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Medical Laboratory Science Handbook

Introduction

The American Society of Clinical Laboratory Science defines clinical laboratory science professionals as vital healthcare detectives, uncovering and providing laboratory information from laboratory analyses that assist physicians in patient diagnosis and treatment, as well as in disease monitoring or prevention (maintenance of health). Clinical laboratory science (CLS) professionals generate accurate laboratory data that are needed to aid in detecting cancer, heart attacks, diabetes, infectious mononucleosis, and identification of bacteria or viruses that cause infections, as well as in detecting drugs of abuse. In addition, they monitor testing quality and consult with other members of the healthcare team. Laboratory testing encompasses such disciplines as clinical chemistry, hematology, immunology, immunohematology, microbiology, and molecular biology. US News and World Report has listed careers in the clinical laboratory in the top 100 careers of 2020 due to an increased need for qualified professionals and good starting salaries

Accreditation statement

The option in clinical laboratory science is an integrated program, accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 5600 N. River Rd, Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119.

Telephone: 847-939-3597 or 773-714-8880.
Email: INFO@naacls.org

Medical Laboratory Program contacts

Faculty and staff

Michelle Lovelidge
Administrative Assistant
Telephone: 508-999-8329
Fax: 508-999-8418
Office: Dion 216B

Frank Scarano, PhD, MLT(ASCP)MCM
Chairperson, Professor
Telephone: 508-999-9239

Faculty

David Cabral, MBA, MLS(ASCP)CMSHCM
Assistant Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-999-8329

Sarah Frade, MS
Departmental Technician
Telephone: 508-910-8242

Elizabeth Hart, MA, MLS(ASCP)CM
Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-999-8331

Ali Hasaba, PhD, MLS(ASCP)CMSHCM
Associate Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-910-6870

Kristen Kelley, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM
Assistant Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-999-8328

James March Mistler, PhD, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM
Program Director, Associate Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-999-8944

Caterina Miraglia, DC, MLS(ASCP)CM
Associate Professor
Telephone: 508-999-8944

Yun (Melody) O’Donnell, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM
Program Manager, Associate Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-910-6494

Kimberly Ouellette, MAT, MLS(ASCP)SBBCM
Associate Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-999-8213

Carmen Pierce, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM
Assistant Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-910-6591

Nathan Rubien, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM
Associate Teaching Professor
Telephone: 508-999-8786

Mission statement

In accordance with the mission statements of the University system and UMass Dartmouth campus and standards of the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science, the Department of Medical Laboratory Science perceives its mission to be the education of professional clinical laboratory scientists, cytotechnologists, biotechnologists, and health care practitioners as defined by the following attributes:

  • Ability to relate knowledge and skills to other fields of endeavor
  • Competency in the chosen practice area
  • Ability to appropriately communicate orally and/or in writing with scientists, health care professionals, and the patient public
  • Development of a broad understanding of the issues that underscore the imperatives of our times
  • Commitment to lifelong learning and professional competence
  • Development of professionalism.

Goals

The Department goals for students focus on education in their specified discipline or option plus those that

  1. help students identify their personal goals and development with a sense of self-worth, self- confidence, and capacity to have an impact on events in their lives,
  2. involve students in professional organizations and activities that support their personal development,
  3. develop students’ scholarly and intellectual capacities to the fullest and instill in them a permanent commitment to learning,
  4. interrelate subject matter throughout their academic career, and
  5. raise the students’ awareness of their role as competent, ethical, and caring healthcare practitioners.
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Diversity, equity, and inclusion statement

The College of Nursing & Health Sciences and the entire UMass Dartmouth community are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The college is committed to a welcoming and respectful community where all students, faculty, and staff feel valued and accepted. It is vital to our educational mission and professional preparation that our classroom and workplace environment build and maintain civility and respect for all. The College is also committed to social justice, reducing health disparities, and educating culturally competent health professionals who will work in an increasingly multicultural society.

The College of Nursing & Health Sciences will continue to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion within our chosen healthcare professions, amongst our student body, and within society at large.

Outcomes measures

Please refer to the department website for the most current outcome data.

Results from national certification examinations

The certification examination for graduates from the Clinical Laboratory Science program is the Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) examination offered by the Board of Certification (American Society for Clinical Pathology). The pass rate for graduates who have taken the exam within one year following graduation:

  • CLS Class of 2021: 100% Pass Rate (National pass rate was 69%)
  • CLS Class of 2022: 93% Pass Rate (National pass rate was 69%)
  • CLS Class of 2023: 88% Pass Rate (National pass rate was 69%)

Graduation/attrition rates

  • CLS Class of 2022: 100% (with a 0% attrition rate)
  • CLS Class of 2023: 100% (with a 0% attrition rate)
  • CLS Class of 2024: 100% (with a 0% attrition rate)

Employment success rates

For students that graduate and either obtained a job or continued education within one year of graduation:

  • CLS Class of 2022: 100% placement
  • CLS Class of 2023: 100% placement
  • CLS Class of 2024: 100% placement
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Learning outcomes

After completion of this program, the graduate will be able to demonstrate entry- level competence providing quality patient care in the following areas of professional practice:

  • Satisfactory scientific content in major disciplines: clinical biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, genetics, hematology, hemostasis, statistics, phlebotomy, urinalysis/body fluids, and molecular diagnostics.
  • Collecting and processing biological specimens for analysis.
  • Performing analytical tests on body fluids, cells, and other samples.
  • Make critical judgments by integrating and relating data generated by the various clinical laboratory departments.
  • Evaluating quality control, instituting corrective procedures, and developing a quality assurance plan.
  • Performing preventive and corrective maintenance on equipment and instruments or referring to appropriate sources to repair.
  • Evaluating new techniques and procedures for their applicability to a given laboratory.
  • Demonstrating concern for patients and cooperating with laboratory personnel and other healthcare professionals.
  • Communicating effectively and professionally with patients, laboratory personnel, other health care professionals and the public.
  • Applying principles of safety, management and supervision, governmental regulations and standards related to laboratory practice.
  • Being familiar with education methodologies, current information systems, and research methodology.
  • Interpret clinical data as it relates to patient diagnosis and treatment.
  • Assess critical pathways and perform outcome analyses.

Recommendations for success in the CLS Program

The MLS program at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth is a rigorous academic program. It is important for students to know that many of their previous study habits such as straight memorization of facts, studying only for recognition of the answer on a multiple-choice exam, or studying the night before an exam will not allow for the successful progression and completion of the MLS program. Students must truly learn the content of each course and apply it to the situations presented during exams. All MLS courses are integrated in content, meaning that information in one course may be applied to others because the field of laboratory medicine in also integrated. Recommendations to help you succeed in the program:

  • Read and review course content daily – do not study just for the exams.
  • Review course materials thoroughly prior to class discussions or lab exercises.
  • Study to analyze, interpret, and problem solve.
  • Understand that by design you may not be able to find the answer directly written in your notes or textbook – this field is about analysis and critical evaluation of information.
  • Use the course objectives to guide your study and to critically assess your learning.
  • Do not fall behind - each class will continue to layer information from week to week.
  •  Communicate questions or areas needing clarification early to your instructor.
  • Limit work hours as much as possible.
  • Get enough sleep and eat properly.
  • Remember that the instructors’ goal is to help you learn and succeed - seek their help, and do not wait until the last minute.
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Essential functions

In addition to the previously stated academic requirements, admission to the upper division of the option in clinical laboratory science also requires evidence that the student is able to meet the following non-academic criteria (essential functions or technical standards).

  1. Observation. The student must be able to participate actively in laboratory exercises and clinical experiences. In particular, the CLS student must be able to:
    • Participate actively and independently in laboratory and clinical exercises.
    • Use the microscope to identify structures, cells, and organisms.
    • Recognize and distinguish text, numbers and graphics in print and on monitor screens.
    • Complete forms and enter computer data.
    • Inspect specimens and reagents for suitability.
    • Operate analytical instruments appropriately and safely.
  2. Communication. The student must be able to communicate with fellow students, faculty, staff and members of a healthcare team. In particular, the CLS student must be able to:
    • Independently and effectively report, discuss, or explain the results of laboratory tests in English to classmates, faculty, laboratory personnel, physicians and other healthcare providers.
    • Read and comprehend technical and professional materials written in English.
    • Follow verbal or written instructions given in English in order to perform laboratory test procedures correctly, either independently or as part of a team.
    • Converse with patients and/or the public regarding laboratory tests or instructions for specimen collection in an effective, confidential, and sensitive manner.
    • Communicate appropriately and in a timely manner with faculty, students, staff, and health professionals.
  3. Motor skills. The student must have sufficient motor skills to independently perform basic diagnostic tests and meet minimum affiliate standards. In particular, the CLS student must be able to:
    • Obtain, manipulate and measure specimens safely and with precision.
    • Manipulate reagents, materials, instruments, computers, and analytical equipment according to established procedures and standards, safely and with speed, accuracy, and precision.
    • Move safely about the laboratory.
    • Reach laboratory bench tops and shelves.
    • Reach patients lying in hospital beds or seated for purposes of collection specimens.
    • Perform moderately taxing continuous physical and mental work, often requiring prolonged sitting or standing, over an eight-to-ten-hour period.
    • Lift and move objects weighing up to 10 pounds on a regular basis.
    • Hold, manipulate and control laboratory equipment (i.e., pipettes, inoculating loops, phlebotomy needles) to collect blood specimens and perform laboratory procedures.
  4. Intellectual/Conceptual, Integrative and Quantitative Abilities. The student must be able to problem solve and comprehend spatial relationships of structure. In particular, the CLS student must be able to:
    • Possess and use the following intellectual skills: comprehension, measurement, mathematical calculation, reasoning, integration, analysis, and comparison.
    • Exercise sufficient judgment to recognize and correct deviations from acceptable performance.
    • Receive and implement constructive criticism appropriately.
    • Evaluate the performance of peers, tactfully offering constructive comments.
  5. Behavioral. The student must have the ability to interact appropriately in a professional manner with fellow students, faculty, staff and members of a healthcare team and demonstrate honesty and integrity by adherence to MLS, UMassD and affiliate facility code of conduct and academic honesty policies. In particular the CLS student must be able to:
    • Manage the use of time and prioritize actions in order to complete tasks within realistic constraints.
    • Possess the necessary emotional health to exercise good judgment and demonstrate honesty, compassion, integrity, tolerance, responsibility and ethical behavior.
    • Exercise good judgment in responding to stressful and emergency situations with patients or peers.
    • Be flexible and creative in adapting to professional and technical change.
    • Recognize potentially hazardous materials, equipment, and situations and proceed in a manner designed to minimize risk of injury to self and nearby personnel.
    • Adapt to working with unpleasant biological materials or reagents.
    • Support and promote the activities of colleagues, adopting a team approach to learning, task completion, problem solving and patient care.

Summary of the Clinical Laboratory Science Curriculum

Freshman year, Fall semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 115 Fundamentals of Medical Laboratory Science 1
MLS 116 Fundamentals of Medical Laboratory Science Techniques 1
CHM 151 Principles of Modern Chemistry I 3
CHM 161 Introduction to Applied Chemistry I 1
ENL 101 Critical Reading and Writing I 3
varies University Studies 6
Total credits   15

Freshman year, Spring semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 121 Human Genetics 3
MLS 122 Human Genetics Laboratory 1
CHM 152 Principles of Modern Chemistry II 3
CHM 162 Introduction to Applied Chemistry II 1
MTH 147 Fundamentals of Statistics 3
ENL 102 Critical Reading and Writing II 3
varies University Studies 3
Total credits   17

Sophomore year, Fall semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 211 Fundamentals of Human Physiology 4
CHM 251 Organic Chemistry I 3
CHM 263 Bio-organic Chemistry Laboratory I 1
varies University Studies 6
Total credits   14

Sophomore year, Spring semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 221 Human Genetics 3
MLS 222 Human Genetics Laboratory 1
MLS 241 Principles of Modern Chemistry II 3
MLS 242 Introduction to Applied Chemistry II 1
varies University Studies/free elective 6
Total credits   14

Junior year, Fall semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 301 Principles of Microbiology 4
MLS 303 Principles of Microbiology Laboratory 1
MLS 325 Clinical Immunobiology 3
MLS 326 Clinical Immunobiology Laboratory 1
varies University Studies/free elective 3
Total credits   12

Junior year, Spring semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 313 Medical Microbiology 3
MLS 314 Medical Microbiology Laboratory 1
MLS 331 Fundamentals of Clinical Hematology 3
MLS 332 Fundamentals of Clinical Hematology Laboratory 1
MLS 341 Clinical Chemistry in Diagnostic Techniques 3
MLS 342 Clinical Instrumental Analysis Laboratory 1
varies University Studies 3
Total credits   15

Senior year, Fall semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 401 Clinical Microbiology I 5
MLS 421 Immunohematology I 3
MLS 443 Clinical Biochemistry I 5
MLS 431 Hematology I 3
Total credits   16

Senior year, Spring semester

Course # Course name Credits
MLS 411 Clinical Microbiology II 3
MLS 422 Immunohematology II 3
MLS 426 Phlebotomy & Urinalysis 2
MLS 444 Clinical Biochemistry II 3
MLS 432 Hematology II 3
MLS 450 Senior Seminar 3
Total credits   17

The total number of credits required for a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Science with an option in Clinical Laboratory Science is 120.

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University Studies requirements

Cluster 1: Foundations for Engagement in the 21st Century

Course # Course name
ENL 101 1a Writing and Reading
ENL 102 1b Writing and Reading
ENL 264 1c Intermediate Writing
MTH 147 1d Mathematics
MLS 115 1e Engagement

Cluster 2: Science

Course # Course name
MLS 211 2a Natural Science
MLS 313 2b Science in the Engaged Comm.

Cluster 3: The Cultural World

Course name Credits
3a Literature 3
3b Visual & Performing Arts 3

Cluster 4: Social World

Course name Credits
4a Human Questions & Contexts (PHL 215) 3
4b Nature of US Society 3
4c Nature of Global Society 3

Cluster 5: UMassD Experience

Course # Course name
MLS 450 5a Capstone
MLS 450 5b Engagement

The UMassD student handbook further defines rules and regulations governing student conduct, policies and procedures, including those related to grievances and complaints, including those related to Title IX, plus many other campus resources and expectations.

Admission criteria

University Admissions requirements

For information about applying to the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.

See undergraduate requirements

Internal transfer policy

Any UMass Dartmouth student who wishes to change their major to the Medical Laboratory Science CLS option must have at least a 2.5 overall GPA or a 2.5 GPA in the chemistry sequence (CHM 151, 152, 161, 162), where space allows.

In addition to UMassD admission criteria, applicants to the DNP program options in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences must:

  • Have achieved a GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate and/or graduate study.
  • Hold a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from a program accredited by the NLNAC or CCNE.
  • Registered Nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a related field may seek admission through the GAP program.
  • Registered Nurses with a master's degree and current certification as an advanced practice nurse from an accredited program may apply to the Post-Masters DNP (MS-DNP) program
  • Registered Nurses with a master’s or doctoral degree may apply to the CAGS program.

Registered nurses with a master’s or doctoral degree without current certification as an advanced practice nurse may apply to the CAGS program if they have successfully completed the equivalent of NUR 550, NUR 552 and NUR 553 from an accredited program (accepted at the discretion of the DNP Admissions Committee upon transcript review.)

  • Students who must complete patient-facing clinical hours (BS-DNP and CAGS) must hold a current license to practice professional nursing in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maine, Vermont or New Hampshire.
  • Post-Masters DNP students must hold a current NP license in the United States.
    • Students are required to check with their state board of nursing. Students must hold a license in the state where they will be completing their clinical Practicum.
  • Submit two references that document competence and leadership in professional Nursing practice. If possible, one reference should be from a supervisor who is a professional nurse who holds a graduate degree, and one should be from a nurse educator.
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Progression process

Grade requirements for MLS Programs

  1. The minimal acceptable grade in all MLS classes is a C- (70). Less than a C-(70) will be treated as a class failure even though university credits may be earned.
  2. For purposes of progression only, please refer to the pre-requisite list.
  3. All department, college, and university requirements other than MLS 400 level classes, must be satisfactorily completed PRIOR to entering the senior year. If they are not complete, the student is not eligible for senior year courses.
  4. During the senior year, a less than C- (70) in one course makes a student ineligible to take the others as they are co-requisites.
  5. A third enrollment to achieve C-(70) or better will not be granted.
  6. The student must also achieve a minimum 2.0 GPA every semester in MLS Department required courses.

Failure to achieve the minimum will result in:

  • 1st instance <2.0 = warning
  • 2nd instance <2.0 = probation
  • 3rd instance<2.0 = dismissal from the MLS major

Committee on Advanced Standing and Progression

The Committee on Advanced Standing (CAS)

The CAS will be composed of the Program Director, sophomore class advisor(s), junior class advisor(s), and senior class advisor(s). The CAS will have two roles:

  • to assess students’ academics for entry into upper division MLS courses and
  • to evaluate appeals and make final decisions for dismissals.
  1. Assessing MLS student academics for entry into upper division MLS courses
    1. The advisors will prepare a list of their students to be presented to the committee.
    2. The Committee will meet at the end of the spring semester and review the academic record of each student presented. Ordinarily, students completing sophomore level courses are evaluated but any student not previously accepted into upper division (junior year) will be evaluated. Possible recommendations include acceptance to the upper division, conditional acceptance to the upper division (compliance with the terms of the conditions will be monitored by the junior class advisor at the end of each semester), continuation as a sophomore (with reevaluation by this committee 1 year later), and dismissal from the MLS program.
    3. A letter containing the Committee’s decision will be prepared by the Program Director for each student, as appropriate. The student will receive both a printed (postal mail) and an electronic (mail) copy of the letter with instructions to sign and return it to the Program Director. The signed letter will be placed in the student’s permanent file.
    4. Class advisors will monitor the progress of their students who were conditionally accepted. If a student is found to be noncompliant with the CAS recommendations, the advisor will inform the Department Chairperson and Program Director. Any non-compliant student will be dismissed from the major unless there are sufficient openings in the upper division classes. Repeat of courses is allowed only where there is sufficient enrollment space once those taking it for the first time have been registered.
  2. 2. To evaluate appeals and make final decisions for Department grade appeals and dismissals.
    1. Right to Appeal a Course Grade: A student has the right to appeal a final course grade. Refer to the grade appeal policy in the academic regulations section of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth General Catalogue.
    2. Right to Appeal a Dismissal Decision: An MLS student who has been dismissed from the MLS department or the University based on academic performance, and believes they meet the criteria for appeal of a dismissal decision, may submit an application for appeal review.
    3. The CAS will meet at the closure of Fall and Spring semesters (as needed) and apply standards for reviewing appeal of dismissal applications. The CAS will make a recommendation to the MLS Chair (for MLS department appeals) and/or the CNHS Dean (for university appeals) regarding the student’s dismissal appeal. The MLS Chair / CNHS Dean will make the final decision regarding reinstatement, respectively. The MLS department will then notify the student of the appeal decision electronically and by postal mail.
    4. Reinstatement to the MLS Department is considered on an individual basis.
    5. Procedure for all Undergraduate MLS Students’ Appeal of Dismissal
      1. MLS students will receive a letter notifying them of dismissal based on unsatisfactory academic performance. A student who has been dismissed from the MLS department or the university and has extenuating circumstances that affected academic performance may submit an application for appeal of dismissal.
      2. The student’s Application for Appeal should include the following:
        • A typed letter by the student addressed to CAS that includes:
        • A statement requesting consideration for reinstatement.
        • An explanation of the reason(s) the student feels contributed to poor academic success.
        • A plan of intention describing what the student will do differently if allowed to continue in the MLS program.
        • A completed MLS appeals form submitted by faculty of course(s) in which the student has received an unsatisfactory grade according to the MLS standards.
        • Supporting documents must be included with the letter.
    6. Deadlines for Submission of Appeal Documentation
      1. All appeal application documents must be submitted to the CAS. The deadline for submitting appeal documents is identified in the  dismissal notification letter. Meeting the deadline is essential to a timely appeal process. The date and time of email submission will be considered the postmark of submission. An appeal application and documentation postmarked after the deadline date will not be considered. If the appeal deadline is not met, an updated appeal application can be submitted for the following appeal cycle.

Note: Extenuating circumstances that prevent the student from meeting submission deadline will be considered on a case-to-case basis (e.g. hospitalization). The date and time of email submission will be considered the postmark of submission.

Note: If a student is dismissed from the MLS department or the University and is granted reinstatement following an appeal, the student will progress in the MLS program only as space is available. Failure to complete the MLS courses in sequence jeopardizes the student’s standard progression through the MLS major. Additional time in the MLS undergraduate program may be needed.

Note: A student may appeal only once during their undergraduate career in the UMass Dartmouth College of Nursing and Health Sciences.

Note: Reinstated students will be required to meet the curriculum program plan and the grade requirements of the new graduation cohort they have joined.

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Courses for calculation of the MLS Semester GPA

1st semester

  • MLS 115
  • MLS 116
  • CHM 151
  • CHM 161

2nd semester

  • MLS 121
  • MLS 122
  • CHM 151
  • CHM 162
  • MTH 147

3rd semester

  • MLS 211
  • CHM 251
  • CHM 263

4th semester

  • MLS 221
  • MLS 222
  • MLS 241
  • MLS 242

5th semester

  • MLS 301
  • MLS 303
  • MLS 325
  • MLS 326

6th semester

  • MLS 313
  • MLS 314
  • MLS 331
  • MLS 332
  • MLS 341
  • MLS 342

7th semester

  • MLS 401
  • MLS 421
  • MLS 431
  • MLS 443

8th semester

  • MLS 411
  • MLS 422
  • MLS 426
  • MLS 432
  • MLS 444
  • MLS 450

Department of Medical Laboratory Science Grading Criteria

Letter grade Quality points Number equivalent
A+ 4.0 97+
A 4.0 94-96
A- 3.7 90-93
B+ 3.3 87-89
B 3.0 84-86
B- 2.7 80-83
C+ 2.3 77-79
C 2.0 74-76
C- 1.7 70-73
D+ 1.3 67-69
D 1.0 64-66
D- 0.7 60-63

The passing grade for all practicals is a 70.

For grades 0.5 or greater; the grade will be rounded up to the next highest whole number; lower than 0.5 will be rounded down. For example: a 59.4 would be a 59 and not 60, but a 59.5 would be rounded up to a 60.

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MLS Prerequisites & corequisites

Course Prerequisites Corequisites
MLS 121 MLS 116 No corequisites
MLS 122 MLS 116 MLS 121 (or prerequisite)
MLS 211 MLS 121 No corequisites
MLS 221
  • MLS 121
  • MLS 211
 MLS 122
MLS 222
  • MLS 116
  • MLS 122 (or co-req MLS 122)
 MLS 221
MLS 241
  • CHM 152
  • CHM 162
  • MLS 211
 MLS 242
MLS 242
  • CHM 152
  • CHM 162
  • MLS 211
 MLS 241
MLS 301
  • MLS 241
  • MLS 221
 MLS 303
MLS 303
  • MLS 222
  • MLS 242
 MLS 301
MLS 313 MLS 301 MLS 314
MLS 314 MLS 303 MLS 313
MLS 325
  • MLS 221
  • MLS 222
 MLS 326
MLS 326 MLS 222 MLS 325
MLS 331 MLS 221 MLS 332
MLS 332 MLS 222 MLS 331
MLS 341
  • MLS 241
  • MLS 301
  • MLS 325
 MLS 342
MLS 342
  • MLS 242
  • MLS 303
  • MLS 326
 MLS 341
MLS 401
  • MLS 313
  • MLS 314
  • MLS 331
  • MLS 332
  • MLS 341
  • MLS 342*
  • MLS 421
  • MLS 431
  • MLS 443
MLS 421
  • MLS 313
  • MLS 314
  • MLS 331
  • MLS 332
  • MLS 341
  • MLS 342*
  • MLS 401
  • MLS 431
  • MLS 443

 
MLS 431
  • MLS 313
  • MLS 314
  • MLS 331
  • MLS 332
  • MLS 341
  • MLS 342*
  • MLS 401
  • MLS 421
  • MLS 443
MLS 443
  • MLS 313
  • MLS 314
  • MLS 331
  • MLS 332
  • MLS 341
  • MLS 342*
  • MLS 401
  • MLS 421
  • MLS 431
MLS 450
  • MLS 401
  • MLS 421
  • MLS 431
  • MLS 443
  • MLS 411
  • MLS 422
  • MLS 426
  • MLS 432
  • MLS 444

*See page 15, note #3

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Academic integrity

Unacceptable student conduct is described in both the University student handbook as well as the general catalog. A reprint of this information is also available from any MLS faculty member. Students found guilty of academic dishonesty are subject to severe disciplinary action, which may include expulsion from the university. You are referred to the Student Judicial Code for due process in such a situation. In addition to the specific instances described in these documents, (plagiarism and Code of Responsible Computing), the MLS faculty reaffirm the University academic honesty standards and also consider the following as incidences of academic dishonesty:

  1. Copying answers to study questions or other assignments from any source (the answer key, another student’s answers, textbook, study companion, reference book, etc.) is considered plagiarism.
  2. Substituting another student’s answers for your own on an examination, quiz, or laboratory exercise. This includes modifying your laboratory results to meet a perceived outcome or fit into a desired range.
  3. Obtaining, in advance, copies or information of any kind regarding examinations, quizzes, or laboratory exercises including information from students in other sections. The MLS faculty supports the learning process by providing students with instructional objectives to use as study guides. Review sessions prior to a test are routinely scheduled, when requested, for all MLS required courses. An individual needing additional assistance for better topic understanding should make an appointment with the appropriate instructor.

UMass Student Association for Medical Laboratory Science

Founded in the mid 1960s, this organization has been continuously active on the campus with meetings and social events in the local constituent chapter of the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS: Central New England), the Regional chapter of ASCLS (ASCLS: Region I which includes New York and New England), and the national organization itself.

UMass Dartmouth students account for more than half of all Student Presidents of ASCLS:CNE, which is approximately one third of all Student Representatives for Region I and is proud to have eight ASCLS National Student Forum Chairs and Vice Chairs. No other program in the country comes close to this level of leadership activities. Students attend state and local scientific meetings, compete in poster session contests, and lobby
state and federal legislators on behalf of patient care and quality clinical laboratory science. The club has monthly meetings, some of which are specific to each class year. Pot- luck lunches and suppers are a noted specialty!

The club maintains its own Facebook page for easy communications and the alumni maintain their own Facebook page, which allows for classmates to keep up to date on each other's activities and networking for both full time and part time employment opportunities.

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Laboratory coat, calculator, and computer requirements

Lab coat

To best meet the safety requirements from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for protecting individuals from health risks associated with chemical and biological exposures in the clinical lab environment, the Department of Medical Laboratory Science agrees that all lab coats used within the department shall comply with these minimum standards.

  • Mid-calf length or longer
  • Elastic cuffs
  • Full length closure such as buttons, snaps, or Velcro
  • Whole garment or front panel 80%/20% polyester/cotton or 100% polyester
  • White

These coats are generally only found at uniform shops specializing in healthcare garments. The Department of Medical Laboratory Science has established a working relationship with our campus store where you may seek assistance in ordering and choosing the correct size.

UMass Dartmouth Campus Store
MacLean Campus Center
UMass Dartmouth
(508) 999-8190

Please be sure that you mention that you are a student in the Department of Medical Laboratory Science. Most sizes are usually in stock, but you should allow 3 to 4 weeks for special orders or if out of stock.

Calculator

  • Sharp Scientific Calculator (approximately $6.00)
  • Model # EL-501XBWH
  • Model # EL-501X
  • Model # EL-501W

Minimum computer specifications

Apple laptop:

  • Operating system: 10.14X
  • Processor: Core i5
  • Memory/RAM: 8GB
  • Hard drive: 256GB
  • Built-in webcam or external HD webcam

Windows laptop:

  • Operating system: 32-bit and 64-bit versions Windows 10
  • Processor: Intel Core i5
  • memory/RAM: 8GB
  • Hard drive: 256GB
  • Build-in webcam or external HD webcam
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Senior year

Professional attire/dress code

The UMass Dartmouth Medical Laboratory Science Department is a safe and welcoming place. We respect differences and embrace diversity. We demonstrate a professional commitment to maintain safety in the clinical setting.

Students who would like to request an exemption to any part of the policy as an accommodation due to religious belief, disability or other reason should contact the Program Director.

Yes

  • Business professional or business casual
  • Wrinkle-free and clean
  • Practical and safe fit for laboratory work
  • Clothing that covers legs and feet
  • Safe jewelry and piercings for laboratory work

No

  • Holes, tears or see-through
  • Sandals, open-toed shoes
  • Graphics, typography or large logos
  • Hooded tops
  • Perfume or fragranced grooming products
  • Long nails that may pierce gloves
  • Brimmed hats
  • Visible undergarments
  • Sweatpants, cargo pants, shorts, capris
  • Denim

Tops

All tops must cover shoulders, armpits and mid-section

Bottoms

  • Skirts and dresses may be worn if leggings or nylons are worn underneath
  • Socks or hosiery must be worn
  • Neat and no tears

Footwear

  • Footwear must cover the top of the foot with a closed heel and toe
  • Footwear must have flat, non-slip outsoles

Hair

Long hair must be tied back and kept away from the face in the laboratory.

Fees & expenses

Clothing

See “Dress Code for Seniors in the Department of Medical Laboratory Science” for details.

Laboratory supplies

  • Permanent markers
  • Pipet bulbs
  • Scientific Calculator and Laboratory Coats (see Laboratory Coats, Calculator, and Computer Requirements section)

Travel

Students are required to provide their own transportation to their clinical practicum senior year.

Students should determine cost of travel (gas, vehicle upkeep, public transportation, miles driven, etc.) as well as parking fees, as needed. See “Clinical Rotation Requirement”.

  1. Examples:
    1. a. UMassD to Providence: 30 miles; UMassD to Boston: 60 miles; UMassD to Springfield: 112 miles.
  2. See MBTA for schedules and fares and directions of purchase of the Charlie Card for travel into and around Boston, South Shore, MetroWest, and the Northshore.

Professional fees

  1. Certification exam: Board of Certification ($240.00)
    www.ascp.org/Board-of-Certification
  2. Licensure fees: variable by state.
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Criminal background check

Prior to the start of the clinical practicum, all students will be required to have a criminal background check performed, including a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) will be performed. The CORI searches records at a local (i.e., Commonwealth of Massachusetts) level. CORI's are conducted by a third-party outside agency at a cost of $99.00 to the student. The results of criminal background checks are reported to the Program Director and are handled confidentially, on a "need to know" basis. The Program Director will share any substantial results with the student, as needed. In accordance with our contracts, substantial results may also will be shared with the clinical site to which the student is assigned; the affiliate will make a determination about a student's eligibility. If you have any questions about this, please contact the MLS Program Director.

Immunization policy

Prior to the start of the clinical practicum, all students are required to meet immunization requirements as mandated for students in health-related fields by the assigned affiliate, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and/or the Department of Health.

The student is required to document current immune status for Hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus/diphtheria, polio, flu, and COVID-19. In addition, the student is required to show results of a tuberculin skin test. In general, the information must be obtained from the student's primary care physician. Verifying immune status may require laboratory testing and vaccinations. The student is responsible for all costs. The Program Director or Program Manager will provide the appropriate form and a detailed list of requirements to the student at the completion of the junior year of study. The completed forms with documentation materials are submitted to the Program Manager and are handled confidentially. The information is released to the individual student's affiliate only with the student's written permission.

Immunization documents are handled by an outside agency at a cost of $35.00 to the student.

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Clinical rotation requirement

All CLS seniors are required to participate in clinical rotations. The means and costs of transportation, as well as any living expenses or costs for relocation are the student's responsibility.

Clinical rotation placement

At the completion of their junior year, all eligible juniors will participate in a placement interview. The Program Director and the Program Manager conduct the placement interview. The purpose of the interview is to determine the student's preference for placement during the clinical  practicum and to gather other pertinent information that might be useful in determining the actual placement. The placement decisions are made by the Program Director and Program Manager, with input from the MLS faculty. Every effort is made to get this information to the student during the summer prior to the beginning of the senior year of study, however, this may not be guaranteed. Participating in the interview process does not automatically ensure that the student will be a senior or will complete the senior year. Before the placement is official, the student must successfully complete the academic course of study.

Students will be scheduled for clinical rotations at one or more of the program's current clinical sites. If the clinical site cancels a student’s scheduled clinical rotation, the Program Director will attempt to reschedule that rotation at another clinical site. In the unlikely event that the clinical rotation cannot be scheduled at one of the current clinical sites, the Program Director will either re-schedule the rotation for a subsequent
semester at an existing clinical site or establish a new clinical site. An unexpected change in clinical site availability may affect the date that a student can finish the program but will not affect the student's ability to complete all the required clinical rotations. If a student fails to satisfactorily complete a course associated with a clinical placement, a repeat placement must wait until a vacancy becomes available.

Students are responsible to fulfill all the regulatory requirements of the clinical affiliate to which they are assigned, which may or may not include demonstrating proof of malpractice insurance coverage, providing health record documentation, undergoing a CORI screen, drug testing, and updating immunization status.

Affiliates

  • Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA
  • Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center- Boston, MA
  • Beth Israel Deaconess- Milton, Milton, MA
  • Beth Israel Deaconess- Plymouth, Plymouth, MA
  • Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA
  • Boston Healthcare VA System, W. Roxbury, MA
  • Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA
  • Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, MA
  • Cape Cod Healthcare System, Hyannis, MA
  • Care New England- Kent Memorial Hospital, Warwick, RI
  • Care New England- Women & Infants Hospital, Providence, RI
  • Charlton Memorial Hospital, Fall River, MA
  • Cooley Dickinson Health Care- A Massachusetts General Hospital Affiliate, Northampton, MA
  • Dartmouth – Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH
  • Good Samaritan’s Medical Center, Brockton MA
  • Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, MA
  • Milford Regional Medical Center, Milford, MA
  • Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI
  • Morton Hospital A Steward Family Hospital, Taunton, MA
  • New England Baptist Hospital, Boston, MA
  • Norwood Hospital A Steward Family Hospital, Norwood, MA
  • Providence VA Medical Center, VISN-1, Providence, RI
  • Signature Healthcare System (Brockton Hospital), Brockton, MA
  • South Shore Hospital, South Weymouth, MA
  • St. Anne’s Hospital, Fall River, MA
  • St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, Brighton, MA
  • St. Luke’s Hospital, New Bedford, MA
  • Sturdy Memorial Hospital, Attleboro, MA
  • Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
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Clinical schedules

During the senior year, classes are scheduled in block style. Students take one course at a time for a stipulated period. Both the fall semester on-campus and the spring clinical practicum courses are scheduled using this format. For planning purposes, students should expect to be "in class" for 8 hours each school day. In general, activities (lectures, lab exercises, etc.) are associated with in class time. Students are expected to utilize outside of class time for studying and completion of assignments. Because of the stressors associated with the time constraints, students are strongly encouraged to refrain from working during the entire senior year, but particularly during the clinical practicum.

Student service work

In general, students are not assigned to clinical sites where they have had prior work experience. Students may not perform paid or unpaid service work during assigned academic hours of the clinical practicum. Students may obtain paid positions during their discretionary time. Qualified students may hold work-study positions, providing the hours of employment do not conflict with required academic hours. Students shall not sign (or initial) out work or verify results on a computerized system. This includes using their own name or code or that of a hospital employee. This statement should not prohibit a student from performing tests or working with instruments. The Department faculty recognizes the importance of hands-on experience so long as that experience occurs under appropriate supervision. The responsibility for the test results must remain with the instructor since this individual is employed by the affiliate.

Students who have graduated from a phlebotomy program must provide a copy of their certificate to the Program Director and are exempt from the phlebotomy rotation.

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Senior Clinical Practicum Attendance Policy

General comments

  1. Each student is given a clinical rotation schedule prior to the start of the clinical practicum. It is expected that students will make every effort to be present on all assigned days.
  2. The exact starting and ending times vary from hospital to hospital and department to department. These times will be given to the student during the hospital orientation. The schedule cannot be altered in any way without prior approval from the Clinical Liaison in consultation with the Program Director/Program Manager.
  3. Students will be required to sign in and out regardless of the policy for employees within the clinical laboratory. The sign-in sheet will be maintained by the student and will be uploaded to each clinical course website at the end of each rotation.
  4. Students are entitled to the same number and length of breaks as prescribed by hospital policy. This policy will be explained during the hospital orientation. In general, the student should plan to go on break and to lunch at the same time as the instructor to whom the student has been assigned on a given day.
  5. Students are to treat all persons with whom they have contact, respectfully. Any individual, regardless of credentials, may be appointed as an instructor. Assignments are made because the Clinical Education Coordinator and the Rotation Supervisor believe that individual is best able to provide the student with certain experiences necessary for the development of a competent professional Medical Laboratory Scientist.

Absenteeism

Definition: An absence is defined as one day lost for any reason.

  1. Students are required to notify the Rotation Supervisor, Clinical Education Coordinator, and their Practicum Site Visitor (University Faculty) on each day absent. Failure to do so will result in loss of a letter grade for each offense during that particular rotation.
  2. Students who are absent 2 or more days within a rotation (for any reason outside of weather-related issues*) shall lose a full letter grade for that rotation. Failure to achieve the stated learning objectives may result in a course failure and the need to repeat the rotation, as time and space allows.

*Weather related issues consist only of those that are university or hospital approved. For instance, issues with transportation during inclement weather are not acceptable.

Tardiness

Because your instructors expect you to be available to begin Phlebotomy or to be in your scheduled departments so that work can begin,  lateness is considered a major offense. Students are required to notify the Rotation Supervisor in the event of tardiness. Upon arrival at the hospital, the student will leave a message for the Clinical Education Coordinator giving a reason for the tardiness. The Clinical Education Coordinator will document the incident on the attendance sheet. The completed sheet will be given to the Practicum Coordinator and placed in the student’s file. A copy will be given to the student. For the first incident, the student will be issued a verbal warning. Following the second incident, the student will be issued a second verbal warning. For the third and subsequent incidents, the student’s grade for the rotation where
the lateness occurs will decrease by a full letter grade.

Professional meetings

Should a student desire to attend the annual meeting sponsored by CLS/CNE, the change in schedule must be discussed and approved by both the Rotation Supervisor and the Clinical Education Coordinator. Since it is felt that attendance of this meeting is part of your educational experience, the time lost will not have to be made up unless it is part of the Urinalysis or Serology rotations or another rotation where the learning objectives may not be met due to absenteeism.

Request for time off

  1. Any request for time off will be made directly to the Clinical Education Coordinator. It will be that person’s responsibility to discuss such requests with the appropriate Rotation Supervisor and to maintain a record of all such requests. If necessary, the Clinical Education Coordinator
    will consult with the Practicum Coordinator to determine the validity of the request.
  2. In general, such time off will be granted for such things as attending educational seminars, family/personal emergencies, funerals, etc. In general, requests for such things as vacations, visit with family or friends visiting from out of town, working at another job, doctor, or dental
    appointments, etc., will not be approved.
  3. Requests for time off should be kept to a minimum. In the event the learning objectives have not been met, additional rotation time may be required to satisfactorily repeat a course where time and space allows.

Bereavement policy

Bereavement leave will be extended to students who have lost a husband, wife, parent, spouse’s parent, sibling, sister or brother-in-law, stepchild, grandparent or person living in their immediate household. A copy of the obituary with the student’s name and relation to the deceased will be sufficient evidence.

Making up lost time

  1. All time lost (see section “Professional Meetings”) shall be made up when the loss impacts on the ability of the student to complete the learning objectives.
  2. Within one week of the day the student returns to the laboratory, the student, together with the Rotation Supervisor and the Clinical Education Coordinator, will arrange a schedule to make up time lost.
  3. Students will make up the time in the department in which the days were originally missed.
  4. In general, students find it easiest to make up time lost at the end of the scheduled Clinical Practicum. However, in the past, some students have arranged to make up some of the time on second or third shifts and/or weekends. Any such arrangement is acceptable to the university so long as prior approval has been received from the Rotation Supervisor and the Clinical Education Coordinator. Any time, which cannot be made up prior to the start of MLS 450, will have to be made up at the completion of this course.

Snow and Inclement Weather Policy

If the classes at UMass Dartmouth are officially canceled due to inclement weather and/or the University is closed, the students attending clinical rotations will not be required to report to their clinical site. The Program Director and/or Students will notify the appropriate Clinical Liaison and/or hospital staff that classes have been canceled/school is closed. Students shall make up lost time, as needed.

UMass Dartmouth may cancel classes/close after students have already arrived at their respective hospitals for their rotation. When this occurs, students should remain at their clinical site for their rotation, if it is safe to do so. In the event that classes are canceled/the university is closed but it is safe for students to travel to and from their clinical site, students may attend their rotation. The student must communicate this with the
Program Director/Practicum Coordinator and the Clinical Liaison/appropriate hospital staff.

The safety of all students, faculty and staff is the priority. If there are unsafe conditions in the area of the clinical site but the university is opened, students shall not be required to attend their clinical rotation.

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Clinical practicum performance evaluation and grading

Evaluation during the clinical practicum courses takes a variety of forms. In general, academic material will be evaluated by means of examinations designed to access students’ overall attainment of theory and development of skills. In addition, at the completion of each rotation, clinical faculty will evaluate the performance of each student while in that department. This evaluation is divided into three sections and
serves to evaluate the student with respect the following.

  1. Overall technical skills, to include, but not limited to, manual dexterity; speed; power of observation; accuracy; compliance with safety procedures; organization; discrimination.
  2. Application of theory to technical skills, to include, but not limited to, problem solving, respect for and operation of instruments and equipment.
  3. Personal characteristics, to include, but not limited to, courtesy, punctuality, ability to function in stressful situations, interactions on telephone, ability to function with peers and others, professional ethics, confidentiality, utilization of chain of command, performance of
    minimum/maximum work.

University faculty review the individual student's performance evaluation, convert the results into a numerical grade using a rubric designed by the faculty, and incorporates the grade into the overall final grade for the course. The percentage of the final grade represented by the performance evaluation is the purview of the faculty and will be included in the course syllabus.

Finishing your degree, certification and license

Senior capstone

Each senior is required to research and present one (1) case study. This case study fulfills the university capstone requirement. Seniors are assigned a case study during their hospital clinical rotation. The student has access to the assigned patient’s medical chart including demographics, history, physical exam findings, laboratory data, imaging data, other relevant testing, and the patient’s diagnosis. Students are expected to correlate exam findings, laboratory data and imaging data to the patient’s condition/diagnosis. Research is done on the particular condition. There are a wide variety of diagnoses ranging from musculoskeletal diseases, visceral diseases, infectious diseases, etc. The case study is presented as a research document. Areas of content must include abstract, learning objectives, abbreviations, case presentation, past medical
history, pathogenesis, relevant laboratory/imaging/other data, discussion, treatment and prognosis, case conclusion, and references. References will be cited in International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) format. Oral presentations are given to the senior class and department faculty upon the student’s return to campus in the spring.

Selection of a case

In consultation with the Clinical Liaison and/or designated laboratory staff, and faculty advisors, the student will be assigned a case study during the first month of their clinical rotation. The primary focus of the case will reflect the particular discipline that the student was assigned. The major disciplines include hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, and immunohematology. However, the case must also
require investigation of laboratory data from a minimum of two other disciplines.

Case study advisor

Once the case study is selected, a case study advisor from the University faculty will be assigned to the student. Determination of the particular advisor will depend on the primary focus of the case study. The role of the case study advisor is to help the student identify the issues that must be addressed in preparing the report and meet the deadlines associated with the preparation of the case study report.

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Graduation

  1. To register for graduation, students must complete the “Intent to Graduate” form by March 1. This form is available in the Registrar’s Office.
  2. Notification concerning cap and gowns will be mailed by the bookstore directly to the student.
  3. Please note earning the B.S. degree in Clinical Laboratory Science is dependent only upon successfully meeting all university, college, and departmental requirements. Earning the BS degree is independent of passing the certification examination. Conversely, successfully earning the degree does not guarantee passing the certification examination. Students are encouraged to take the certification examination as soon as possible following graduation.

Post graduation

Certification

Graduates from the CLS Program of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth are eligible to take the national examination for certification as medical laboratory scientists. The American Society of Clinical Pathology’s Board of Certification (BOC) conducts the examination. Most employers require certification for employment. Application forms, certification examination eligibility requirements, examination content guidelines, and practice tests are available online.

American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP)
Board of Certification (BOC)
33 W. Monroe St., Suite 1600
Chicago, IL 60603-5617
(312) 541-4999
1-800-257-2727

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Licensure

Students are eligible for certification nationally, but UMassD has not determined eligibility for individual state licensure as of yet. This information is forthcoming; however, students are notified of this at orientation and at the start of the MLS program. Some states require licensure for those who wish to practice in the field of Clinical Laboratory Science, and licenses are issued to qualifying persons. To obtain a license, states require that the individual has passed the national certification examination, and some states require that the exam is provided from a particular certifying agency. Some states also require additional conditions that must be met in order to be licensed. Those considering employment in a state should contact that State Department of Health for further information. States that currently have licensure laws include California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, New York, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico.

Professional organizations

American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)
1861 International Drive, Suite 200
McLean, VA 22102 (571)-748-3770 | Email ascls@ascls.org

American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
33 West Monroe Street, Suite 1600
Chicago, IL 60603

For those with specialized interests:

American Society for Microbiology (ASM)
1752 N Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20036-2904
(202) 737-3600

AABB
2024-2025 CLS Student Handbook 36
8101 Glenbrook Road
Bethesda, MD 20814-2749
Phone: +1.301.907.6977
Fax: +1.301.907.6895
Email: aabb@aabb.org

American Society of Hematology (ASH)
2021 L Street NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20036 Phone 202-776-0544

Association of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine (Formerly AACC)
1850 K Street, NW Suite 625
Washington, DC 20006
Phone: (800) 892-1400

ASCLS Pledge to the Profession

As a Medical Laboratory Professional, I pledge to uphold my duty to Patients, the Profession and Society by:

  • Placing patients’ welfare above my own needs and desires.
  • Ensuring that each patient receives care that is safe, effective, efficient, timely, equitable and patient-centered.
  • Maintaining the dignity and respect for my profession.
  • Promoting the advancement of my profession.
  • Ensuring collegial relationships within the clinical laboratory and with other patient care providers.
  • Improving access to laboratory services.
  • Promoting equitable distribution of healthcare resources.
  • Complying with laws and regulations and protecting patients from others’ incompetent or illegal practice
  • Changing conditions where necessary to advance the best interests of patients.
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ASCLS Code of Ethics

Preamble

The Code of Ethics of the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science sets forth the principles and standards by which Medical Laboratory Professionals and students admitted to professional education programs practice their profession.

I. Duty to the patient

Medical Laboratory Professionals’ primary duty is to the patient, placing the welfare of the patient above their own needs and desires and ensuring that each patient receives the highest quality of care according to current standards of practice. High quality laboratory services are safe, effective, efficient, timely, equitable, and patient-centered. Medical Laboratory Professionals work with all patients and all patient samples without regard to disease state, ethnicity, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Medical Laboratory Professionals
prevent and avoid conflicts of interest that undermine the best interests of patients.

Medical Laboratory Professionals are accountable for the quality and integrity of the laboratory services they provide. This obligation includes maintaining the highest level of individual competence as patient needs change yet practicing within the limits of their level of practice. Medical Laboratory Professionals exercise sound judgment in all aspects of laboratory services they provide. Furthermore, Medical Laboratory Professionals safeguard patients from others’ incompetent or illegal practice through identification and
appropriate reporting of instances where the integrity and high quality of laboratory services have been breached.

Medical Laboratory Professionals maintain strict confidentiality of patient information and test results. They safeguard the dignity and privacy of patients and provide accurate information to patients and other health care professionals. Medical Laboratory Professionals respect patients’ rights to make decisions regarding their own medical care.

II. Duty to colleagues and the profession

Medical Laboratory Professionals uphold the dignity and respect of the profession and maintain a reputation of honesty, integrity, competence, and reliability. Medical Laboratory Professionals contribute to the advancement of the profession by improving and disseminating the body of knowledge, adopting scientific advances that benefit the patient, maintaining high standards of practice and education, and seeking fair socioeconomic working conditions for members of the profession.

Medical Laboratory Professionals accept the responsibility to establish the qualifications for entry to the profession, to implement those qualifications through participation in licensing and certification programs, to uphold those qualifications in hiring practices, and to recruit and educate students in accredited programs to achieve those qualifications.

Medical Laboratory Professionals establish cooperative, honest, and respectful working relationships within the clinical laboratory and with all members of the healthcare team with the primary objective of ensuring a high standard of care for the patients they serve.

III. Duty to society

As practitioners of an autonomous profession, Medical Laboratory Professionals have the responsibility to contribute from their sphere of professional competence to the general wellbeing of society. Medical Laboratory Professionals serve as patient advocates. They apply their expertise to improve patient healthcare outcomes by eliminating barriers to access to laboratory services and promoting equitable distribution of healthcare resources.

Medical Laboratory Professionals comply with relevant laws and regulations pertaining to the practice of Clinical Laboratory Science and actively seek, to change those laws and regulations that do not meet the high standards of care and practice.

Possible careers

Medical Laboratory Science graduates can travel down any number of career paths: working in hospital or physician’s labs, in specialty laboratories such as those that deal with cancer treatment, in fields such as molecular biology and toxicology, in blood banks, in medical research, in the public health agencies that track diseases and viruses, and in many other paths. Many of our students go on to graduate studies in areas such as medicine, public health, and hospital laboratory management, while others do sales or marketing for medical and pharmaceutical firms.

Alumni from UMass Dartmouth’s Department of Medical Laboratory Science currently hold the following positions. Graduates of similar programs throughout the state, region and the nation enter similar careers

  • Staff Clinical Laboratory Scientist
  • Clinical Hematologist
  • Clinical Toxicologist
  • Coagulation Specialist
  • Medical Bacteriologist
  • Microbiology Supervisor
  • Immunohematology Supervisor
  • Public Health Microbiologist
  • Public Health Mycologist
  • Point of Care Supervisor
  • Diagnostic Services Manager
  • Research Associate (many areas)
  • Medical Products Manufacturer
  • Laboratory Information Services
  • Computer Services Director
  • College Professor
  • Biomedical Engineer
  • Health Care Paraprofessional
  • Patent Attorney
  • Ambulatory Care Outreach Coordinator
  • Infectious Disease Physician (MD)
  • Family Medicine Physician (MD)
  • On-Board Medical Diagnostics Specialist
  • Science Teacher (Elementary or High School)
  • Infection Control Specialist
  • Public Health Virologist
  • Quality Control Specialist
  • Hospital Information Services Director
  • Industrial Design Engineer
  • Medical Equipment Engineer
  • Health Care Attorney
  • Corporate Vice President
  • Hospital Systems Group President
  • On-Board Diagnostics Services Director
  • Health Care Legislative Assistant
  • Emergency Medicine Technician (EMT)
  • Physician Assistant (Primary Care, Dermatology, Psychiatry)
  • Anesthesiologist (MD)
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Surgeon (MD)
  • Cardiologist (MD)
  • Pediatrician (MD)
  • Obstetrician (DO)
  • Chiropractor
  • Acupuncturist
  • Hospital President
  • Military Science
  • Clinical Microbiologist
  • Clinical Chemist
  • Clinical Virologist
  • Clinical Mycologist
  • Research Director
  • Specialist in Blood Banking
  • Chemistry Supervisor
  • Laboratory Manager
  • Public Health Inspector
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