About Medical Laboratory Science
Medical Laboratory Scientists are scientists who perform laboratory tests on blood, body fluids and tissues. The results of these tests are used in diagnosis and treatment of disease, maintaining health, drug monitoring, organ transplantation and forensic medicine. Clinical laboratory procedures require the use of an array of complex, precise instruments and a variety of automated and manual equipment. Medical laboratory scientists who use these tools must be accurate and reliable. An interest in helping others and an awareness of responsibility for the lives of others establish the medical laboratory scientist as a vital member of the healthcare team.

Program Description
The College's Medical Laboratory Science Program prepares graduates to function in responsible positions in a laboratory environment. Students entering the 12-month program must have completed three years of college, and be eligible for a baccalaureate degree following completion of the program's coursework. The College will establish an affiliation agreement with the student's degree-granting home institution for one year of completed study in the Medical Laboratory Science Program.  Candidates who have already received a baccalaureate degree may also be eligible for entry into the program.

The program has been in existence since 1952. Classes take place at the College, with clinical experience provided in the clinical laboratories of the Lancaster General Hospital and additional sites.

Upon successful completion of the program and a national certifying exam, graduates are prepared to enter the health field as entry-level clinical laboratory scientists. The Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119, 773-714-8880.

Mission
The mission of Medical Laboratory Science is to prepare students to enter the profession with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed for clinical competence and with the independent learning skills needed to grow in and contribute to the profession throughout their careers.

Educational Outcomes
At the completion of the program in Medical Laboratory Science, the student is expected to display the following competencies at career entry level:

• Collaborate with diverse healthcare team members to provide patient care and perform quality, cost-effective laboratory procedures.
• Incorporate concepts learned through classroom instruction and clinical practice to ensure accurate, meaningful laboratory results that reflect current standards of care.
• Practice responsibility in compliance with ethical, social, legal and regulatory requirements of Medical Laboratory Science professionals.
• Utilize appropriate methods for the basic operation and troubleshooting of laboratory instrumentation and information systems.
• Recognize the importance of continuously integrating new technologies and procedures into clinical practice.
• Demonstrate a commitment to maintain competency and promote development through participation in professional activitities.

Updated 6/23/10