Online Medical Lab Sciences Degree (MLT to MLS)

Q: How hard is an online medical lab sciences degree?

An MLS degree requires a strong foundation in chemistry, biology and clinical lab procedures, which some students may find challenging. Earning a degree online requires time management skills and a commitment to learning. Students who enjoy science and are passionate about healthcare may find the program rewarding and, in turn, worth the effort.

Q: What’s the difference between an MLS program and an MLT to MLS program?

A medical lab sciences degree is designed for students without prior certification as a medical lab technician. Those who already have an MLT associate degree or certification can complete the MLT to MLS program as a pathway to becoming a medical lab scientist.

Overview

Develop Skills in Scientific Analysis and Modern Lab Techniques

The Bachelor of Science in Medical Lab Sciences (MLT to MLS) degree provides eligible students who have successfully completed a medical lab technician (MLT) program or certification with the opportunity to complete their bachelor's degree in medical lab sciences. This program builds on your existing knowledge, aiming to deepen your expertise in chemistry, microbiology, immunohematology and other related fields.

Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science (MLT to MLS)

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Online

Tuition Rate

Online: $485 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Online: 7 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Enhance Your Understanding of Complex Diagnostic Procedures

GCU’s MLT to MLS online degree guides students in developing advanced skills in laboratory testing, including disease classification, specialized procedures and the investigation of unexpected results. This program blends theory and application, offering opportunities to address laboratory research questions through original designs under the supervision of an experienced faculty or laboratory mentor.

As a student, you can benefit from a holistic education that contributes to personal and professional development. Our curriculum is designed through the lens of a Christian worldview, helping you find your purpose while pursuing a career in healthcare.

Earn Your MLT to MLS Online Degree With Flexibility

GCU’s online medical lab sciences degree is designed to offer a flexible learning format, so you can pursue your MLS degree while balancing personal and professional commitments.

Online Learning

Careers

Career Opportunities for Graduates of the MLS Online Program

This MLT to MLS pathway can help prepare you to move from performing routine lab work to taking on more complex testing and analysis as a medical lab scientist. It may also open opportunities for supervisory, research and specialized roles in clinical and research laboratories.

Medical laboratory scientists work in a variety of settings, including:^{(See disclaimer 1,2)}

Hospitals and doctors’ offices

Medical and diagnostic laboratories

Public health organizations

Fertility centers

Research facilities

Blood and organ banks

$61,890

Median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in May 2024^{(See disclaimer 3)}

22,600

New jobs estimated to open each year for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians from 2024 to 2034^{(See disclaimer 4)}

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore answers to common questions about earning an online medical lab sciences degree.

Is an MLT to MLS program worth it?

An MLT to MLS program may be worthwhile for certified MLTs seeking to advance their credentials and become a medical lab scientist. This program provides students with the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree that builds on their existing skills, teaching them to master advanced concepts in laboratory science. An MLS degree can also help you prepare for leadership responsibilities and specialized roles.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

How do I bridge from an MLT to MLS?

You can make the professional jump from an MLT to MLS by completing a bachelor’s degree in medical lab science. Whereas clinical laboratory technicians typically only have an associate degree, medical lab scientists generally hold at least a bachelor’s degree.^{(See disclaimer 6)} Although these professionals often have similar responsibilities, medical lab scientists conduct more specialized testing due to their advanced knowledge in the field.

How hard is an online medical lab sciences degree?

What’s the difference between an MLS program and an MLT to MLS program?

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements14-16 credits

Major40 credits

Open Elective Credits64-66 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Required General Education Courses

CWV-301

4 Total Credits

Course Description

A worldview acts like glasses through which one views the world. In this course, students explore the big questions that make up a worldview, questions like "Why are we here?" and "What is my purpose?" Students examine how Christians answer these questions and work on exploring their own worldviews, as well as learning how worldview influences one’s perceptions, decision-making, and everyday life.

Core Courses

CHM-350

3 Total Credits

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.

CHM-350L

1 Total Credits

BIO-358

4 Total Credits

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.

BIO-335

2 Total Credits

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.

MAT-274

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.

MLS-402

4 Total Credits

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.

MLS-404

4 Total Credits

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.

MLS-410

1 Total Credits

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.

MLS-406

4 Total Credits

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.

MLS-412

4 Total Credits

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.

MLS-408

2 Total Credits

MLS-414

4 Total Credits

MLS-416

2 Total Credits

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.

MLS-418

1 Total Credits

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
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

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Financial

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Admission

Deepen Your Expertise in Diagnostic Science

Take the next step toward becoming a vital part of patient care. Pursue a career in medical laboratory science with GCU’s MLT to MLS degree.

Apply Now

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025, Aug. 28). Occupational Outlook Handbook. Work Environment. Retrieved October 2025.
Montiero, I. (2025, June 9). Medical Laboratory Technician: Duties, Salary and Skills. Indeed Career Guide. Retrieved October 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, as of May 2024, retrieved October 2025. 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 is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. 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.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, retrieved September 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025, Aug. 28). Occupational Outlook Handbook. What Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians Do. Retrieved October 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025, Aug. 28). Occupational Outlook Handbook. How to Become a Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Technician. Retrieved October 2025.

MLT to MLS Online Degree

Develop Skills in Scientific Analysis and Modern Lab Techniques

Enhance Your Understanding of Complex Diagnostic Procedures

Earn Your MLT to MLS Online Degree With Flexibility

Online Medical Lab Sciences Degree Coursework

Career Opportunities for Graduates of the MLS Online Program

Earn Your MLS Degree From an Accredited University

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses