About the Medical Laboratory Science Program

Overview

The Department of Pathology's Program in Medical Laboratory Science (formerly Medical Technology) was established in 1942 as one of the professional schools of North Carolina Baptist Hospital and The Bowman Gray School of Medicine of Wake Forest University. Since that time, it has graduated more than 800 medical technologists who are serving in medical laboratories throughout the country. In addition, the program trains second-year pathology residents in laboratory techniques and procedures.The program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

Excellent learning experiences are provided in classrooms and clinical laboratories where each year more than 3 million tests and analyses are performed. Program graduates are eligible to take national certification examinations given by the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

About The Profession

Medical Laboratory Science is an allied health profession that employs sophisticated medical laboratory procedures to assist physicians in evaluating the medical conditions of their patients. Medical laboratory scientists must be able to obtain blood specimens, analyze biological specimens using both instrumental and manual techniques, and report accurate results in a timely manner.

To accomplish these and other duties, medical laboratory scientists must have a theoretical knowledge base and practical skills in clinical laboratory science. They must be able to think logically, organize and prioritize tasks, and function well under pressure as they perform detailed laboratory procedures. They must be dependable, able to work cooperatively with others, and able to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Many career opportunities exist for medical laboratory scientists in hospitals, reference laboratories, clinics, business and industry. Demand for skilled health care workers is especially great in rural areas and inner cities. Medical laboratory science knowledge and experience also provide an excellent background for pursuing a degree in medicine or an advanced degree in any biological discipline.

Program Mission

"The mission of the Program in Medical Laboratory Science is to provide superior education to prepare competent medical technologists with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that are required to fulfill current and future professional roles and leadership positions as members of the health care team."

Program Details

Use the navigation menu at left to learn more about the program, its faculty, the courses offered, and admission requirements.