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Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science

Department of Environmental & Public Health, Administration & Medical Sciences

College of Health Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science

Department of Environmental & Public Health, Administration & Medical Sciences

College of Health Sciences

On-Campus

Program

120 Credit Hours

to Graduate

Full-Time, In-State Tutition

$5,010 Per Semester

Free Books

for All Students

Solve Healthcare Puzzles Through Hands-On Work

Aid in the diagnosis of disease and management of health

Make your mark in healthcare by combining science and problem-solving in a hands-on career that will greatly impact patient well-being. With EKU’s NAACLS-accredited bachelor’s in medical laboratory science, you’ll prepare for a career of independent clinical laboratory work with minimal patient contact. You’ll learn the essential techniques to collect and process specimens, perform a range of analytical procedures and quality control, and report test results. Gain a unique scientific background that can provide a variety of career opportunities.

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Career Outlook


According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical laboratory scientists (formerly known as clinical lab technologists) is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from now until 2032. Likewise, the Bureau of Health Workforce of the U.S. Health Department projects a substantial increase in demand/growth for medical or clinical laboratory scientists between now and 2030.

– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

The unique scientific education that medical and clinical laboratory scientists receive provides near endless career opportunities. Graduates have an excellent background for career advancement and often find jobs in a variety of areas.

Job Titles Include:

  • Hospitals, clinics, and reference laboratories
  • Specialty areas of the laboratory such as microbiology, hematology, chemistry, blood bank, toxicology, and more
  • Sales representative in lab industries
  • Academic medical centers/research
  • Laboratory information systems
  • Colleges and universities
  • Veterinary laboratories
  • Public Health and forensic laboratories

In addition to working in hospitals, clinics, and medical offices, some of our graduates have worked with the armed forces, served as travel clinical scientists, and worked in biomedical companies and public health.

The Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all your career and professional development needs.

Services Include:

  • Creating/updating your resume and cover letter
  • Interviewing tips and coaching
  • Career documents review
  • Job search

Why EKU?

  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • No application fee
  • Reduced tuition for active-duty military members and their spouses
  • Fast-track opportunities for students with 80 or more credit hours
  • Generous credit transfer policy
  • 100% placement/employment rate
  • Nationally accredited program
  • Complete a 16-week practicum rotation in a hospital laboratory to gain professional experience
  • MLS graduates have an excellent background for career advancement in medicine, physician associates or pathology assistants, public health, marketing, and research

Curriculum & Enrollment


EKU’s medical laboratory science curriculum prepares students for a variety of rewarding career options as well as graduate and professional school programs. Bachelor of medical laboratory science courses include clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, serology, and analysis of body fluids.

A minimum of 120 credits are required to graduate, including 42 upper-division credits.

View the degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

Students may transfer up to 90 hours of credit from accredited institutions. Please note that a minimum of 30 credit hours in this degree program must be completed at Eastern Kentucky University.

Previously earned credits must be reviewed upon admission to EKU for appropriate articulation.

All applicants must provide an application and evidence of appropriate scholastic achievement through prior educational experience.

Please note that certain degree programs have special admission requirements. Admission to the University does not mean automatic admission to all degree programs.

The completed application and all required supporting documentation must be received by the University no later than:

• August 1 for fall enrollment
• December 1 for spring enrollment
• May 1 for summer enrollment

To apply for undergraduate admission to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), submit an application at apply.eku.edu and submit your materials noted below electronically or by mail to:

Office of Admissions
Eastern Kentucky University
Whitlock Bldg. 112, CPO 54
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, KY 40475-3154.

NOTE: Admission as a major in the Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) program is open to all students who meet the general requirements for admission to EKU. During the first two years at EKU students (or transfer students) should declare their major as “Pre-MLS”. Upon completion of university and department requirements, students must make a formal application to the Department of Medical Laboratory Science for admission into the Upper Division MLS program.

EKU MLS Program School Yearly Statistics

2022202320243 Years Average
Graduation100%100%100%100%
Graduate Placement Rates*100%100%100%100%
Graduate Certification Pass Rates**80%100%92%90%

*Defined by NAACLS as those who found employment or continued education within one year of graduation.

**Defined by NAACLS as those who passed the BOC exam within one year of graduation. Data is updated on regular basis

EKU MLS program is accredited by National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS)

NAACLS 5600 N. River Rd, Suite 720 Rosemont IL 60018-5119; ph: 773.714.8880; fx: 773.714.8886; info@naacls.org

Enrolling & Advising Information


EKU’s College of Health Sciences is committed to delivering high-quality enrollment and academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience.

Interested in enrolling? Reach out to our college enrollment counselor today.

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Gabriella Thurman

College Enrollment Counselor


gabrielle.thurman@eku.edu

For on-campus program information contact Kristin Crawford Bragg, Marina Prewitt, Gabby Thurman, or Natalie Web.

Student Stories & Features


EKU student Ronnie "Travis" Cook in a suit and smiling.

Ronnie “Travis” Cook

EKU Health Care Administration Student
If you are someone who is thinking of furthering your education, and need the flexibility of working online, EKU Online is a great way to continue your education. Everyone has been very helpful and the courses are challenging, but in good way.
photo of Matthew Quansah

Matthew Quansah

EKU Environmental Health Science & Sustainability Student
Attending EKU has truly been a game-changer for me. The supportive faculty and staff have helped me discover my passions and strengths, leading me to pursue a major that I am truly passionate about. The opportunities for hands-on learning experiences and internships have allowed me to gain real-world skills and make valuable connections in my field.

Elizabeth Carter

EKU Environmental Health Science & Sustainability Student
The alumni in the EHS program are amazing! I was able to connect with an alumni who works for Seagate Technology in Longmont, CO. Through her, I was able to get an internship with the company which has lasted for a year now. I’m so lucky to be able to continue working with Seagate post graduation as well. My EHS staff are also the BEST people ever! Every single one of them is so passionate about the field and strive everyday to help us succeed.

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Contact Information

Department of Environmental & Public Health, Administration, and Medical Sciences

521 Lancaster Ave.
Dizney Building, Room 220
Richmond, Kentucky 40475

859-622-3078
Fax: 859-622-1939
ehss@eku.edu
bsph@eku.edu
mph@eku.edu