Medical laboratory science students go beyond the textbook: They get extensive hands-on training with microscopes, computers and complex lab equipment that simulates the work they'll do in their careers.
Medical laboratory scientists examine and analyze body fluids, tissues and cells to identify bacteria, parasites and other microorganisms. They also analyze the chemical constituents of body fluids, crossmatch donor blood for transfusions and test blood for drug levels to measure the efficacy of treatments. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Medical laboratory science students rotate through specialties like microbiology, chemistry, blood banking and more while working with partners that include Froedtert Health, Children's Wisconsin and Ascension. (UWM Photo/Pete Amland)
Medical laboratory science students work with expert faculty members with connections to clinics, laboratories, professional organizations and research centers on and off campus. They also train alongside students in other health disciplines, helping them build a more robust educational foundation. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Do you ever wonder who’s behind the test results that help clinicians detect, diagnose and treat illness?
That’s the role of medical laboratory scientists — medical professionals who combine science, technology and critical thinking to keep health care running smoothly. In the U.S., medical laboratory scientists perform around 14 billion laboratory tests each year that help inform nearly 70% of all medical decisions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
At UWM, students interested in becoming a medical laboratory professional can pursue a degree in biomedical sciences that focuses on medical laboratory science. The program, accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, is the only medical lab science program at a major research university in Wisconsin.
