Beyond the Classroom: Biomedical Laboratory Science
Key Resources
Academic Advisors
Visit the NatSci Advising page for contact information and instructions for scheduling an appointment
Department Website
Visit the department website for important updates and information
Major Requirements
Visit the Office of the Registrar's website for detailed information about requirements
Designed to prepare students for careers in a variety of laboratory settings or to pursue graduate or advanced professional education. The clinical laboratory experience required for national certification as laboratory professional is not included in this program.
Skills and Competencies
- Laboratory Techniques – Proficiency in advanced laboratory techniques and methodologies relevant to clinical diagnostics, molecular diagnostics, and medical research
- Analytical Skills – Assess and solve problems related to laboratory processes and data interpretation
- Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics – Advanced clinical laboratory techniques, ensuring accurate and reliable diagnostic results in clinical and research settings
This Major Could Be For You If:
- You are interested in applying for the Medical Laboratory Science major as a junior or senior
- You are interested in understanding the mechanisms of diseases and their biochemical, molecular, and immunological aspects
- You want to know more about clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, molecular diagnostics, and immunohematology
Common Questions
Can I become a certified medical laboratory scientist immediately after graduating?
No. You will need to complete additional clinical laboratory experience and pass the certification exam. The program provides guidance on securing these clinical placements and prepares you for the experiences listed above.
Is there flexibility in choosing courses within this major?
Yes. Several concentrations such as Clinical Chemistry, Medical Microbiology, and Hematology and Hemostasis are offered. This allows students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.
Skill Development
Building your skills takes exploration and experience. These opportunities below are options you may be interested in. These are ideas to get you started; you have the freedom to find what aligns with your goals.
Research Opportunities
- Consider faculty-directed research or off-campus summer programs
- Connect with the Undergraduate Research Office for assistance
Work-Based Learning
- Develop professional skills through on- or off- campus work or internships with the help of the Career Services Network
- Gain experience through volunteer work via the Center for Community Engaged Learning
Career Growth
- Engage with NatSci’s Career Exploration workshops and resources
Campus Involvement
- Connect with other students in clubs like the Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics Program Student Association
Education Abroad Ideas
Molecular Biology Research in Dusseldorf
- 11 weeks | Summer
- Exchange
Arcadia Research Abroad (Various locations)
- 6-8 weeks | Summer
- Direct Enroll
To get started with Education Abroad and to explore other programs that suit your goals, check out the MSU Education Abroad website or visit the Education Abroad Advising Center.
Career Exploration
Career exploration is all about discovering the paths that align with your interests, personality, lifestyle, values and skills. Remember, your major doesn’t define your career, and the career cluster examples provided are just a starting point—not an exhaustive list. Explore widely, and keep an open mind as you shape your future!
Clinical & Medical Laboratory Careers
Careers
- Clinical Technician
- Histology Technician
- Phlebotomist
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Vascular Technologist
Research & Development
Careers
- Research Scientist
- Biological Scientist
- Laboratory Manager
- Molecular Biologist
- Quality Control Analyst
Public Health/Epidemiology
Careers
- Epidemiologist
- Public Health Laboratory Scientist
- Health Department Analyst
- Infection Control Specialist
- Environmental Health Specialist
Looking for more options?