Medical Laboratory Sciences Workforce Development Certificate Program

About the Program

This certificate program is designed to enhance the NIU clinical affiliate medical laboratory professional working in a clinical core laboratory or clinical microbiology laboratory who has not majored in Medical Laboratory Sciences but are in a pursuit of external certification as a technologist in a specific discipline.

Applicants must be working in a clinical lab setting and hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or other related major. Students must have a combination of 30 semester hours (45  quarter hours) in biology and chemistry, which may be obtained within, or in addition to, the baccalaureate degree.  

Students in each certificate will take the required courses as listed below in agreement with their clinical lab workplace supervisor. To earn this certificate, students must maintain a good academic standing in the university, achieve a minimum grade of C in each certificate course and complete all certificate course work within two academic years.

See ASCP requirements for certification as a discipline specific technologist.

Program Mode of Delivery

Core major courses for this program are delivered entirely online.

Curriculum

To complete the certificate in clinical core lab the following courses must be taken (12 credits):

• AHLS301-Medical Immunology (1st 8 weeks) – 2 credits
• AHLS302-Hematology/Hemostasis – 3 credits
• AHLS300-Urinalysis (1st 8 weeks) – 2 credits
• AHLS308-Body Fluids (2nd 8 weeks) – 1 credit
• AHLS344-Medical Diagnostic Biochemistry – 4 credits

To complete the certificate in clinical microbiology lab the following courses must be taken (9 credits):

• AHLS301-Medical Immunology (1st 8 weeks) – 2 credits
• AHLS335-Medical Diagnostic Mycology and Parasitology – 2 credits
• AHLS336-Medical Diagnostic Microbiology – 3 credits

Optional additional courses available:

• Fall only:
  • AHLS303-Immunohematology (2nd 8 weeks) – 2 credits
• Fall or spring:
  • AHLS497-MLT-MLS Integrated Experience – 2-5 credits
    • Independent structured activities based on student’s previous clinical lab experience
    • Use of simulations, writing projects, case studies, and other personalized laboratory activities designed to allow student to demonstrate competency for the degree
    • Modules and credit hours to be determined through interview of student and MLS program director
  • AHLS 304 - Foundations of MLS (8 weeks) – 1 credit

Applying to the Program

In order to gain permission to enroll in the MLS Program courses, you must first apply to NIU as a postbaccalaureate student.

Faculty

Learn more about the professionals who will help you gain valuable knowledge in the field.

Why NIU Online?

We know you have responsibilities and commitments. It's just easier if you're able to take classes where you are without the commute. The good news is that with NIU, you're not alone. Your classmates and instructors are available via the same technology that helps deliver your classes. In our classrooms or in your living room, we want you to succeed academically because your future is our focus.

Application Deadlines

For applicants residing in the U.S.

Term	Deadline
Fall	August 1
Spring	December 1

For international students living abroad

Term	Deadline
Fall	October 1
Spring	December 1

Apply

Contact Ellen Olsen, MLS Program Coordinator at eolsen1@niu.edu or 815-753-6300 for more information.