MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

The Oakland University Medical Laboratory Science Program prepares students for entry-level practice in medical laboratory science by developing their technical competence, professional integrity and ability to support patient care through accurate testing, communication and collaboration.

The Oakland University Medical Laboratory Science program aims to:

1. Prepare graduates to perform accurate, efficient and high-quality laboratory testing across pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical phases of the clinical diagnostic process.
2. Cultivate students’ ability to interpret, troubleshoot and communicate laboratory data to support clinical decision-making and patient care.
3. Instill ethical and professional standards, including respect for confidentiality, cultural diversity and interprofessional collaboration.
4. Promote commitment to continuous professional development and adaptability within an evolving health care environment.
5. Provide foundational knowledge in laboratory operations, quality improvement and education methodology to support leadership and workforce development in the clinical laboratory field.

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate entry-level competence across pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical testing in the clinical laboratory.
2. Apply problem-solving and critical thinking skills to interpret laboratory results and resolve technical or analytical issues.
3. Follow safety practices and comply with regulatory and accreditation standards in the clinical laboratory environment.
4. Exhibit professional behavior, integrity and accountability in all aspects of laboratory practice.
5. Communicate effectively with health care professionals and other appropriate stakeholders regarding laboratory procedures and results.
6. Contribute to the education of others through peer instruction and demonstrate readiness for lifelong learning and professional growth.
7. Apply principles of laboratory operations including quality assurance, resource management, process improvement and leadership.

Transfer students should visit the Registrar’s website to review transfer policies and access the required forms. This information explains how courses completed at other colleges or universities may be applied toward Oakland University’s general education requirements. Students planning to transfer should also complete a transfer course review form to determine how their prior coursework will transfer.

The Medical Laboratory Science program has applied for accreditation through the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). We anticipate achieving Serious Applicant Status by Summer 2026.

Oakland University, as an equal opportunity institution, is committed to compliance with federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It is the policy of Oakland University that there shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, height, weight, disability, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, marital status, familial status, veteran status or other protected categories in employment, admissions, educational programs or activities. Inquiries may be addressed to Oakland University, Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Oakland Center, Suite 150, 312 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, Michigan 48309-4454; phone: (248) 370-3496.

The refund policy for the Medical Laboratory Science program follows the university refund policy located in the university catalog. Students are eligible for a full refund of tuition within two weeks of the first day of the semester. Late payments are assessed a penalty as described in the university catalog. All university tuition policies apply to the Medical Laboratory Science program. For more information, visit the Tuition and Refund Policy.

Students may apply for the Medical Laboratory program after completing the prerequisite courses. Application is made during the winter semester of Year 3 to be accepted into Year 4 and the clinical internship.

Currently, the program can accept up to 22 students; this may vary based on clinical site availability. Acceptance into the program is competitive and based on prerequisite GPA, personal interview, letters of recommendation and score on the Medical Terminology quiz administered to interviewed candidates. Desirable candidates possess qualities and abilities in communication, computer literacy, leadership, multitasking, problem solving and critical thinking. Work and volunteer experience, and active participation in organized extracurricular activities are also considered in the admissions process.

When applying to this program, all students must complete a graduation audit with our SHS academic adviser.

1. Applications are accepted from February 1 to April 30 each year. These applicants are for the class beginning the following fall semester.
2. A completed application must include:
   1. Completed Application form
   2. Two (2) academic letters of recommendation (one must be from a laboratory course instructor)
   3. Pre-graduation audit (completed with the MLS School of Health Sciences adviser)
      
      *All grades from other institutions must be transferred to OU and are required for acceptance.  Pre-graduation audits are required by the application deadline.
      
      
3. Applicants accepted for interviews will be contacted by May 6.
4. Interviews will be completed by May 15 (approximate).
5. Selection is based upon:
   1. Successful completion of prerequisite courses with at least minimum grade met:
      • BIO1200, BIO2100, BIO2101, BIO2600, CHM1440, CHM1450, CHM1470, CHM1480, STA2220, CDS2100, CDS2250, CDS4230, CDS4250, CDS4300, CDS4310, CDS 4100, CDS4110
   2. Prerequisite courses must be taken within the past six years
   3. No more than two repeats or withdrawals in prerequisite courses preferred
   4. Minimum overall GPA 2.7
   5. Letters of Recommendation
   6. Interview scores
   7. Score on Medical Terminology quiz (administered to interviewed candidates)
   8. Optional - work / volunteer experience, extra-curricular activities
6. The Admissions Committee will make final determination of candidate’s status.
7. Applicants will be notified of their status by May 30.
8. Late applications may be accepted if the class is not filled.
9. Based on course availability, requirements may be completed during the Summer semester prior to program start date in Fall semester; however, applicants may not be considered if they have more than two incomplete prerequisite courses by the end of the Winter semester prior to program start date.

The Admissions Committee is responsible for reviewing application and interview materials, and selecting students for the program. Selection is competitive and the number of applicants varies from year to year.

If accepted, the student will be required to successfully provide the following at their own expense prior to the clinical internship, as required by our affiliated clinical sites:

• Criminal background and sexual offender check, as directed by the clinical site.>
• Physical exam (including drug screen, urinalysis, blood testing, etc.).
• Immunization records or titer results demonstrating immunity for each of the following: Tdap, rubeola (measles), mumps, rubella, pertussis, varicella zoster, hepatitis B, annual flu vaccine, and TB test.
• Students enrolled in the program must document personal health care insurance coverage throughout the entire Medical Laboratory Science program.

Further program information is available upon acceptance.

Essential functions reflect the non-academic requirements necessary for students to fully engage in the Medical Laboratory Science program and in professional practice. Students are expected to meet these functions, with or without reasonable accommodations, in order to progress through and complete program requirements.

1. Manual Dexterity
   • Demonstrate fine and gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination necessary to perform diagnostic procedures safely and accurately. This includes phlebotomy, handling chemicals and specimens, working with microbiology cultures, operating laboratory instruments and equipment, and using computers.
2. Vision
   • Distinguish colors and their variations, and assess clarity and viscosity of specimens, reagents and chemical reaction products
   • Observe and interpret microscopic specimens, including subtle differences in color, shape and structure
   • Accurately read printed, handwritten and digital text, numbers and graphical data
   • Perceive depth, distance and two- or three-dimensional spatial relationships
3. Physical, Mental and Emotional Health
   • Sustain performance during an 8-hour work shift in a high-stress environment
   • Recognize and respond appropriately to emergency situations
   • Navigate hospital and laboratory spaces safely and efficiently
   • Hear verbal instructions with or without assistive devices
   • Bend, stoop and stand as needed; lift up to 20 pounds; maintain prolonged sitting or standing; perform repetitive motions; grasp with one or both hands; and reach surfaces and patients in a variety of settings
   • Maintain focus and attention despite distractions
4. Behavioral Standards
   • Work independently and adapt flexibly to changes in the environment or workload
   • Safely handle sharp instruments, hazardous chemicals and biohazardous/infectious materials
   • Recognize potential hazards and respond in ways that minimize risk to oneself, patients and others
   • Demonstrate honesty, empathy, ethical conduct and accountability
   • Collaborate effectively with peers and interdisciplinary teams in all aspects of learning and patient care
5. Intellectual and Critical Thinking
   • Perform complex laboratory tests, troubleshoot issues and apply sound judgment
   • Identify and correct deviations in testing performance and procedures
   • Make informed decisions under pressure and resolve problems efficiently
   • Prioritize tasks effectively and produce accurate results within time constraints
6. Communication Skills
   • Use English as the primary language for all forms of communication
   • Follow verbal, non-verbal and written instructions accurately
   • Communicate clearly in both spoken and written forms
   • Deliver oral presentations to diverse audiences
   • Comprehend and use technical materials, including texts, numerical data, graphs, scientific journals, manuals and online resources
   • Write papers, reports and create presentations individually or collaboratively at the post-secondary level
   • Complete written, oral, computer-based and hands-on practical assessments within set time limits
   • Communicate respectfully and confidentially with laboratory staff, health care providers and patients of varying ages, backgrounds and conditions
   • Effectively use computers, educational technology and the internet for coursework and professional communication

References:

• Technical Performance Standards/Essential Functions for MTIMPM Hospital-Based Clinical Practicum Programs, 06/2018
• ASCLS Essential Functions, 2012–2016

Application deadline: April 30
Interviews completed: May 15 (approx.)
Admissions Committee meeting: third week of May
Accepted students are notified: last week of May
Mandatory program orientation: early to Mid-August
Student health forms are due: two months prior to start of clinical internship

Fall Year I (14 credits)

BIO 1200: Biology I (4 credits)

CDS 2010: Careers in CDS (1 credit)

CHM 1440: General Chemistry I (4 credits)

CHM 1470: General Chemistry Laboratory I (1 credit)

Gen Ed: Western Civilization Gen Ed Course (4 credits)

Winter Year I (14 credits)

BIO 2100: Human Anatomy (4)

BIO 2101: Human Anatomy Laboratory (1)

CHM 1450: General Chemistry II (4)

CHM 1480: General Chemistry Laboratory II (1)

Fall Year II (16 credits)

BIO 2600: Human Physiology (4)

CDS 2070: Health Care Systems Around the World (3)

CDS 2100: Medical Terminology (1)

PHY 1010: General Physics I (4)

Gen Ed: Arts General Education Course (4)

Winter Year II (14 credits)

CDS 2250: Clinical Laboratory Theory and Techniques (2)

CHM 2340: Organic Chemistry (4)

PHY 1020: General Physics II (4)

STA 2220: Intro to Statistical Concepts and Reasoning (4) or STA 2222: Statistical Methods for Biology (4) OR STA 2226: Applied Probability and Statistics (4)

Fall Year III (15 credits)

CDS 4230: Medical Immunology (3)

CDS 4250: Medical Biochemistry (4)

Gen Ed: Language and Culture Gen Ed (4)

Gen Ed: Social Science Gen Ed (SOC 1000, US DIV, or PSY 1000 recommended)

Winter Year III (13 credits)

CDS 4100: Clinical Hematology (3)

CDS 4110: Clinical Hematology Laboratory (1)

CDS 4300: Clinical Microbiology (4)

CDS 4310: Clinical Microbiology Laboratory (1)

Gen Ed: Literature Gen Ed (4)

February-April of Year III: Apply to Year IV

May of Year III: Applicants interview

Begin of Professional Year:

Fall Year IV (13 credits)

CDS 4200: Advanced Concepts in Hematology (2)

CDS 4210: Clinical Hemostasis (2)

CDS 4240: Immunohematology (3)

CDS 4241: Immunohematology Laboratory (1)

CDS 4270: Clinical Chemistry (4)

CDS 4280: Clinical Chemistry Laboratory (1)

Winter Year IV (14 credits)

CDS 4340: Molecular Diagnostics (2)

CDS 4330: Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory (1)

CDS 4400: Clinical Correlations (3)

CDS 4350: Clinical Parasitology, Mycology, Virology (3)

CDS 4360: Clinical Parasitology, Mycology, Virology Laboratory (1)

CDS 4290: Urinalysis and Body Fluids (1)

CDS 4800: Laboratory Management (3)

Summer Year IV (12 credits)

MLS 4810: Immunohematology Practicum (3)

MLS 4820: Clinical Chemistry Practicum (3)

MLS 4830: Clinical Microbiology Practicum (3)

MLS 4840: Hematology Practicum (3)

Total for Degree: 125 Credits

The Oakland University Medical Laboratory Science Program uses a combination of traditional face-to-face in person instruction and virtual, hybrid learning. The majority of our courses are traditional, but several courses are scheduled as asynchronous online and/or hybrid formats. All students must complete courses as scheduled.

Students accepted into Year 4 are guaranteed a placement in a clinical internship. However, assignment to specific sites is determined by availability. While student preferences will be considered, preferred locations cannot be guaranteed. The MLS program will not be responsible if a student declines an assigned site, which would prevent completion of the internship requirement. Successful completion of the clinical internship is a mandatory requirement for graduation with the Medical Laboratory Science degree.

The Oakland University Medical Laboratory Science program is affiliated with healthcare systems in Michigan. A full list is included below under “Clinical Sites.” Additional clinical sites may be added. Students spend time in a variety of departments within the clinical pathology area of these locations. Students are required to have their own transportation to and from the clinical sites. Students are also expected to complete rotations on a variety of shifts (start and end times vary). Clinical schedules are determined by the Medical Laboratory Science clinical coordinator or program director prior to the start of each semester, and are subject to change when necessary. The start date of the clinical rotation may not coincide with the start date of the university academic semester.

Clinical rotations include, but are not limited to: clinical microbiology, clinical hematology and coagulation, clinical chemistry, STAT lab, immunology / serology, urinalysis / body fluids, and immunohematology. Specialty areas may include molecular diagnostics, next-generation sequencing, HLA, point-of-care, and others. Certain components of the clinical experience may take place in simulation laboratories at Oakland University. Additional details will be provided upon acceptance into the program.

Students who successfully complete the entire degree program including the internship are eligible to sit for one of two national certification exams: ASCP BOC* or AMT MLS.

*Pending ASCP accreditation

Trinity Health Oakland Hospital, Pontiac, MI
Trinity Health Livonia Hospital, Livonia, MI
Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI
Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, Wyandotte, MI
Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, Clinton Township, MI
Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, Jackson, MI
Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, West Bloomfield, MI
Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI
LabCorp, Detroit, MI
Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI
Corewell Health Beaumont Troy, Troy, MI
Lake Huron Medical Center, Port Huron, MI
Garden City Hospital, Garden City, MI
Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo, MI

Tuition rates are adjusted each year by Oakland University. Tuition is assessed based on the number of credit hours taken each semester. Current tuition information may be found at Student Financial Services. Please be aware of the differential tuition rates specific to the School of Health Sciences.

Other costs:

• Specific textbooks are required for each course. Students should expect to spend approximately $700* for program required textbooks. (*cost as of September 2025)
• Students are required to purchase scrub-type uniforms for participation in clinicals. A pair of standard scrubs and shoes will cost approximately $250.
• Students are required to carry personal health care insurance for the duration of the program.
• Screening: health, vaccinations, drug and background checks.
• MLS professional organization student membership fee: approximately $35

The Medical Laboratory Science program follows the established calendar for Oakland University. The program does not require class nor clinicals on observed school holidays and breaks. For Oakland University academic calendar, visit Oakland University Calendar. The program begins in the fall semester each year. Students graduate after completion of the program and completion of all University requirements.

Each course has a minimum grade requirement found in the course syllabus.

Grade	Percentage	Honor Points
A	94.00%-100.00%	4.0
A-	90.00%-93.99%	3.7
B+	86.00%-89.99%	3.3
B	80.00%-85.99%	3.0
B-	77.00%-79.99%	2.7
C+	73.00%-76.99%	2.3
C	70.00%-72.99%	2.0
C-	67.00%-69.99%	1.7
D+	63.00%-66.99%	1.3
D	60.00%-62.99%	1.0
F	00.00%-59.99%	0.0

The following requirements must be completed:

1. Satisfactory completion of all courses in the program.
2. Satisfactory completion of all clinical competency requirements.
3. Minimum 2.7 cumulative GPA.
4. Completion of all Oakland University degree requirements.

• enjoy solving puzzles and problems
• excel in handling multiple tasks
• enjoy a fast-paced and challenging work environment
• enjoy hands-on science
• want to find a science-based degree that prepares you for advanced studies in science or applied sciences such as medical school
• want a career that develops skills and provides experience to be used in a variety of employment settings