting, ever-changing high-tech environment?

This specialized degree prepares students for a career in Medical Laboratory Science (previously called Clinical Laboratory Science and Medical Technicians). A degree in MLS provides students with specific training in biology and chemistry, including courses in microbiology, immunology, organic chemistry, and biochemistry.

MLS students take 3 years of coursework at UT and complete their final year off-campus at one of four affiliated programs. Students must apply for admission and be accepted to one of these programs. While CNS does not provide guaranteed placement for a program, students work closely with a Faculty Advisor and an Academic Advisor during the application process and most students successfully graduate with their clinical training, bachelor’s degree, and ASCP certification. The four affiliated MLS programs are accredited by the National Agency for Medical Laboratory Science (NAACLS). Upon successful completion of the training program and approval of the faculty advisor, the student is awarded the degree and is eligible for national certifying examination.

Medical Laboratory Scientists must enjoy laboratory work and problem solving, possess a capacity for calm and reasoned judgment, and demonstrate a commitment to patients and respect for the confidentiality of patient's records and diagnoses. They test body fluids, culture materials, and cellular specimens for their biochemical, hematological, immunological, microbial, and histochemical components using a variety of technical procedures and complex instruments.

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Prospective University of Texas at Austin students should visit UT Admissions to learn about the application process and how to declare a major.

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Step 1: Internal transfer students must apply to the College of Natural Sciences prior to completing 60 hours or four long semesters at UT. Applications are due to the College of Natural Sciences in the spring. Learn more about the college's internal transfer requirements.

Step 2: Once accepted into the College of Natural Sciences, all students will start as entry-level medical laboratory science majors until they successfully complete the entry-level requirements.

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For information on required courses, students can view the Medical Laboratory Science degree plan. For additional information, view course descriptions or contact the Bioscience Advising Center.