Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership

Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership
04.11.2025
30
05.12.2025
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A Master’s in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership provides graduate-level professionals and scholars the knowledge and skills needed to address the advances in high-complexity and specialized testing, administration, and educational needs in the diagnostic laboratory to maintain and improve the quality of healthcare nationwide.

Laboratory scientists examine body fluids and tissues and perform complex tests on patient samples – relaying test results to physicians. Leaders in this space must gain unique knowledge, application, and understanding of laboratory-specific processes, regulations, and challenges to meet the needs currently facing the laboratory profession. A Master’s in Medical Laboratory Science online from the University of Cincinnati helps you gain the leadership skills and education you need to take on new roles, without many of the traditional barriers to continuing your education. A MLS master’s degree is a valuable degree that will open new career opportunities as the demand for leaders in laboratory science grows.

University of Cincinnati’s Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership Program

The University of Cincinnati’s Master’s in Medical Laboratory Science is designed to provide practicing professionals of medical laboratory science and related fields with additional knowledge, skills, and attributes in leadership, management, education, research, and advanced practice methods. This graduate degree is part of the laboratory science degree pathway available exclusively through UC Online. With course design that prioritizes manageability for working professionals, the experience with UC Online is unlike any other MLS master’s programs.

The Medical Laboratory Science Master’s program coursework and experiences emphasize the competencies required of medical laboratory professionals to serve as leaders and educators following the standards of ethics and professionalism outlined by The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) and the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

In addition, students in the Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership program will have the opportunity to obtain a national American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) specialty certification within the various laboratory science content areas. These are based on ASCP Route 2 (Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology or Molecular Biology) or Route 3 (Blood Banking or Cytometry) requirements with three years of appropriate clinical laboratory or teaching experience within the last 6 years. Eligibility is determined by ASCP.

Is a Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership Right for Me?

Are you a medical professional looking to take the next step in your journey in the laboratory science field? Are you interested in learning more and training for a job in a lab that goes beyond what a bachelor’s degree offers? Do you desire to move into more of a leadership or management role in the medical profession? Then a Master’s in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership degree might be the perfect step for you.

If you’re concerned about balancing life and school while getting your mls master degree, the University of Cincinnati Online makes it simple. The asynchronous format of all online classes allows you to complete assignments when it’s most convenient for you as long as you complete them by the deadline. UC Online prides itself on its unparalleled support system that is there for all students from application to graduation!

If you are outside of the United States and interested in this program, read more about the application process for international students.

The Master’s in Medical Laboratory Science is for those with experience in:

  • Biomedical Research
  • Certified Laboratory Assistance
  • Chemistry
  • Certified Laboratory Assistance
  • Chemistry
  • Cytogenetics
  • Hematology
  • Histology
  • Laboratory/Life Science Education
  • Medical Laboratory Technology
  • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pathology
  • Phlebotomy

Medical lab science graduate in cap and gown at a graduation ceremonyMaster’s in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership Career Outlook

A Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership degree provides several career options for graduates, including management, education, and specialized laboratory practice roles.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians (another name for Medical Laboratory Scientists) is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations: 5% between 2022 and 2032. This is due to an aging population who are predicted to need more diagnostic tests for medical conditions like diabetes and cancer.

The average salary for a clinical laboratory technologist as of May 2022 was $57,380 and can be expected to be greater for those who obtain a master’s degree or higher.

A Master’s of Medical Laboratory Science Leadership degree opens the doors to a variety of leadership roles. These roles include:
  • Administrator/Management
  • Advanced Practice Specialist
  • Educator
  • Lead Technical Specialist
  • Technical Supervisor

A Full Laboratory Science Degree Pathway Through UC Online

Your career journey doesn’t have to stop here! The University of Cincinnati is excited to offer a full laboratory science pathway completely online. Beginning in Fall 2025, the Doctorate of Clinical Laboratory Science (DCLS) through the University of Cincinnati Online will accept new students. This new online degree is designed to build on the skills and competencies taught in this program and the Bachelor’s in Medical Laboratory Science to produce advanced lab science professionals who will lead administrative, education, and research positions.

Be sure to review the DCLS admission requirements to see if you qualify for this program and learn how a DCLS can help take your career even further!

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The program is designed for working professionals who need the flexibility of online classes.
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Earn an ASCP certification in specialization of your choice.