Medical Laboratory Assistant

Medical students working in lab

Comprehensive Training for Medical Laboratory Assistants

The curriculum prepares Medical Laboratory Assistants to perform a variety of supportive procedures in the pre-analytical and analytical stages of clinical samples processing. Students will develop their ability to follow written and verbal instructions, organize work, transfer information from one situation to another, demonstrate problem solving skills and communicate effectively with patients and members of the health care delivery team. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to sit for national certification exams at the assistant level.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Career Studies Certificate in Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)

The program is designed to prepare personnel who collect, process, and perform selected tests on samples for medical laboratory analysis. Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) work in hospitals, medical clinics, and reference laboratories. The curriculum includes learning experiences: on-campus, online, and in partnership with affiliated clinical laboratories. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Medical Technologist Certification national examination to become certified as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA).

Length
3 Semesters
Credits
27
Locations
Medical Education
Curriculum Details

Why Medical Laboratory Assisting at NOVA?

Hands-On Experience

Gain hands-on experience in pre-analytical and analytical stages of clinical sample processing.

Effective Communication

Develop strong communication skills for interactions with patients and healthcare teams.

National Certification

Upon completion, you'll be eligible to sit for national certification exams for Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLA).

Program Details

Medical Laboratory Assistants are trained to perform various supportive procedures during the pre-analytical and analytical stages of processing clinical samples. The course curriculum equips students with the ability to follow both written and verbal instructions, organize their work, transfer information from one scenario to another, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and communicate effectively with patients and other members of the healthcare team. The course delivery modes include the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) and other tools. Simulations, laboratory activities, and clinical training are provided to ensure proficiency in laboratory techniques and procedures.

Information Session

The first step to beginning health career training at NOVA/MEC is to attend a mandatory Information Session.

More Program Details and Resources

Medical Laboratory Assistant Program Career Outcomes

Upon program completion, Medical Laboratory Assistant graduates are well-equipped to conduct diverse tasks in clinical sample processing, including test performance and analysis, facilitating their eligibility for national certification exams and subsequent employment in hospitals, medical clinics, and reference laboratories.

Credits and
Transfer Info

Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.

Transferring

Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.

Your Next Steps to NOVA