Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, Specialization in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Oakland University

Overview

The Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, Specialization in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) at Oakland University provides students with the essential scientific foundation required for modern pathology and diagnostic medicine. This comprehensive undergraduate programme focuses on the analysis of body tissues and fluids to support disease detection and treatment evaluation.

Students typically apply for formal specialization standing at the conclusion of their sophomore year after completing the core curriculum. The subsequent junior and senior years involve intensive professional coursework delivered on campus. To achieve national certification, graduates often pursue a competitive clinical internship lasting between six and ten months at an affiliated medical centre.

Why Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, Specialization in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) at Oakland University?

Oakland University maintains strong professional affiliations with prestigious clinical sites, including the Detroit Medical Center University Laboratories and Beaumont Health in Royal Oak. These partnerships ensure that students have access to high-quality internship opportunities essential for professional employment in hospital settings. The curriculum is designed to meet the high standards required for national certification in the field.

The School of Health Sciences offers a supportive academic environment with dedicated coordinators to guide students through the complex application processes for clinical placements. Facilities are equipped to handle diverse specializations, ranging from clinical chemistry to molecular diagnostics. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the technical demands of modern healthcare laboratories.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 23867 per year
• National fee: USD 23867 per year
• Local fee: USD 16772 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Biology I
• Human Anatomy
• Human Anatomy Laboratory
• Human Physiology
• Careers in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences
• Contemporary Issues in Health Care Organizations and Practice
• Medical Terminology
• Laboratory Theory and Techniques
• Ethics in Health Care
• Statistical Concepts and Reasoning
• Statistical Methods for Biology
• Applied Probability and Statistics
• Physics I
• Physics II
• Medical Genetics
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Hematology/Hemostasis I
• Hematology/Hemostasis Laboratory I
• Hematology/Hemostasis II
• Hematology/Hemostasis Laboratory II
• Medical Immunology
• Immunohematology
• Immunohematology Laboratory
• Medical Biochemistry
• Clinical Chemistry
• Clinical Chemistry Laboratory
• Clinical Microbiology
• Clinical Microbiology Laboratory
• Clinical Parasitology, Mycology, Virology
• Clinical Parasitology, Mycology, Virology Lab
• Clinical Correlations

Careers with Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, Specialization in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)

Graduates are prepared for vital roles as medical laboratory scientists within hospital laboratories, private diagnostic centres, and research institutions. They perform critical diagnostic tests across various departments, including hematology, microbiology, serology, and immunohematology. These professionals provide the data necessary for physicians to diagnose illnesses and monitor patient health.

The programme also establishes a robust foundation for those seeking careers in molecular diagnostics or clinical chemistry. National certification, often obtained following the recommended clinical internship, is a standard requirement for most employment positions in the sector. Graduates may find opportunities in public health facilities, pharmaceutical companies, or specialized pathology clinics.