Medical Laboratory Science Degree Program
Acquire the Skills to Evaluate Diseases
Medical laboratory science (MLS) is where basic laboratory science meets the practice of medicine. As a student of this Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science program at Grand Canyon University, you will be instructed on how to perform and interpret complex and essential clinical laboratory tests on blood, body fluids and tissue samples. These tests are vital tools for physicians in diagnosing, treating and preventing diseases.
If you enjoy studying the biological, chemical and physical sciences, and find personal satisfaction in applying scientific methods in the evaluation of disease, this degree may be right for you. Offered by the College of Natural Sciences at GCU, this journey in the field of medical laboratory science can provide you with the knowledge necessary to potentially serve as an essential healthcare detective, contributing to healthcare and making a meaningful impact on patient care.
Program Mission
GCU prepares graduates to become entry-level medical laboratory science (MLS) professionals who exhibit an innovative mindset that fosters creativity. This MLS program aims to produce active, respectful and caring partners in the healthcare field. These graduates support and demonstrate a diverse and ethical culture welcoming individuality, critical thinking, effective communication, collaboration and leadership while nurturing community and authenticity from a Christian perspective.
Pursuing NAACLS Accreditation
The medical laboratory science program at GCU is submitting the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) Initial Accreditation Application. Once the program has achieved “serious applicant” status, the students are eligible to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification exam. The program should reach serious applicant status in Fall 2025. Visit our College of Natural Sciences accreditation page for more information.
GCU is enrolling Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLTs) for Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 with no clinical placements required. You can complete this degree in 120 credits or use our transfer credit program which may help speed up your time to completion. Contact a university counselor to see how your associate degree and MLT eligibility or certification can fast-track you to the MLS.
If you're not an MLT and are looking to enroll in the MLS program, fill out the form on this page to speak to a university counselor for more information.
Explore the MLS Program
Medical lab scientists (also called clinical laboratory scientists or medical technologists) are typically drawn to the testing and studying of biological, chemical and physical sciences in efforts to assist in the treatment of diseases. By the end of the program, GCU faculty will have taught you the essential sciences to effectively perform your job duties.
For some patients, an accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment plan can mean the difference between life and death. Therefore, a strong foundation in clinical laboratory testing is critical for medical laboratory scientists to excel in their profession and contribute to patients’ well-being.
Course Topics and Curriculum
You will be taught the technical and didactic skills needed for clinical laboratory testing, as well as the ability to analyze ethical decisions through the lens of the Christian worldview. This unique perspective may allow you to approach your work with a holistic understanding of ethical considerations and contribute to the field of healthcare with a faith-based perspective.
The Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science degree curriculum is designed to cover a broad range of subjects, including, but not limited to, some of the following:
- Clinical chemistry
- Immunohematology (transfusion medicine)
- Microbiology
- Hematology and hemostasis
- Immunology
- Molecular diagnostics
- Laboratory operations
- Research
- Training methodologies
You will be taught how to correlate results with disease states and develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Within this program, you are required to gain off-campus clinical experience in laboratory settings under the supervision of experienced professionals.
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[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Online: $450 per credit
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Cost of Attendance
Earning your degree can prepare you for a career with a critical role in disease evaluation, monitoring treatment effectiveness and ensuring patient safety. As a clinical laboratory professional in this degree program, you will be taught how to utilize advanced biomedical instrumentation and technology, alongside expert manual techniques, to perform tasks that can prepare you for a variety of job prospects within many different settings, such as:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Research facilities
- Public health agencies
- Reference labs
- Education
Medical laboratory scientists may work as generalists, utilizing their expertise in various scientific disciplines, or they may choose to specialize in a particular area within larger hospitals.3 Pursuing a BS in Medical Laboratory Science program may help you open doors to various career opportunities, including specialization in a particular area of laboratory science and leadership roles. If you wish to further advance your education, consider pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree, such as the Master of Science in Health Administration with an Emphasis in Health Care Quality and Patient Safety from GCU.
As a graduate of this program, you may have the ability to pursue the following careers:
- Technical specialist
- Reference lab technologist
- Biomedical technologist
- Laboratory supervisor or manager
- Sales representative
If you're considering pursuing a career in medical laboratory science or are already on the path toward this field, we’ve gathered a few frequently asked questions about the degree program to help you make your decision.
1 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, retrieved on May 21, 2024.
2 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians as of May 2023, retrieved on May 22, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
3 Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (n.d.). Medical Laboratory Scientist. Retrieved on May 23, 2023.
4 Stone, J. (2022, April 28). We’re Facing A Critical Shortage of Medical Laboratory Professionals. Forbes. Retrieved on May 23, 2023.
5 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023, Feb. 16). What Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians Do. Retrieved on May 23, 2023.
Core Courses
Course Description
This is the second course in a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the principles and applications of microbiology and a study of the general characteristics of microorganisms, their activities, and their relationship to humans. Students develop understanding of microbial cell structure and function, microbial genetics, related pathologies, immunity, and other selected applied areas. Co-requisite: BIO-205L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of BIO-205 supports further learning surrounding principles gained in the lecture course. Students develop fundamental skills in microbiological laboratory techniques, microscopy methodologies, and the isolation and identification of pathogenic microorganisms. Co-requisite: BIO-205.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the properties, structure, function, thermodynamics, and basic genetics of macromolecules, including proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids. The course also covers how living systems synthesize and utilize these macromolecules and how that relates to energy production and use. Prerequisites: CHM-111 and CHM-111L, or CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-Requisite: CHM-350L.
Course Description
This laboratory course introduces techniques for analyzing macromolecules including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. It also explores basic biochemical pathways utilized by living systems that enable cellular function. Prerequisites: CHM-111 and CHM-111L, or CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-Requisite: CHM-350.
Course Description
This course is the first of a two-course sequence examining the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. This portion includes the study of cells; tissues; genetics; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Co-requisite: BIO-201L.
Course Description
This course is a systematic study of human gross anatomy and function. Topics include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Co-Requisite: BIO-201.
Course Description
This course provides an in depth study of the principles and applications of immunology and of the general characteristics of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Students develop understanding of pattern recognition receptors, antigen presentation, B and T cell responses, immunity, and other selected areas. Prerequisites: BIO-181 or BIO-201 or BIO-210, and BIO-205 or BIO-215.
Course Description
This course is the second of a two-course sequence examining the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. This portion includes the study of immunity; metabolism; energetics; fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance; and the endocrine, hematologic, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: BIO-201 and BIO-201L. Co-requisite: BIO-202L.
Course Description
This course is a systematic study of human gross anatomy and function. Topics include the endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and reproductive systems. Prerequisites: BIO-201 and BIO-201L. Co-Requisite: BIO-202.
Course Description
This course covers the language of medicine that will be used as a foundation for understanding upper level undergraduate and graduate level courses to follow. It will include pronunciation, definition, usage and origins of medical terms. Medical terms presented will be used to identify signs, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment options for selected pathologies. With these skills the student will be able to effectively interpret and communicate in a healthcare setting. Prerequisite: BIO-192 or BIO-202 or BIO-211 or BIO-364.
Course Description
Basic concepts and skills in the clinical laboratory are introduced and practiced preparing students for subsequent MLS laboratory courses Principles and applications of laboratory testing using safe practices and specimen quality assurance, preparation, and collection (phlebotomy). Core skills of microscopy and pipetting will be practiced in preparation for performing urinalysis and body fluid analysis. Point of Care testing instrumentation is introduced and practiced. Acceptance in MLS Program is required.
Course Description
Basic principles involving antigen/antibody complexes as they relate to basic concepts in immunology, clinical immunology techniques, immune related disease states, and diagnostic criteria. The background of nucleic acid chemistry along with current molecular methodologies of detection and applications will be explored. Acceptance in MLS Program is required.
Course Description
Fundamental theories of hematology and hemostasis are discussed, with an emphasis on the practice of routine laboratory evaluation of blood components using manual and microscopic methods, including safety and quality control. Introduction to abnormal hematology and hemostasis. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-303L.
Course Description
The practice of routine laboratory evaluation of blood components using manual and microscopic methods, including safety and quality control will be emphasized. Introduction to abnormal hematology and hemostasis lab testing will be employed and follow the lecture material closely. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-303.
Course Description
Basic concepts in clinical chemistry and quality control utilized in manual laboratory procedures are discussed with an emphasis on blood and body fluid assessments of carbohydrates, bilirubin, non-protein nitrogen testing and electrolyte acid/base balance. Proteins, lipids, enzymology, therapeutic drug monitoring, toxicology, and basic endocrinology will also be featured. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-305L.
Course Description
Manual techniques in clinical chemistry using spectrophotometry to perform assays. Quality control in manual laboratory procedures. Emphasis on blood and body fluid assessments of carbohydrates, bilirubin, non-protein nitrogen testing and electrolyte acid/base balance. Additional assessment of proteins, lipids, enzymology, therapeutic drug monitoring, toxicology, and basic endocrinology. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-305.
Course Description
Off-campus clinical experience providing exposure to Hematology laboratory practice. Specialized rotations may be available. Students must have taken the associated didactic course and laboratory. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Practicum/field experience hours: 40. Prerequisite: MLS-303, MLS-303L.
Course Description
Off-campus clinical experience providing exposure to Clinical Chemistry laboratory practice. Specialized rotations may be available. Students must have taken the associated didactic course and laboratory. Practicum/field experience hours: 40. Prerequisite: MLS-305, MLS-305L.
Course Description
This course provides coverage of clinically significant pathogenic bacteria, including epidemiology, pathogenicity, and procedures for manual laboratory identification. Topics and practice include antimicrobial identification testing and sensitivities as well as an introduction to clinical mycology, virology, parasitology. mycobacteria, and anaerobes. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-311L.
Course Description
This course compliments the lecture and provides techniques of identification of clinically significant pathogenic bacteria and procedures for manual laboratory testing techniques. Practice will include antimicrobial identification testing and sensitivities as well as an introduction to clinical mycology, virology, parasitology. mycobacteria, and anaerobes. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-311.
Course Description
Lecture and laboratory covering the basic principles Immunohematology (Transfusion Medicine) relevant to blood group serology and typing, population prevalence of antigens, antibody detection and identification, and compatibility testing of blood products. Component preparation and therapy in blood transfusion service, quality control, donor screening and transfusion reactions are explored. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-313L.
Course Description
Lecture and laboratory covering the basic principles Immunohematology (Transfusion Medicine) relevant to blood group serology and typing, population prevalence of antigens, antibody detection and identification, and compatibility testing of blood products. Component preparation and therapy in blood transfusion service, quality control, donor screening and transfusion reactions are explored. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Co-Requisite: MLS-313.
Course Description
Principles and applications of instrumentation used in current laboratory practice. Students will be exposed to automated methodology and computer applications to enhance the manual concepts previously introduced. Problem solving involving specimen integrity, interfering substances and basic instrument trouble shooting are explored. Cross departmental relationships are emphasized using an integrated case study approach in a simulated laboratory experience. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-303,, MLS-303L, MLS-305, MLS-305L.
Course Description
Off-campus clinical experience providing exposure to Clinical Microbiology laboratory practice. Specialized rotations may be available. Students must have taken the associated didactic course and laboratory. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Practicum/field experience hours: 40. Prerequisite: MLS-311, MLS-311L.
Course Description
Off-campus clinical experience providing exposure to Clinical Immunohematology laboratory practice. Specialized rotations may be available. Students must have taken the associated didactic course and laboratory. Practicum/field experience hours: 40. Prerequisite: MLS-313, MLS-313L.
Course Description
Advanced theory to include laboratory instrument system comparison, evaluation, and validation procedures with emphasis on scientific research design and statistical analysis. Interrelated topics to include approaches to work-load management, designing and implementing standards for quality assurance, budgeting, and marketing strategies. How to select, evaluate, design, perform, and document validation studies on new instrumentation or analytical methods. This is a writing-intensive course. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-301L, MLS-311L, MLS-313L, MLS-315.
Course Description
Correlation of medical laboratory hematology and hemostasis with emphasis on hematopathology, disease classification (malignant vs benign), specialized procedures, and hematological abnormalities in human cellular components. Specialized hematology and coagulation procedures will also be studied, and patterns analyzed to detect hemorrhagic and thrombotic problems and treatment. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-303, MLS-303L.
Course Description
Problem-solving oriented course presents the correlation of clinical chemistry test results to organ-related diseases, such as renal, hepatic, and endocrine diseases. Students will learn how to use clinical correlation as a quality assurance tool to detect patient testing errors. Additionally, blood gases, therapeutic drug monitoring, drugs of abuse and toxicology studies are presented. Acceptance in MLS Program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-305, MLS-305L.
Course Description
Students will identify a laboratory related project or research question and develop an original design to address the issue. Students will work closely with a faculty mentor or laboratory mentor and if deemed applicable will prepare a grant application for funding of supplies and reagents and write an IRB (Institutional Review Board) application. Acceptance in the MLS program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-315.
Course Description
This course begins with a comprehensive review of introductory clinical bacteriology, virology, and mycology, along with a culture site approach to clinical bacteriology for the laboratory identification of pathogens by traditional manual methods. Diagnostic molecular biology and mass-spectrometry analysis of infectious microorganisms will also be addressed. Acceptance in MLS program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-311, MLS-311L.
Course Description
Advanced blood banking theory and specialized procedures as they pertain to antibody identification, transfusion, component preparation and distribution, compatibility testing, quality assurance, investigation of unexpected results, and regulatory issues pertaining to Transfusion Medicine. Acceptance in MLS program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-313, MLS-313L.
Course Description
Basic instructional and pedagogical theory as it applies to the field of medical laboratory science. Basic principles and applications of operating a medical laboratory to include management styles, leadership of small groups, human resource management, and key features of technical supervision will also be covered. Acceptance in MLS program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-402.
Course Description
Students will continue to work closely with a faculty or laboratory mentor in the development of the project’s resolution and conclusion. After completing the project students will present their findings in written, poster and oral format. This is a writing-intensive course. Acceptance in the MLS program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-410.
Course Description
This course integrates material from all major medical laboratory science disciplines, including blood bank, chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology, laboratory operations, and urinalysis. Case studies utilized present information about pathophysiology, etiology, and epidemiology, as well as analysis of laboratory results and their significance. Students correlate results with disease states and continue to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills. Practical study skills and certification exam preparation are high priority. Acceptance in MLS program is required. Prerequisite: MLS-402.
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* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.