Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science), BAS
Advance beyond bench-level testing. Build expertise in laboratory operations, quality management, leadership and emerging technologies to prepare for supervisory and specialized roles.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
Any math course that meets the MATH designation.
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.
Accreditation and professional licensure
This program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clin...
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Degree description
Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science), BAS degree description
The Bachelor of Applied Science degree program with a concentration in medical laboratory sciences enables you to perform analytical tests on blood, tissue and body fluids in order to provide laboratory information for the detection, diagnosis and treatment of human diseases.
You learn to work independently using skills and knowledge that are greater in depth and breadth compared with those of medical laboratory technicians, who are typically graduates of a two-year or community college program. Receiving a BAS in medical laboratory science is possible through two distinct pathways: the online professional program or the Phoenix College partnership with ASU. Either way, you are eligible to sit for a national certification examination for MLS credentials.
Online professional program
The traditional medical laboratory science program coursework is offered 100% online if you're currently working as a medical laboratory technician in the field. The program has one start date per year in fall and may be completed in two years. You're required to have existing employment in a laboratory setting, with permission from your employer to perform practical assignments at work. You're responsible for identifying and obtaining laboratory placement as well as completing necessary affiliation agreement requirements.
Phoenix College partnership program
The Phoenix College partnership pathway is offered both in person at Phoenix College and via asynchronous coursework. You can gain admission to this program through a competitive application process. Once admitted, you complete your laboratory practicums through ASU contracted sites.
Recent program outcomes include:
In 2023, the program had a graduation rate of 100%, a certification exam pass rate of 82%, and a job placement rate of 94%.
In 2024, the program had a graduation rate of 100%, a certification exam pass rate of 79%, and a job placement rate of 94%.
In 2025, the program had a graduation rate of 100%, a certification exam pass rate of 75%, and a job placement rate of 90%.
Why specialize in medical laboratory science at ASU?
As part of the College of Health Solutions, you explore broader health care systems, interdisciplinary collaboration and health innovation concepts that reach past traditional laboratory science education. This systems-level perspective helps you grasp the growing role laboratory professionals play in improving patient care and strengthening organizational performance.
Courses
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.
If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.
See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Analyze patient specimens in the area of immunohematology/antibody identification using various testing procedures
- Will adhere to laboratory protocols in the clinical chemistry area to identify proper quality control and patient values.
- Identify the clinical significance of various microbiology culture results with accurate patient workups and result reporting.
Analyze patient specimens in the area of immunohematology/antibody identification using various testing proceduresAdmission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
Online professional program *The medical terminology prerequisite may be waived for those with a previous degree in a science concentration or experience in the medical field. Applicants to the online program are encouraged to submit their application by July 15 to ensure adequate time for review prior to the start of the term. Phoenix College partnership program Applications for the immersion program are accepted between July and September. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications by September 1.
Applicants must show evidence of the following criteria in order to be admitted to this pathway:
Students who have been admitted through Phoenix College and who have completed the prerequisite coursework, verified by the program director or program advisor, are eligible to apply to this program. The following requirements are a part of the application process and are included in the separate program application, which is released to those who are considered eligible during a specified application cycle:
Jeff Wolz - PC/ASU MDL Program
HE Building #359
1202 W Thomas Rd
Phoenix AZ 85013
Application deadlines
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 09/01 | Priority* |
| Session A/C | Online | 07/15 | Priority* |
*A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed and on a space-available basis. An application is complete after all materials are received by Admission Services.
Current ASU students who wish to change their major must meet the admission requirements for the program. Interested students should consult with their academic advisor to review eligibility, prerequisite coursework and the application process for either the online professional program or the Phoenix College partnership program.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, applied science students are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimate
Build the career and future you want
Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
| Career | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laboratory Technologist | 2.7% | $62,930 | Learn more |
| Medical Scientist | 12.6% | $103,410 | Learn more |
| Microbiologist | 6.2% | $87,990 | Learn more |
Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
More about careers
Careers this medical laboratory science concentration prepares you for
Graduates are prepared for advanced employment opportunities within the fields of medical technology, cytology, clinical laboratory science and related areas.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
School of Clinical Health Sciences
|
HLTHN 401AA
chs@asu.edu
602-496-3300
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
