Medical Laboratory Science FAQ’s
1.
How long will it take to complete the UCCS MLS program from Summer Lab to the end of
clinicals?
It takes 11 months to complete the UCCS MLS program.
2.
Do I have to attend Summer Lab in Kearney, Nebraska?
Yes, Summer Lab is mandatory-no exceptions.
3.
Do I receive the 43 credits for the program from University of Nebraska Medical Center
(UNMC) or from University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS)?
UCCS awards the 43 credits upon successful completion of the program and UNMC provides the
online curriculum in Blackboard.
4.
What are the areas of study during the year of clinicals?
Hematology
Chemistry
Immunohematology (blood bank)
Laboratory Management
Microbiology
Molecular Diagnostics
Phlebotomy
Urinalysis
5.
If I have taken courses at a community college, how many credits will transfer for this
program?
Students who have completed their BA degree are required to have successful completion of 77
semester hours (116 quarter hours) at an accredited college or university. Only 60 semester
hours can be accepted from a community college; 17 semester hours must be completed at a 4year regionally accredited college or university. The 77 semester hours are found on our website
www.uccs.edu/mls under the Prerequisites link.
6.
What is the application deadline for the MLS Program?
The priority deadline is November 30 each year and the final deadline is January 14. Applicants
submitting an application after the priority deadline will only be considered on a space available
basis.
7.
If I am a UCCS 3+1 student, do I still need to apply for the clinical year?
Yes, all students must go through the application process for the clinical year.
8.
If I am a UCCS 3+1 student, am I guaranteed acceptance or placement at a clinical site
once I apply?
No, students are not guaranteed acceptance or placement for the clinical year.
9. Is a laptop computer required for this program?
Yes, all classes are taken online on Blackboard so all students are required to have a laptop
computer.
10. What are some suggested elective courses?
Physiology and Molecular Biology is strongly recommended. Additional recommended subjects
include Cell Biology, Introduction to Hematology, Pathogenic Microbiology, and Parasitology.
11. What are the advantages to completing the MLS degree or certificate?
According to US News and World Report, Medical Laboratory Science is one of the top healthcare
professions for 2014. They predict this field will balloon 29.7% by 2022 adding 47,900 more
professionals to the 325,800 jobs currently in this field.