Medical Laboratory Science
Analyze, diagnose, and make discoveries in healthcare laboratories
The Medical Laboratory Science program at Kentucky Wesleyan College prepares students for essential roles in healthcare diagnostics and laboratory science. Students complete three years of prerequisite coursework on campus before transitioning to a certified School of Medical Laboratory Science for their clinical year. Kentucky Wesleyan College has direct affiliation with the schools of medical technology at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. Graduates are equipped with the scientific expertise and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in medical diagnostics, research, and clinical laboratory management.
Medical Laboratory Science Program Features
Kentucky Wesleyan offers a structured pathway into the high-demand field of medical laboratory science. Students complete rigorous biology, chemistry, and mathematics courses before advancing to a 12-month clinical program at an accredited School of Medical Laboratory Science. KWC maintains a direct affiliation with Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, where students can complete their clinical year, though transfer to other accredited programs is also possible. During the fourth year, students gain hands-on training with state-of-the-art laboratory instruments, mastering skills in microbiology, immunology, genetics, and analytical chemistry. Upon completion of the program, students earn a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from Kentucky Wesleyan, supported by 36 upper-level credits transferred from the affiliated clinical program.
Career Pathways
Medical Laboratory Scientist – Laboratory scientists perform diagnostic tests on blood, tissue, and body fluids. They analyze results that help physicians diagnose and treat disease, serving as vital members of healthcare teams.
Clinical Microbiologist – Microbiologists identify bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in patient samples. Their work supports infection control and the development of treatments.
Immunology Specialist – Immunology specialists study immune system responses, perform antibody testing, and support diagnosis of autoimmune and infectious diseases in clinical laboratories.
Clinical Chemist – Clinical chemists analyze chemical components of blood and other body fluids, providing critical data for diagnosing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic disorders.
Public Health Laboratory Professional – These professionals conduct testing and research in government or community health labs, monitoring outbreaks, ensuring food and water safety, and advancing population health.
Research Scientist – Research scientists in laboratory medicine investigate new diagnostic techniques, develop laboratory technologies, and contribute to scientific advancements in healthcare and biotechnology.
Medical Laboratory Science Program Requirements
Students complete three years of prerequisite coursework at Kentucky Wesleyan before beginning their 12-month clinical program. Required courses include: Introduction to Cell Biology and Genetics (BIO 113/114), Introduction to Organismal Biology and Ecology (BIO 123/124), Microbiology I (BIO 313), Genetics (BIO 303), General Chemistry I & II with labs (CHEM 131/132 & CHEM 121/122), Organic Chemistry I & II with labs (CHEM 331/332 & CHEM 321/322), Analytical Chemistry (CHEM 341), Instrumental Techniques of Biochemical Research (CHEM 333), College Algebra (MATH 101), and Probability and Statistics (MATH 104). Recommended courses include Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II (BIO 231/241 with labs) and Immunology (BIO 412). After successful completion of the clinical year, 36 upper-level credits transfer back to Kentucky Wesleyan, and students receive the B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science.
