COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS) at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours for graduation and is designed to prepare students for professional careers in clinical laboratory science. The curriculum combines general education coursework, prerequisite science studies, and a rigorous professional curriculum that develops the knowledge and practical skills needed in modern medical laboratories. Students complete 34–35 credit hours of general education requirements and 28–31 credit hours of prerequisite science courses before entering the professional phase of the program. The professional curriculum consists of 54 credit hours and includes specialized training in key areas of laboratory medicine such as clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology, urinalysis, microbiology, laboratory management, and education. Courses are designed to provide both theoretical understanding and hands-on laboratory experience, ensuring students become proficient in performing diagnostic tests, analyzing specimens, maintaining laboratory quality standards, and supporting patient care through accurate laboratory results. A major component of the program is the extensive professional practice experience, which includes 17 weeks of clinical training in medical laboratories affiliated with Wichita State University. This supervised clinical experience allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real healthcare settings and gain valuable professional skills. The program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), demonstrating that it meets nationally recognized standards for laboratory science education. Upon successful completion of the degree, graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examination administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), a widely recognized credential that enhances employment opportunities and professional advancement. The curriculum includes advanced courses such as Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Hematology, Immunohematology, Clinical Microbiology, Applied Clinical Microbiology, Applied Immunohematology, Core Laboratory Practicum, Principles of Urinalysis, and Clinical Laboratory Management and Education. Through a combination of scientific knowledge, laboratory training, clinical practice, and professional certification preparation, the program equips graduates for high-demand careers in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research facilities, public health organizations, and other healthcare settings where accurate laboratory testing plays a critical role in patient diagnosis and treatment.