About this Program

Medical laboratory science is a challenging and rewarding healthcare profession. An essential member of the healthcare team, the medical technologist/medical laboratory scientist provides vital information about the status and function of the body and its systems. Students acquire the skills and knowledge needed to provide data, obtained by precision instruments and electronic equipment, that is utilized in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. When the B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science degree requirements are successfully completed, the graduate is eligible for MLS examination and certification through the Board of Certification of the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

Program Highlights

  • Microscopy and performance of manual assays with dexterity and precision

  • Quality control, quality assurance and performance improvement

  • Utilization of a computerized information system for data input, retrieval and analysis

  • Service learning projects are available such as the annual Faye E. Coleman Memorial blood drive sponsored by Medical Laboratory Science Student Association (MLSSA).

  • Medical laboratory instrument operation, maintenance and troubleshooting critical assessment of laboratory test outcomes

  • Clinical laboratory rotations at eight major health systems or hospitals in the area, excellent MLS certification pass rates, nearly 100% job placement rates every year

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Degree Earned
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Quality Control Systems Managers

$110,580 Median Salary

Plan, direct, or coordinate quality assurance programs. Formulate quality control policies and control quality of laboratory and production efforts.

Quality Control Analysts

$51,160 Median Salary

Conduct tests to determine quality of raw materials, bulk intermediate and finished products. May conduct stability sample tests.

Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

$122,890 Median Salary

Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists

Perform complex medical laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. May train or supervise staff.

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Medical Laboratory Science at ODU?
Students entering the Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science program in Medical Laboratory Science should meet the minimum university admission requirements Undergraduate Admission.
    • Completed program application form with goals statement
    • Official transcripts from all universities and colleges attended
    • Biology and chemistry prerequisites cumulative grade point average
    • Three reference forms are required (at least two from an academic source and cannot be provided by the applicant’s relative)
    • Formal interview after initial pre-screening

For Admission to the Medical Laboratory Science Program

GPA

Overall grade point average (accepted MLS students have GPA of 3.1 on average)

Transfer

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Active Duty Military Rate
Cost Per-Credit $250
Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $393
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $407
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,073

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Contact

Clinical Assistant Professor

2126 HEALTH SCIENCES BLDG
NORFOLK, 23529