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
- 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
- AHLS497-MLT-MLS Integrated Experience – 2-5 credits
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.
Program Type: Online certificate
College: College of Health and Human Sciences, Medical Laboratory Science
Credits Required:
Certificate in Clinical Core Lab – 12 credits
Certificate in Clinical Microbiology Lab – 7 credits
Tuition per Credit: $360.80 (Learn more about tuition and fees)
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 |
Contact Ellen Olsen, MLS Program Coordinator at eolsen1@niu.edu or 815-753-6300 for more information.