Medical Laboratory Science
Do you like searching for clues and solving problems? Do you want to play a lead role in diagnosing, treating and preventing diseases? Are you good at bio and chem and working in a lab? If so, then think about majoring in medical laboratory science—a program designed for people who want to learn how to use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to perform fast, accurate (and often life-saving) lab tests.
What will I learn?
This program teaches you how to work effectively inside a hospital laboratory or similar environment. You’ll typically spend the first few years taking core classes and labs in biology and chemistry. Once you have that foundation, you’ll take courses that teach you how to properly perform lab tests in many different areas, such as hematology (bloodwork), immunology, urinalysis and microbiology. You’ll also get practical experience through clinical rotations.
This program is in UB’s medical school, which means students have access to expert faculty, state-of-the-art labs, research projects and other opportunities through UB's affiliated hospitals and clinics.
What can I do with a medical laboratory science degree?
This program is designed to help you earn your national certification as a medical laboratory scientist when you graduate, so you can start working in the field right away (if that’s what you choose).
With this degree, you'll likely have opportunities in many different settings, including hospitals, private labs, instrument manufacturers and research labs, to name a few. Your career options may include:
- Laboratory manager.
- Laboratory technician.
- Regulatory consultant.
- Research assistant.
- Sales representative.
- Technical support manager.
- Scientific writer or editor.
Not ready to get a job right away? Some students decide to go to graduate school in biology, forensics or another science-related field. Other students choose to go to a professional school such as medical school, dental school or veterinary school.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840.00 | N/A | Rapid Growth |
Data provided by the and DOL data from 2024.