MLS Program Overview

Faculty and staff of the Medical Laboratory Sciences department strive to prepare students as competent Medical Laboratory Science professionals as defined by the program's local and regional community of interest and by National Board credential examination matrices. Students are provided with a curriculum that addresses the evolving demands of technology and professional practice. Graduates are often involved in administrative, educational, supervisory or other leadership roles in the employment setting, and/or leadership positions in organizations.

Upon graduation, students will demonstrate:

  • The ability to comprehend, apply, and evaluate information relevant to the role of a Medical Laboratory Scientist.
  • The ability to demonstrate technical proficiency in all skills required to practice in the profession.
  • The ability to effectively communicate and interact with patients, physicians and other health professionals, in a manner consistent with employer standards

Key Program Features

  • Career advancement. Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT) with an associate degree can enter the program with advanced standing.
  • Prepare for graduate studies. This undergraduate degree is a springboard for graduate study in other health professions, such as Physician Assistant, Medical School and Pathology Assistant.
  • Clinical experience. Students complete clinical practice at one or more affiliated medical facilities located in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

Apply to the MLS Program

Program FAQ's

  • Entry Point. This program has a Fall and Spring program entry point.
  • Program Length. A condensed program length that is 17 months (12 month professional phase and 5 months clinical practice phase).
  • Study Plan Options. Students have flexible options such as full or part-time. However, all students must be full-time during the clinical practicum semester.
  • Application Deadline. The application deadline for Fall is March 15. The application deadline for Spring is October 15.
  • Class Size/Year. 45-50 students.
  • Acceptance Rate. 70-80% acceptance rate.
  • Minimum GPA. The minimum GPA to apply is 2.75 overall; 2:00 or above on all program prerequisite courses. (all pre-professional courses must be completed with a grade of 2.0 (C) or better and within the last 10 years). 
  • Health Insurance Requirement. All students are required to have health insurance coverage during enrollment in the professional program, but not required upon application.
  • Clinical Training Areas. Students gain experience across key lab areas such as hematology, microbiology, immunology, and clinical chemistry.
  • Work While Enrolled. Due to program intensity, full-time work is not recommended; limited part-time work may be possible depending on schedule.
  • Clinical Placement Locations. Clinical rotations are completed at affiliated hospitals and laboratories in the Wichita area.
  • Certification Eligibility. Graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams, such as the ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology).
  • Healthcare Experience. Prior healthcare experience is not required, but it can strengthen your application.
  • Skills for Success. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, time management, and communication skills are important for success.
  • Career Advancement. Graduates can pursue advancement into specialized roles, leadership positions, education, or laboratory management.