Overview
Medical Laboratory Technologists conduct sophisticated diagnostic tests on blood, body fluids and tissues to provide important information used in detecting illness and monitoring health. They enjoy rewarding careers where they use their skills to; measure chemical components in blood and body fluids, detect diseases in blood cells, perform blood typing and cross-matching for blood transfusion, detect and identify infections caused by bacteria and fungi, and prepare surgical and autopsy tissues for analysis. Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) represent one of the largest groups of professionals in health care.
The final year of the program occurs inside the laboratories of partner hospitals and private institutions and is arranged by the College. Students are expected to finance clinical placement costs (tuition, travel, room and board). The start date and location for third-year placement are determined by the program and clinical site requirements. Locations may include Kingston Health Sciences, Brockville General Hospital (rotations at Kingston Health Sciences Centre), Quinte Healthcare (Belleville Site), Mount Sinai Hospital, LifeLabs (Belleville site, rotations at Quite Health Care), Eastern Ontario Regional Laboratory Association (EORLA) Ottawa sites including The Ottawa Hospitals (Civic, General, and Riverside Campuses) with possible rotations at Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), The Montfort (Hospital), Queensway Carleton Hospital, Kemptville District Hospital, Sick Kids (Toronto), Grand River/St. Mary’s Hospitals in Kitchener, Peterborough Regional Health Centre, and Stratford General Hospital.
Graduates are eligible to write the general certificate exams of the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science. To practice in Ontario, graduates of the program must meet strict requirements established by their regulator – the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario (CMLTO).
For more information on a career as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) please visit the following sites:
Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS)
College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario (CMLTO)
Medical Laboratory Professionals' Association of Ontario (MLPAO)
This allied health program is accredited by:
Program Details
Program Highlights
Quick Facts about the Medical Laboratory Science Program at St. Lawrence College
For prospective students, written with input from current students!
- Getting your immunization status checked, recorded, and sent to the College's Health Centre prior to the first semester is crucial to ensure that you can attend laboratory classes and ultimately the clinical labs. This program is training you for a profession in which your exposure to dangerous materials, samples, and infectious agents is higher than in many other professions.
- You will take blood and have your blood is taken (unless you physically are unable to do so) in this program.
- You must make a continuance grade in all core courses (theory and labs) to continue in the program. The continuance grade is 63%.
- The program is preparing you to become part of a regulated health profession and is academically challenging; time management skills are necessary!
- Some students find the workload prohibits them from working while going to school.
- Laboratory attendance is mandatory.
- Problem-solving, critical thinking, and math skills are a big part of the program!
- Transfer credits are processed prior to first semester start via the College's website under the tab Transfer Credits and Exemption at SLC. There is an administrative fee involved due to the need to check course outlines, and transcripts and ensure graduation requirements.
- You will have multiple assessments including comprehensive exams and practical “hands-on” assessments throughout the program to ensure the retention of material and ensure national competencies are met. Current students write a comprehensive exam for all clinical subjects at the end of the second year. Students also write clinical discipline exams throughout placement. Students also can expect to write a pre-certification exam at the end of the program to prepare them for the national certification exam.
- This is a competency-based program which means the curriculum is based on the national standards (CSMLS) for entry-level general medical laboratory technologists (MLTs).
- Students are responsible for arranging and paying for their own certification exams.
- Placement is not paid and is not a co-op. You pay tuition and the costs of living in your placement area.
- Your police check, CPR, and First Aid must be in for placement so the best time to do this is the fourth semester, right before your clinical placement.
- Clinical placement is two semesters in duration and consists of the entire third year of the program. You may be placed anywhere in Ontario and placement is by random draw. The program arranges placement so that the necessary competencies are met. The program works collaboratively with sites in the scheduling of student rotations and start dates.
- The use of email and program resources such as the Blackboard Learning Platform is essential to good communication while in the program.
- There is no "fast track" for university students/other post-secondary programs; credits may be transferable but it will take three years to complete the program if you start in the first semester.
Program Outline
Note: Medical Laboratory Science (K0134) and Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician (K0734) programs share a common first year of courses.
2024-2025
This integrated laboratory-theory course introduces students to the principles and techniques of specimen collection and microscopy in the medical laboratory science field. Students will learn how to handle blood and other body fluids and tissues for diagnostic testing. Students will also learn how to use bright field microscopy to examine different cell and tissue types. This course integrates theory and applied components and emphasizes the development of professional behaviours and safety standards.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical histology laboratory. This course introduces students to the principles, theory and application of the techniques and mechanisms involved in staining routine tissue sections and the special stains used to demonstrate connective tissue elements, carbohydrates, pigments, minerals, microorganisms, and lipids.
This theory course provides an overview of the Medical Laboratory profession and the Canadian healthcare system. Students will gain an understanding of the Quality Management and Safety Legislation that governs laboratory operations and patient care. Additionally, students will examine the historical and current trends and issues in healthcare.
This integrated laboratory-theory course will teach the student how to use and handle various laboratory equipment and materials safely and properly. This course provides the student with the theory knowledge and essential applied skills required for the safe practice and complexities of clinical laboratory work.
This theory course provides students with communication skills needed in the healthcare field. Students will develop active listening skills, overcome communication barriers, and produce professional-quality reports and correspondence using basic medical/scientific vocabulary. Students will also develop interprofessional skills and gain an understanding of the roles, responsibilities, and challenges of different healthcare professionals from the lens of laboratory professionals.
This theory course covers the essential skills and knowledge for students to perform calculations, measurements, and data analysis in the laboratory. The course integrates topics from mathematics, chemistry, statistics, and instrumentation, with a focus on their practical applications in medical laboratory settings.
This integrated laboratory-theory course introduces students to the principles and applications of clinical chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. It covers the basic theoretical concepts and applications that underlie the practice of clinical chemistry. Students will gain knowledge of skills and methods necessary to prepare them for working in a clinical chemistry laboratory.
This integrated laboratory-theory course introduces students to immunological concepts and the blood system. Students will learn about the mechanisms of self-recognition, antigen-antibody reactions, and complement activation. Students will acquire practical skills in using immunological methodologies and principles. Students will gain knowledge of skills and methods necessary to prepare them for working in a transfusion laboratory.
This integrated laboratory-theory course covers the fundamentals of EKG and anatomical pathology lab skills. Students will learn about the heart's structure, function, and electrical activity, as well as how to perform and interpret EKG tests. Students will also learn about the preparation and examination of tissue specimens for histological analysis. The course emphasizes the importance of professionalism, patient education, informed consent, confidentiality, and ethics in both settings.
This integrated laboratory-theory course introduces students to the study of blood and its cellular components. It covers the basic theoretical concepts and applications that underlie the practice of clinical hematology. Students will gain knowledge of skills and methods necessary to prepare them for working in a clinical hematology laboratory.
This integrated laboratory-theory course covers the skills and knowledge needed to collect blood samples by venipuncture and capillary methods. Students will also learn how to receive, accession, and assess the integrity of various body fluids and tissues for diagnostic testing. Students will build upon their knowledge from Laboratory Skills 1 to follow laboratory safety rules and comply with relevant laws and professional standards.
This integrated laboratory-lecture course introduces students to the methods, safety protocols, and aseptic techniques required in clinical microbiology. Students will gain the knowledge to classify and understand the physiology and identification of bacteria at an introductory level. Practical skills developed encompass the isolation, staining, culturing, and sterilization/disinfection methods related to common pathogenic microorganisms encountered in clinical microbiology.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical chemistry laboratory. Students will apply their critical thinking and investigative skills to understand the relationship between the biomolecules in urine, blood and other body fluids and their role in disease diagnosis.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical hematology laboratory. Students will learn about the formation and breakdown of blood cells and tissues, and how to identify normal and abnormal blood cell morphology and other hematology parameters. The course also examines the hemostatic system, including coagulation mechanisms and disorders.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical histology laboratory. Students will learn how to prepare tissue samples for microscopic examination using various techniques such as fixation, decalcification, processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical microbiology laboratory. Students will study aerobic bacteriology and follow proper safety protocols for a level 2 containment laboratory. Students will use their critical thinking & investigative skills to link the results of microbiological tests with clinical conditions and scenarios.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical transfusion laboratory. Students will study genetics and immunology as related to blood group immunology and blood group systems for pre-transfusion testing. Also included will be the methods, practical experience and equipment needed to gain a full understanding of a transfusion laboratory.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical chemistry laboratory. Quality Control, the major organ systems, immunoassay, toxicology and homeostasis will be critically examined.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical hematology laboratory. Important blood diseases and associated laboratory findings will be studied in detail.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical histology laboratory. This course introduces students to the principles, theory and application of the techniques and mechanisms involved in staining routine tissue sections and the special stains used to demonstrate connective tissue elements, carbohydrates, pigments, minerals, microorganisms, and lipids.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical microbiology laboratory. This course introduces antimicrobial susceptibility testing, anaerobic bacteriology, mycology, and virology. Students will expand their critical thinking and investigative skills to make connections between the isolation/detection of microorganisms in clinical specimens and health and disease.
This integrated laboratory-theory course’s material is reflective of the CSMLS competencies found in the clinical transfusion laboratory. This course introduces students to the study of genetics and immunology as related to blood group immunology, blood groups, hemolytic disease, transfusion practices, blood components including compatibility testing and donor requirements. Also included will be the methods, practical experiences and equipment needed to gain a full understanding of the transfusion laboratory.
Under supervision, within the clinical laboratory setting, students in this course will efficiently, accurately, and safely process, interpret, and validate a variety of specimens for clinical chemistry analysis. Students will document and report results as required to meet quality standards and will demonstrate the required entry-level behaviours in their role as part of the healthcare team. Students will also demonstrate a well-developed knowledge base of course and program learning outcomes.
This online course examines several psychological and professional topics relevant to the healthcare work environment. Using assigned readings, online discussion, journal writing and a culminating project the student will acquire knowledge and skills related to interpersonal communication, resource management, applied investigation, critical thinking, and professionalism.
Under supervision, within the clinical laboratory setting, students in this course will efficiently, accurately, and safely process, interpret, and validate a variety of specimens for clinical hematology analysis. Students will document and report results as required to meet quality standards and will demonstrate the required entry-level behaviours in their role as part of the healthcare team. Students will also demonstrate a well-developed knowledge base of course and program learning outcomes.
Under supervision, within the clinical laboratory setting, students in this course will efficiently, accurately, and safely process, interpret, and validate a variety of specimens for clinical histological analysis. Students will document and report results as required to meet quality standards and will demonstrate the required entry-level behaviours in their role as part of the healthcare team. Students will also demonstrate a well-developed knowledge base of course and program learning outcomes.
Under supervision, within the clinical laboratory setting, students in this course will efficiently, accurately, and safely process, interpret, and validate a variety of specimens for microbiological analysis. Students will document and report results as required to meet quality standards and will demonstrate the required entry-level behaviours in their role as part of the healthcare team. Students will also demonstrate a well-developed knowledge base of course and program learning outcomes.
Under supervision, within the clinical laboratory setting, students in this course will efficiently, accurately, and safely process, interpret, and validate a variety of specimens for clinical transfusion analysis. Students will document and report results as required to meet quality standards and will demonstrate the required entry-level behaviours in their role as part of the healthcare team. Students will also demonstrate a well-developed knowledge base of course and program learning outcomes.
Requirements
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the majority of Grade 11 and 12 courses at the C, U or M level including the following prerequisites:
- Grade 12 English at the C or U level
- Grade 12 Math at the C or U level
- Grade 12 Chemistry at the C or U level (or SCH3U)
- Grade 11 or 12 Biology at the C or U level
For OSSD equivalency options, see Admission Requirements.
This is a HIGHLY COMPETITIVE program. To be included in the competitive ranking, applications must be complete including all transcripts and proof of enrollment by February 1. Meeting minimum entrance requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Please see the Highly Competitive Program Chart for more details.
If you are missing prerequisite courses, enroll in the Career/College Prep program - free for Ontario residents who are 19 years or older.
Health Requirements
Immunization - Communicable Disease Requirements
Completion of the Immunization - Communicable Disease Form is mandatory for your laboratory classes (semester 1) and practical placement. THIS FORM IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
Download your Immunization - Communicable Disease Form
Questions regarding the completion of this form can be submitted to Immunizations@sl.on.ca
Note: As a Full-time SLC student, you are automatically enrolled in a student insurance plan. To learn more about how this applies to your immunization requirements please visit www.wespeakstudent.com (domestic) or www.guard.me (international).
OTHER PLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for unpaid placement, enrolled students will need to complete a series of MANDATORY program and agency-specific pre-placement requirements. These will be discussed with students during class time and a Student Placement Facilitator will be in place to assist and answer all placement-related questions.
Students will need to complete the below mandatory requirements before placement:
- Standard First Aid & CPR Level BLS (formerly HCP) Certification
Must be completed through a WSIB-approved training provider. Certification must not expire during placement.
- WSIB Certified First Aid/CPR Trainers
- Book a class ASAP as they fill up quickly
- Students can hold their certificate once completed and they will be instructed where and how to share it with the College
- All costs associated with the training are at the expense of the student
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
- Police Record Check – Vulnerable Sector Screening
Note: Certain criminal convictions may prevent a student from participating in or completing placements for this program. Applicants with criminal records are required to contact the Associate Dean of the respective school (see Program Contacts below) prior to accepting an offer to this program to discuss and confirm participation in this program is suitable.
A recent Police Record Check including the Vulnerable Sector Screening is an agency requirement and is MANDATORY to begin any unpaid placement for this Program.
- Students will be notified when to apply for their Police Record Check by the Student Placement Facilitator to ensure the dates remain valid for their placement period.
- Many agencies want these updated every 3-6 months. All costs associated with obtaining a Police Record Check are at the expense of the student.
- Enrolled students will be notified of further instruction through their SLC email account or their Blackboards and should continue to monitor frequently.
ADDITIONAL PLACEMENT INFORMATION
Students with outstanding pre-placement requirements will not be eligible to begin placement and may be denied to begin placement or be required to pay additional fees (at their own expense) to continue and complete the placement component.
Pre-placement requirements are subject to change based on placement agency and/or legislative or regulatory changes.
Program-specific or additional questions? Please email the Program Contact(s) listed below.
Other Requirements
The Medical Laboratory Science Program utilizes online assessment throughout all 3 years of the program. Students must have a reliable personal device (i.e. laptop, tablet) so that they can access all required assessments in their homes, in the college student spaces, in their learning environments and at their clinical site.
Students will require access to competency-tracking applications while on placement. Students are responsible for paying the one-time student fee directly to the provider of the software/app prior to beginning their clinical year of placement.
Fees
2023-2024
Fees are estimates only. Tuition is based on two semesters.
Kingston
Our Kingston campus has seen significant renovation over the past few years, including a brand new Student Life and Innovation Centre that houses a new gymnasium, fitness centre, pub, and more.
Career Opportunities
Medical Laboratory Science offers exciting opportunities for those who want a career in science and health care. Graduates find job opportunities in hospital laboratories, private laboratories, and public health institutions. Additional opportunities exist in research laboratories, clinics, businesses and industry. The profession also provides opportunities for specialization and leadership roles.
Testimonials
Program Contacts
Program Contact
Tara Dawe MLT, BSc.
Professor, Coordinator (MLS) & Placement Support
Medical Laboratory Programs
tdawe@sl.on.ca
Health and Wellness General Inquiries
healthsciences@sl.on.ca
Admissions Information
Click here to message Recruitment.
Credit Transfer Opportunities
- Athabasca University - Bachelor of Health Administration (Post Diploma)
- Athabasca University - Bachelor of Science (Post Diploma) with Major/Applied Mathematics
- Athabasca University - Bachelor of Science (Post Diploma) with Major/Computing Information Systems
- Athabasca University - Bachelor of Science (Post Diploma), no Major