Laboratory Professional and US Public Service Officer Reaches new Heights Thanks to UC Online

Undoubtedly, you have heard of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and even Space Force, but many are surprised to learn about the Commissioned Corpse of the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS). That’s the branch that Lieutenant Commander David Hamilton, MLS (ASCP), a University of Cincinnati Graduate, serves his country by protecting and promoting health.

David has worked heavily in the Bureau of Prisons, as both a commissioned and civilian employee, helping to implement diagnostic strategies for vulnerable populations within the U.S. prison system. A graduate of the UC’s Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership program through UC Online, we caught up to Lt. Cmdr. Hamilton to ask him about his experience and how it has helped him in his career.

What motivated you to seek this degree?

I wanted to enhance my knowledge and skills for my role as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Public Health Service.

What made you select UC Online over other institutions?

UC Online has a unique program for laboratory professionals seeking advanced degrees, specifically in leadership. Online programs fit my schedule personally and professionally. They allow for flexibility and cut out the time required to travel like in a traditional college setting.

What were your expectations of the medical laboratory science graduate program? Were they met?

I expected to develop proven laboratory leadership skills that were beyond my personal experiences and that were learned by trial and error. All those expectations were met.

Overall, how would you describe the online learning experience?

I enjoyed my online learning experience. It was much different from my undergraduate experience over 20 years ago when online learning at this level was not available.

What are your thoughts about the professors of the UC Online program and the staff at UC?

All the professors I encountered at UC inside and outside of this program of study were very knowledgeable and professional. I found each of them to be very approachable, responsive, and encouraging. This was a very different interaction than I expected based on my previous undergraduate experience.

What would you say to someone considering the medical laboratory science leadership degree? Would you recommend UC Online?

To those seeking this degree, I would say that the program director was great to work with and extremely helpful along the way. It was a positive experience that went well beyond my expectations!

I recommend others to the University of Cincinnati Online programs. This one allowed for a tremendous amount of flexibility. The content is presented in an organized matter and is easy to navigate overall.

What do you plan to do with your degree?

I will continue to serve in my role in the USPHS and apply the leadership skills I learned in this program!

Get a Unique Education Experience from the University of Cincinnati Online

The medical laboratory science industry that Lt. Cmdr. Hamilton is part of has an ever-growing need for leadership professionals. The education experience that UC’s programs provide allows for advancement while not having to give up their existing position in protecting the health of our country. With an asynchronous class structure that allows for assignments to be completed anywhere at any time, your work, family, and education can be easily balanced!

Our world-class faculty and staff are here to support you every step of the way so that you can make the impact you want on the industry and your career. David’s story is one of many who have climbed to new heights in their education, career, and in this case, service to the vulnerable populations in the United States.

If you’re ready to learn more about the Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership, contact an advisor online, or call (833) 556-8611 today and start your journey at UC!