Medical Laboratory Science: Second Degree & Certificate Programs

About the Medical Laboratory Science Second Degree and Certificate Programs

The Medical Laboratory Science Program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers both a second bachelor’s degree and a clinical laboratory science certificate program in an online hybrid format combining distance education with on site laboratory sessions. Both the second degree and certificate options are accredited 12-month programs for students who have completed a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited university and who now wish to obtain a second bachelor’s degree in medical lab science or acquire additional training to work in the field of medical laboratory science.

Each program combines online lectures and instructional material with a six-day laboratory session conducted on-site at the end of each of the first two semesters. For either program, you will be required to complete a clinical preceptorship in an affiliated laboratory.

While the coursework for both programs is the same, the prerequisite requirements for the clinical laboratory science post-baccalaureate certificate and the second degree bachelor’s programs are different. Please review carefully the prerequisites for each program prior to applying. You may apply to more than one program and you will be considered for the program for which you meet the requirements.

The Second Degree and Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science programs are accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

NAACLS
5600 N. River Road, Suite 720
Rosemont, IL 60018
Phone: 733-714-8880
Fax: 733-714-8886

For complete information about prerequisites and other program requirements, please visit the program admissions page.

The Second Degree and Certificate Curriculum

The curriculum of both the TTUHSC MLS Second Degree and Certificate Program consists of 35 hours of academic education combining online class instruction and on site laboratory experience. Classes include:

• Clinical Immunology
• Foundations of Clinical Microbiology
• Clinical Laboratory Practice
• Principles of Molecular Diagnostics
• Advanced Microbiology

The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) has been approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state oversight of postsecondary distance education.

Explore our curriculum and research and on-site laboratory requirements.

Medical Laboratory Science Certification

When you successfully complete the requirements of either the second degree or certificate in clinical laboratory science you are eligible to sit for the national Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) certification examination administered by the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification.

Outcomes (2022-2024)

*Outcomes report is based on NAACLS standard II.B requirement

"The online MLS program at TTUHSC changed my life! While investigating career options, I found the MLS online program at TTUHSC. The program was challenging and there were times, despite my determination and commitment, that I was sure I wasn’t going to be up to the task; but the instructors were so great at their subjects and so invested in my success, that they got me through every challenge and past every doubt. The quality of education I received from this program ensured that I was confident and impressive in my local job market. I received multiple job offers at graduation and chose a great spot for me. I feel secure in my bright future with this exciting new career, thanks to the great education I’ve received. I can’t thank everyone involved with the program enough, for helping me find my way to a job I love."

Whitney Stoller

  Medical Laboratory Science, Online