Considering a Gap Year – Consider IUSM Medical Laboratory Science Program!
Nearly every critical decision in healthcare is informed by high quality laboratory data provided by Medical Laboratory Scientists. Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) are detectives that work behind the scenes in healthcare where they perform numerous high complexity laboratory tests to inform clinical decision making. The field of Medical Laboratory Science is diverse and offers opportunities for all science majors who desire hands-on experiences while also seeking the personal fulfillment of serving others as a healthcare professional.
The following are a few scenarios illustrating some common areas where our graduates work. MLS in Clinical Microbiology Laboratories work diligently to identify the bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that make patients sick. MLS in Molecular Diagnostics Laboratories work with cutting-edge technology to detect COVID-19, MRSA, and antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. In Hematology Laboratories, MLS serve a vital role in detecting and classifying leukemias, lymphomas, and many varieties of anemia. In Clinical Chemistry Laboratories, MLS determine if and when a patient had a heart attack, if a patient has diabetes, and whether prescribed medications are within the therapeutic range. In Immunohematology Laboratories, MLS crossmatch lifesaving units of blood and plasma for trauma and cancer patients. Beyond the clinical laboratories mentioned above, many graduates also perform research and support at biomedical innovation centers such as Roche Diagnostics or Eli Lilly.
The Medical Laboratory Science program located within the IU School of Medicine in Indianapolis is a bachelors degree program available to all students within the IU system. This professional program is 11-months long and is typically taken by students during their 4th or 5th year of their first bachelors degree (3+1) or as 2nd bachelors degree (4+1). The program is also popular among students pursuing a gap-year before professional school. The Medical Laboratory Science has a rich history dating back to the 1940’s. For the past 30+ years the Clinical Laboratory Science Program has been one of the highest performing programs in the country with 100% graduation rate, 100% first-time pass rate on the national board exam, and 100% employment or acceptance into graduate or professional school. Most of our graduates have job offers before graduation earning between $25-$35/hr. Many students earn additional shift differentials and sign-on bonuses of $3,000-$10,000.
Anyone interested in the Medical Laboratory Science Program should review our website and email our admissions team at clsinfo@iupui.edu. The program has a fall start date.
