Online Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science
The online MLT-to-MLS Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science offered by the University of Cincinnati College of Allied Health Sciences is a convenient choice for those who have already completed an associate degree program in CLT or MLT. This program enables students to earn their bachelor’s degree while balancing work and personal responsibilities, offering the flexibility to overcome traditional obstacles to continuing their education.
MLT-to-MLS BS in Medical Laboratory Science Program Overview
Our program teaches the technical expertise and academic foundation essential for today’s medical laboratory scientists. The Medical Laboratory Science curriculum is designed to develop the competencies, ethics, and professional standards defined by the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS), ensuring that you’ll be well prepared for the medical laboratory science board of certification exam.
Students will also complete a hands-on clinical practicum and a capstone research project as part of the Medical Lab Science program. The practicum is customized to each student’s needs, and those with sufficient prior work experience may receive Life Experience Credit from the university to fulfill some or all practicum requirements. Eligibility is based on course grades, timeline of work experience, competency evaluations, and professional references. An Enrollment Advisor can provide more details.
BS MLS Program Highlights
High Quality Education
- Prepares students for ASCP MLS certification exam
- World-class faculty — learn from experts in the field of medical laboratory science
- Over 20 years of history as an online MLT-to-MLS program
- Transfer credits accepted from NAACLS* accredited CLT/MLT associate degree programs
- Graduates from this program can qualify for the Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science and the Doctorate of Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Flexibility
- 100% online
- Can be completed in just over two years
- Start in the fall, spring, or summer semester
- Financial aid & scholarship options available
Support from Application through Graduation
At UC, you’ll have a full support team behind you:
Enrollment Services Advisor: Your partner through the application process, getting enrolled, and starting your program
Student Success Coordinator: Helping you prepare for classes and stay on track
Access to Resources: Access to university resources that will support you through your program including online learning expectations and resources, health and wellness resources, and academic support
The Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science program is designed to emphasize the technical and academic skills necessary for today’s medical laboratory scientist. Your coursework will prepare you for the competencies, ethics and professionalism outlined by the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.
The program is designed for working professionals, and can be completed in just over two years. Students can start in the fall, spring, or summer semester.
Life Experience Credit for Clinicals
Students with qualifying work experience may be awarded Life Experience Credit by the university to meet some or all clinical practicum requirements. Eligibility is determined through a review of course grades, timeline of work experience, program competency evaluations, and professional references. For more information, contact an enrollment services advisor.
| Course | Title / Description | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| MLSC 3052 | Special Topics in Medical Laboratory Science An objective look at the field of Medical Laboratory Science from its inception, and leadingup to current and future technologies with an emphasis on current topics such as ethical and social concerns, governmental issues, professionalism and health care delivery. |
2 |
| MLSC 3063 | Principles of Molecular and Immunological Studies This course will provide a foundational study of molecular biology and immunological principles. Topics will include the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA, RNA, and involved proteins, mechanism of inheritance, and physiology of the immune system. Basic laboratory testing in immunologic and molecular methodologies and principles will also be covered. |
3 |
| MLSC 3054 | Clinical Fluid Analysis A study of renal function and urinalysis procedures and body fluid examination. |
2 |
| MLSC 4059 | Special Microbiology This course is a focused study of special microbiology. Clinically relevant fungal, parasitic, and viral pathogens are covered. Emphasis is placed on diagnostic forms and clinical correlation of laboratory findings. |
3 |
| MLSC 4060 | Clinical Microbiology A study of the microorganisms associated with human infectious processes. Discussions include the characteristics, isolation, identification, and clinical infections associated with pathogenic microorganisms. |
3 |
| MLSC 4061 | Advanced Clinical Microbiology A continued study of the microorganisms associated with human infectious processes. Discussions include the characteristics, isolation, identification, and specialized antimicrobial techniques associated with pathogenic bacteria, as well as the role of the microbiology lab in the health care setting. |
3 |
| MLSC 4062 | Principles of Immunohematology A study of the theory, principles, and procedures associated with transfusion medicine. Discussions cover routine procedures, blood donors, components, regulations, and quality assurance. |
3 |
| MLSC4063 | Advanced Immunohematology A more advanced study of the theory, principles, and procedures associated with transfusion medicine. Discussions cover specialized procedures, advanced applications and quality assurance. |
4 |
| MLSC 3055 | Statistics for Medical Laboratory Practice This course will focus on the statistical principles that are pertinent to health care and to the medical laboratory, as well as quality assurance. |
2 |
| MLSC 4050 | Diagnostic Molecular Biology A basic study of medical genetics including the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA, RNA, and involved proteins; the mechanism of inheritance; and medical genetics. The study of molecular biology techniques and their applications is included as well as the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Discussions on ethics and emerging technologies are also included. |
3 |
| MLSC 4051 | Clinical Chemistry A study of serum and fluid chemistry in normal and pathological states and methods of analysis. Topics in this first course of a series of two include discussions on normal physiology as well as correlation of normal and abnormal human physiology as they relate to organ system function. |
3 |
| MLSC 4066 | Advanced Clinical Chemistry A study of serum and fluid chemistry in normal and pathological states and methods of analysis. Topics in this second course of a series of two include continued discussions on normal physiology as well as correlation of normal and abnormal human physiology as they relate to organ system function. Advanced topics include critical analysis and interpretation of clinical chemistry data. |
3 |
| MLSC 4053 | Advanced Clinical Molecular & Immunological Diagnostics An advanced study of clinical immunology and molecular biology, focusing on classical and emerging diagnostic applications using molecular and immunologic principles. Topics will include routine and complex testing techniques used across laboratory disciplines. Additional coverage will include immunologic and molecular mechanisms of inheritance and disease, related testing and ethical implications. |
3 |
| MLSC 4057 | Hematology A study of blood and blood cells in a normal state from development through senescence. Topics in this first course of a series of two include discussions on correlation of test results with the cells morphological appearance. |
3 |
| MLSC 4068 | Advanced Hematology This second course in a series of two studies the blood and blood cells in abnormal or malignant states. Topics include discussions on normal and abnormal hematopoiesis and Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell disorders as well as the correlation of test results with disease states and therapies. Advance topics include critical analysis and interpretation of hematological data and Platelet disorders. |
4 |
| MLSC 3056 | Hemostasis A comprehensive study of the blood clotting systemin normal and pathological states, which includes discussions regarding the correlation of test results with diseases. |
1 |
| MLSC 3051 | Laboratory Operations A study of the basic principles of clinical laboratory management, including theory and practice. Topics will include personnel and financial management, regulation and accreditation, information management, quality assurance, quality control, clinical and continuing education. |
2 |
| MLSC 3963 | Advanced Lab Concepts An advanced MLS course that focuses on advanced, applied clinical laboratory techniques, concepts, troubleshooting, and management level decisions and processes. Advanced interpretation, application and correlations in all laboratory areas are included. Principles of clinical laboratory management including quality assurance and quality control will be included. |
2 |
| MLSC 4069 | Advanced Clinical Practice A clinical practicum experience that will focus on advanced, applied clinical laboratory techniques and concepts. The practicum experience will be individually designed for each student; the student will participate in identifying the practicum site. Included is a focused study of laboratory techniques and instrumentation as they apply to diagnosing disease. |
1 |
| MLSC 4058 | Medical Laboratory Science Capstone A course in which students participate in a series of current topic seminars culminating in the development and presentation of a fundamental research project involving an aspect of state-of-the art clinical laboratory science practice. Under the direction of faculty, students prepare a written report and publicly present their findings. |
2 |
| MLSC 4071 | Advanced Clinical Correlations This advanced course will focus on further development of critical thinking and problem solving skills in all of the laboratory disciplines, as well as integration of laboratory analyses, interpretation and application. Activities include discussions, case studies, interactive activities and assignments, focused reviews and examinations. Mastery of content will be assessed through a comprehensive examination. |
6 |
Students pursuing admission into the MLT-to-MLS Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science program are required to satisfy all the admission requirements outlined below. Proof of MLT certification and an associate degree are required for most applicants. We do offer some exceptions for military MLTs and MLTs who graduated more than five years ago.
Our Admissions Office is happy to work with you to answer any questions you may have and help determine your eligibility. To confirm you qualify for this program, please contact our enrollment team at onlineenrollment@uc.edu or (833) 556-8611 for assistance.
Prerequisites
- Earned Associate degree in MLT/CLT from a NAACLS accredited institution
- Equivalent education or experience, i.e. military MLTs, are highly encouraged to apply. Your enrollment advisor can help you navigate this part of the application process.
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Proof of ASCP, AAB or AMT CLT/MLT certification
- Conditional admission into the program is possible with proof of passing scores. Please contact your enrollment advisor to see if you qualify.
- Students are eligible to sit for certification within 5 years of graduating from their CLT/MLT program. UC Online can admit students without certification if they graduated more than 5 years ago. Please contact your enrollment advisor to see if you qualify.
Complete the online application and submit the application fee.
Standard Application Fees:
- $50.00 for domestic applicants to most degree programs
- $100.00 for international applicants to most degree programs
- Application fees for UC Online programs are waived through Summer 2026 for all applicants
- Fee waivers are automatically applied for applicants who:
- are currently serving in the US armed forces
- are veterans of the US armed forces
Applications are accepted continuously throughout the year. Our staff will review your application based on the following:
After submitting your application form, all applicants are required to have official transcripts sent directly to University of Cincinnati in order to be eligible for admissions review.
- First-Year and Transfer Applicants with Fewer Than 24 Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College:
- Order official transcripts from your high school and all prior colleges (if applicable) for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati.
- Transfer Applicants with 24+ Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College:
- Order official transcripts from all prior colleges for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati.
- You are exempt from the High School transcript requirement, this item will be removed from your application checklist once your college documents are received.
Please review the section below for guidance on how to submit your transcripts.
Online transcript request systems are the preferred method to deliver official transcripts electronically. To see if your transcript(s) can be ordered electronically, visit the links below and search for your previous school(s).
- Parchment
- Please select “University of Cincinnati – Main Campus” as the recipient of your transcript.
- National Student Clearinghouse
- Please have your transcript sent directly to admissions@uc.edu.
If you do not see your past school(s) listed on either site, please contact the school(s) directly to determine their ordering process.
If a physical copy must be sent, DO NOT request it be delivered to you. It must be sent directly from your prior school to the following address:
University of Cincinnati
Office of Admissions
PO Box 210091
Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0091
Proof of ASCP, AAB or AMT CLT/MLT certification.
PLEASE NOTE: Students are eligible to sit for certification within 5 years of graduating from their CLT/MLT program. UC Online can admit students without certification if they graduated more than 5 years ago.
Call your enrollment advisor at (833) 556-8611 to see if you qualify.
Two professional references required; one must be from a current lab supervisor. Reference forms are submitted via the application system.
In order to apply to the University of Cincinnati as a transfer student, learners must submit a transfer application form and have official transcripts sent directly to UC from all prior institutions they’ve attended.
To request these transcripts, please contact your previous institution’s registrar and ask them to send the official transcript to the University of Cincinnati via an approved electronic method such as Parchment, eScrip-Safe, National Student Clearinghouse, or similar services. This is the preferred method. If electronic submission isn’t available, transcripts may be mailed to the Office of Admissions at:
University of Cincinnati
Office of Admissions
PO Box 210091
Cincinnati, OH 45221
It is recommended to have the following:
- Intel i5 processor
- 8 GB RAM, 16 GB recommended
- Video Card
- Broadband Access (DSL/Cable/Fioptics)
- Sound card with internal or external speakers
- Web Camera with integrated microphone
- Printer or access to a printer
For additional technology requirements please visit the College of Allied Health Sciences Computer Requirements.
| Term | Application Deadline | Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
Summer 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027 |
March 15, 2026 July 15, 2026 November 15, 2026 |
May 11, 2026 August 24, 2026 January 11, 2027 |
The University of Cincinnati's online course fees differ depending on the program. On average, students will accrue fewer fees than students attending on-campus classes.
The one fee applied across all UC Online programs is the distance learning fee. Students living outside the state of Ohio must also pay an additional “non-resident” fee to enroll in courses at UC Online. This fee is lower than the out-of-state fee for traditional on-campus programs.
To view tuition information and program costs, visit the Online Program Fees page.
- The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- The University of Cincinnati Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS)
- 5600 N. River RD, Suite 720 Rosemont, Il 60018-5119 | Phone: 773.714.8880 | Email: info@naacls.org
Outcomes
Program outcomes are calculated following NAACLS guidelines and are based on students who began the second half of the program and graduated from the Bachelor of Science and certificate programs (online and campus-based).
| 2021-2022 | 2022-2023 | 2023-2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pass Rate* | 91% | 94% | 89% |
*Pass rates represent the percentage of students who graduated during the specified reporting period and who both attempted and passed the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification Exam within one year of their graduation date.
| 2021-2022 | 2022-2023 | 2023-2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduation Rate* | 79% | 83% | 90% |
*Graduation rates reflect the percentage of students who began the second half of the accredited program and have successfully graduated
| 2021-2022 | 2022-2023 | 2023-2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Placement Rate* | 99% | 100% | 99% |
*Placement rates reflect the percentage of graduates who either find employment in the field of medical laboratory science or a closely related field (for those who seek employment) or continue their education within one year of graduation.
Note: Data collection is ongoing for graduates in the July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025 reporting period. Results will be updated as new information is available and finalized after the 1-year post-graduation period ends in 2026.
“This degree has helped me tremendously, as soon as I graduated I was given a raise for becoming a MLS. The program was a perfect fit for my work-life balance. It was beneficial to have an online program that I was able to work on within my own timeframe.”
Sonny C.
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Alum
“I am really passionate about the lab, one could say I fell in love with the lab when I was working third shift as a phlebotomist. The clinical rotation requirement for this program helped me gain experience in departments I had not had experience in previously. ”
Michaela G.
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Alum
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