To compliment the integrated BSc in Medical Laboratory Science, the University of Alberta also offers a degree-completion program for technologists with general certification from the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS). The post-diploma program (formerly named the post-RT program) may be undertaken on a full- or part-time basis.
What the Program Offers
A BSc in MLS from the University of Alberta offers technologists many opportunities.
There are several different types of post-diploma degree programs. For example, some offer the equivalent of a four-year BSc and some the equivalent of a three-year BSc. As well, programs differ in entrance requirements and course delivery. The post-diploma program at the University of Alberta has much to offer. It confers the equivalent of a four-year BSc that is recognized internationally as producing excellent graduates. Credit is given for a wide variety of educational experiences. As well, specialization in all areas of laboratory medicine is possible.
Certainly, graduates of the MLS program at the University of Alberta will have an expanded knowledge base of laboratory medicine. But what additional general skills should a diploma technologist expect to attain with a four-year BSc? In the University of Alberta curriculum, communication and research courses are compulsory. Depending on the topic for the latter, skills acquired could include current research techniques such as DNA analysis and PCR, flow cytometry, specialized chromatographic procedures, and tissue culture.
A list of the additional opportunities that would come with a four-year degree are numerous and document the challenges that graduates from both the integrated BSc and degree-completion programs at the University of Alberta have taken up. They include graduate programs in medicine (MD), clinical and basic medical science (MSc and PhD), business (MBA), public health (MHSA, MHA, or MPH), education (MEd), dentistry (DDS), and many more.
Many graduates become employed as research technologists, biotechnologists, environment technologists, and food technologists. Perhaps most important to those who are committed to actively practicing as medical technologists, graduates attain international marketability through their eligibility to write the ASCP MT and NCA CLS certification examinations. Graduates of the BSc MLS program at the University of Alberta are currently working in several countries worldwide and in numerous states south of the 49th parallel.
For technologists planning to stay in the health care field or to leave it, the BSc (MLS) at the University of Alberta offers excellent value for money. With two years of study, individuals will obtain a first class degree that multiplies their opportunities and expands horizons.