Learn About BSHS Programs in MLS at GW
Hybrid or 100% Online
24 Months*
Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS) is a challenging and rewarding health care profession that has great impact on patient care. Working in a variety of settings, medical laboratory scientists are essential members of the health care team, providing vital information about the status and function of the body and its systems. The data obtained by medical laboratory scientists is utilized in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and prevention of disease.
The George Washington University (GW) School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences degree in as little as 24 - 28 months. This online medical lab science program has two routes for completion:
- Hybrid (Blended) MLS
- Degree completion program for non-MLTs
- A combination of online medical laboratory courses and in-person courses
- 100% Online MLT to MLS
- Degree completion program for certified MLTs
To learn more about our online medical lab science programs, as well as our other online healthcare degrees and online allied health programs, you can register for our upcoming events.
*The total number of credits and duration of the program depend on the number of transferred credits
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Accreditation and Rankings
- GW is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- #62 Best National University*
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's Programs*
- #7 Best Online Programs for Veterans*
* The U.S. News & World Report – 2024 Rankings
Program Highlights
- GW grads have a 93.03% overall five-year pass rate for the ASCP MLS board of certification exam vs. 78.60% for the national average
- 99.72% of students who enter Phase II of the online medical lab science program graduate
- Greater than 95% of graduates are employed in the field within three months of program completion
- Clinical Laboratory Technicians named No. 1 in Best Health Care Support Jobs
- Available fully online for MLT-certified professionals or “blended” online and in-person for professionals who are not MLT-certified
- Applicants with clinical laboratory experience may be eligible to waive individual clinical practicum requirements
Program Outcomes
When you complete this online medical lab science program, you'll be able to sit for the ASCP Board of Certification exam (Route 1) and understand how to:
- Apply the principles of traditional and molecular laboratory procedures to perform diagnostic analyses
- Correlate laboratory data and quality control data to assess patient test results
- Apply knowledge of laboratory science principles as they relate to human disease diagnosis
- Comply with laboratory safety regulations and regulatory policies
- Apply ethical decision-making to issues related to clinical laboratory practice
| GW MLS Graduation Rates:* | GW MLS Placement Rates:** |
|
ASCP National Overall Pass Rate: | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020: 100% | 100% | 93% | 74.57% | |
| 2021: 100% | 100% | 91% | 69.14% | |
| 2022: 99% | 100% | 88.61% | 68.71% | |
| 2023: 99% | 100% | 87.5% † | 68.71% |
*Students graduating that began the second half of the program.
**Students who found employment (in the field or in a closely related field) and/or continued their education within one year of graduation.
***Students who passed within the first year of graduation
†Not a final result; rate calculation currently in progress
Who Is the Ideal Student for This Online Medical Lab Science Program?
Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS) is a profession that combines the challenges of medicine, the basic sciences, and clinical sciences into a highly satisfying and valued laboratory science career. Medical laboratory scientists function as detectives, investigating and determining the causes of disease. They utilize the latest biomedical instruments and molecular techniques to perform both routine and complex testing.
As vital members of the health care team, graduates of GW’s online medical lab science program can become medical laboratory scientists (sometimes called medical technologists) find great satisfaction in making a direct impact on medical care. Today's medical laboratory science graduates work in diverse settings including hospital laboratories, physician offices, clinics, commercial and research laboratories, pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, as well as government and public health facilities.
Learn more about Laboratory Science Careers.
State Licensure Information
While the completion of this online medical lab science program will make graduates eligible to register for an ASCP Board of Certification Exam, this does not automatically guarantee a graduate will also meet their state’s requirements for state licensure (if applicable). Since each state may have different requirements for licensure, each student is encouraged to contact their state’s regulating agency and review these requirements prior to beginning any degree program. State’s requiring licensure may require extended duration of practicum experiences, additional academic courses (outside the student’s program of study), etc. These additional requirements may require you to take a course or courses outside of GW.
In particular, New York and California have additional requirements for state licensure. Both NY and CA require extended times for practicum rotations. Please also be aware that the online BSHS in medical lab science program may not meet the student lab requirements for NY state licensure. We recommend that students who live in New York or California or plan to relocate to New York or California do research to determine the NY and CA licensure requirements.
Laboratory Science Career Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that an increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, like cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures. Overall employment of medical laboratory technologists and technicians is expected to grow 11% from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations, and graduates of GW’s online medical lab science program can expect a median salary of $52,330 per year.1
According to Burning Glass, from May 2017 to May 2018, these high-demand, high-paying metro areas were seeking medical laboratory technicians with a bachelor’s degree:
- New York, N.Y., 1,417 job postings, $70,590 mean salary
- Boston, Mass., 562 job postings, $74,030 mean salary
- Washington, D.C., 525 job postings, $66,840 mean salary2
Admission Requirements
To be accepted into this online medical lab science program, you must have:
- Completed application
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 and science GPA of 2.5. (For GAA applicants, a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and science GPA of 2.5 are required)
- Resume/CV
- Statement of Purpose
- One letter of recommendation (letter of recommendation is waived for GAA applicants)
- Applicants must have at least 45 credits from a regionally accredited college or university in specified courses
Tuition Details
The online BSHS in medical lab science program at GW consists of 60 credit hours. Please find the cost per credit hour and total estimated program costs here.
Note: Tuition rates are subject to change and additional fees may vary by program.
Meet the Program Director
GW's experienced faculty provide you with the rich, practical knowledge and support needed for you to succeed in the online medical lab science program and in your laboratory science career.
Cliff Cymrot, DHSc, MHA, MLS(ASCP)CM, SHCM, MT(AAB), MT(AMT)
- Read Full Bio
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Dr. Cliff Cymrot is the current Program Director for Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS) and has over 10 years of experience in combined teaching and clinical laboratory practice. In addition to his program director duties, Dr. Cymrot teaches a range of courses within the MLS program, both online and face-to-face, such as Hematology lecture and lab, Bacteriology lab, Immunohematology lab, Molecular Diagnostics, and Capstone.
Prior to his arrival at George Washington University (GW), Dr. Cymrot worked as a medical laboratory technician at a medium-sized, 200-bed hospital in upstate NY. In 2008, Dr. Cymrot worked for Advance Magazine for Laboratory Professionals providing storylines for the comic strip “Lab out Loud” that he worked on with his brother-in-law. He has also been a contributor for several chapters in the Textbook of Diagnostic Microbiology by Mahon, Lehman, and Manuselis, as well as having various research publications.
He is also a member of the DC chapter for the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS), American Medical Technologists (AMT), and the American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB). He also holds certifications in ASCP, AMT, and AAB in Medical Laboratory Science, and Specialist in Hematology.
In 2010, he earned his B.S. in Medical Technology from the University of Cincinnati (UC). He was then promoted to medical laboratory scientist and soon after began working as an adjunct instructor for SUNY Orange teaching Microbiology for Health Professionals, Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology, and Certification Preparation. In 2014 he earned his a master’s degree in Health Administration from UC.
After graduation, he received an offer to facilitate an online graduate level course in health systems management at UC. In 2015 he was offered a position at GW to teach all of the laboratory courses in the newly created BSHS in MLS blended/hybrid program. After three years he was offered the Program Director position for the undergraduate MLS program here at GW. In 2022 he then went on to complete his doctorate in health sciences at GW. In 2024 he was offered the Program Director position for the MSHS in Laboratory Medicine program here at GW. Dr. Cymrot is actively involved in the MLS profession and loves teaching, research, and promoting MLS.
Curriculum Details: Hybrid (Blended)
The hybrid Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) program requires 60 credits of GW coursework.
Students without MLT certification enter into the hybrid program and will complete 38 credit hours of core courses, 6 credits of in-person lab courses at the GW Virginia Science and Technology Campus (VSTC) in Ashburn, VA, and 16 credits of practicum courses at an approved diagnostic laboratory.
Program completion time is 2 years.
- Click here to open the program outline
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Fall Start Term Spring Start Term Summer Start Term Semester 1 MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
Semester 2 MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Semester 3 MLS 4116: Bacti I (3 cr)
MLS 4117: Bacti II (2 cr)
MLS 4119: Parasit (2 cr)
MLS 4216: Bacti Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4219: Parasit Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4145: Biochem I (3 cr)
MLS 4146: Biochem II (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4246: Biochem Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4251: Molecular Diag Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4130: Heme I (3 cr)
MLS 4131: Heme II (3 cr)
MLS 4150: Immunoheme (3 cr)
MLS 4230: Heme Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4250: Immunoheme Lab (1 cr)
Semester 4 MLS 4145: Biochem I (3 cr)
MLS 4146: Biochem II (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4246: Biochem Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4251: Molecular Diag Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4130: Heme I (3 cr)
MLS 4131: Heme II (3 cr)
MLS 4150: Immunoheme (3 cr)
MLS 4230: Heme Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4250: Immunoheme Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4116: Bacti I (3 cr)
MLS 4117: Bacti II (2 cr)
MLS 4119: Parasit (2 cr)
MLS 4216: Bacti Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4219: Parasit Lab (1 cr)
Semester 5 MLS 4130: Heme I (3 cr)
MLS 4131: Heme II (3 cr)
MLS 4150: Immunoheme (3 cr)
MLS 4230: Heme Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4250: Immunoheme Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4116: Bacti I (3 cr)
MLS 4117: Bacti II (2 cr)
MLS 4119: Parasit (2 cr)
MLS 4216: Bacti Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4219: Parasit Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4145: Biochem I (3 cr)
MLS 4146: Biochem II (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4246: Biochem Lab (1 cr)
MLS 4251: Molecular Diag Lab (1 cr)
Semester 6
(Clinical rotations and capstone)
MLS 4159: Capstone Seminar (1 cr)
MLS 4160: Blood Bank (4 cr)
MLS 4161: Biochem (4 cr)
MLS 4162: Hematology (2 cr)
MLS 4164: Microbiology (4 cr)
MLS 4165: Urinalysis (1 cr)
MLS 4166: Coagulation (1 cr)
MLS 4159: Capstone Seminar (1 cr)
MLS 4160: Blood Bank (4 cr)
MLS 4161: Biochem (4 cr)
MLS 4162: Hematology (2 cr)
MLS 4164: Microbiology (4 cr)
MLS 4165: Urinalysis (1 cr)
MLS 4166: Coagulation (1 cr)
MLS 4159: Capstone Seminar (1 cr)
MLS 4160: Blood Bank (4 cr)
MLS 4161: Biochem (4 cr)
MLS 4162: Hematology (2 cr)
MLS 4164: Microbiology (4 cr)
MLS 4165: Urinalysis (1 cr)
MLS 4166: Coagulation (1 cr)
Note: These are examples of course sequencing. Summer IS included in our program. Students will work closely with their academic advisor regarding any edits that need to be made to the plan based on successful course completion or offerings.
- View List of Courses
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MLS 2007W - Writing in the Health Sciences (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Introduction to the health sciences literature Emphasis is on construction, evaluation and organization of written communication of health sciences information.
MLS 3001W - Professional Ethics for MLS (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Ethical and professional conduct of and dilemmas encountered by medical laboratory professionals. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science programs. Includes a significant engagement in writing as a form of critical inquiry and scholarly expression to satisfy the WID requirement.
MLS 4141 - Immunology and Serology (3 credits) - 15 weeks
Principles of the immune system’s components, functions, interactions with microorganisms, and the clinical applications of immunologic assays to human health and disease.
MLS 4158 - Laboratory Management (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations. Proctor fee.
MLS 4116 - Clinical Bacteriology I (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Principles of clinical microbiology with emphasis on pathogenic characteristics, isolation, and identification of bacteria related to human disease; theoretical approach to the current diagnostic techniques and identification systems used in clinical practice. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111.
MLS 4117 - Clinical Bacteriology II (2 credits) - 8 weeks
The etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites with an emphasis on the epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents; specimen collection and handling, diagnosis and treatment of medically significant bacteria. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111.
MLS 4119 - Parasitology, Mycology, and Virology (2 credits) - 15 weeks
Principles and procedures involved in the diagnosis of parasitic, fungal, and viral infections; disease causation, specimen collection and handling, laboratory identification and treatment of medically significant fungi, parasites, and viruses. Proctor fee. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1112; or BISC 1116 and BISC 1126.
MLS 4216 - Clinical Bacteriology Lab (1 credit) - 15 weeks
Hands-on experience in current diagnostic techniques and identification systems used in clinical practice; principles, procedures, techniques and data interpretation for the isolation and identification of clinically significant bacteria. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111. Corequisites: MLS 4116.
MLS 4219 - Parasitology, Mycology, and Virology Laboratory (1 credit)
Principles and procedures involved in the diagnosis of parasitic, fungal, and viral infections; disease causation, specimen collection and handling, laboratory identification and treatment of medically significant fungi, parasites and viruses. Laboratory fee. Corequisite MLS 4119. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1112; or BISC 1116 and BISC 1126.
MLS 4145 - Clinical Biochemistry I (3 credits) - 8 weeks
This course studies the methodologies employed in the chemical analysis of human blood and body fluids. This includes an examination of the fundamentals of measurement and the principles of instrumentation as they relate to the assay of each analyte studied. In addition, the laboratory results are correlated with the clinical significance and pathophysiology which may generate changes in the analyte. Throughout the course, the quality assurance measures required to ensure reliability and validity of the laboratory results are also emphasized. [add to end of description: Proctor fee.
MLS 4146 - Clinical Biochemistry II (3 credits) - 8 weeks
This second course in clinical biochemistry continues the study of the measurement and interpretation of chemical constituents in human blood and body fluids. The laboratory results of each analyte are correlated with the clinical significance and pathophysiology which may generate changes in the analyte. Throughout the course, the quality assurance measures required to ensure reliability and validity of the laboratory results are also emphasized.
MLS 4151 - Molecular Diagnostics (3 credits) - 15 weeks
Introduction to the molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease; technology, theory, and methodology of specific molecular protocols that can be used within a clinical laboratory setting to aid in disease diagnostics including those of genetic, oncogenic, and infections origin. Proctor fee.
MLS 4246 - Clinical Biochemistry Lab (1 credit) - 15 weeks
Practical laboratory course covering the principles and procedures of various diagnostic testing procedures performed in the clinical biochemistry laboratory; measurement and interpretation of chemical constituents in human blood and body fluids. Laboratory fee. Corequisite: MLS 4145. Prerequisites: CHEM 1111 and CHEM 1112.
MLS 4251 - Molecular Diagnostics Lab (1 credit) - 15 weeks
An introduction to the theory of and laboratory techniques in molecular biology with an emphasis on molecular and serological techniques, including DNA extraction and quantitation, restriction enzyme digestion, polymerase chain reaction, agarose gel electrophoresis, flow cytometry, and ELISA. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.
MLS 4130 - Hematology I (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Study of the blood and blood-forming tissues with emphasis on hematologic techniques and cell identification; anemias and non-malignant leukocyte disorders. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111.
MLS 4131 - Hematology II (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Study of the blood and blood-forming tissues with emphasis on white blood cell disorders; introduction to the hemostatic system and associated coagulation disorders. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: MLS 4130.
MLS 4150 - Immunohematology (3 credits) - 15 weeks
The major blood group systems that affect the practice of transfusion medicine and examines the processing and distribution of blood products supplied by transfusion services. Proctor fee.
MLS 4230 - Hematology Lab (1 credit) - 15 weeks
Diagnostic analyses used to evaluate disease states associated with human blood cells; quality assurance in the hematology lab and on the evaluation of stained blood smears and microscopic differentiation of blood cells. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111. Corequisites: MLS 4130.
MLS 4250 - Immunohematology Lab (1 credit) - 15 weeks
Performance of routine blood banking procedures, including blood group and Rh typing, antibody screens, antibody identification, cross matching, and elution and absorption techniques. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.
MLS 4159 - Capstone Seminar (1 credit) - 15 weeks
Comprehensive review of medical laboratory science, which prepares students to sit for the board of certification examination. Integration of knowledge gained in didactic and practicum courses within the various laboratory disciplines, including hematology, microbiology, chemistry, and immunohematology. Proctor fee.
MLS 4160 - Blood Bank Practicum (4 credits) - 15 weeks
Clinical practicum in which students apply medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in MLS 4150. Prerequisites: MLS 4150.
MLS 4161 - Clinical Biochemistry Practicum (4 credits) - 15 weeks
Application of the medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in the didactic clinical biochemistry I and clinical biochemistry II courses. Proctor fee.
MLS 4162 - Hematology Practicum (2 credits) - 15 weeks
Analyses and laboratory testing of human blood specimens.
MLS 4164 - Clinical Microbiology Practicum (4 credits) - 15 weeks
Students apply medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in MLS 4123 (Clinical Microbiology I), MLS 4124 (Clinical Microbiology II), and MLS 4151 (Molecular Diagnostics). Proctor fee.
MLS 4165 - Urinalysis Practicum (1 credit) - 15 weeks
Active engagement in applying medical knowledge and clinical skills in the analysis of urine and body fluids.
MLS 4166 - Coagulation Practicum (1 credit) - 15 weeks
One-week required rotation for students in the Bachelor of Science in Health Science in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), Post-baccalaureate MLS, or Post-baccalaureate in Hematology for MLS certificate programs. Focus on analyses and laboratory testing of human blood specimens.
Curriculum Details: 100% Online
The 100% online in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) route requires 60 credits of GW coursework.
Students with MLT certification enter into the 100% online program and will complete 38 credit hours of core courses, 14 – 29 credits of electives (determine by the number brought in at admission), and eight credits of clinical experience in their local area.
Program completion time is 2 years.
Note: These are examples of course sequencing. Summer IS included in our program. Students will work closely with their academic advisor regarding any edits that need to be made to the plan based on successful course completion or offerings.
- Click here to open the program outline
-
Fall Start Term Spring Start Term Summer Start Term Semester 1 MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
MLS 2007W: Microbes (3 cr)
MLS 3001W: Prof Ethics (3 cr)
MLS 4141: Immuno/Sero (3 cr)
Semester 2 MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
MLS 3000: Lab Math (3 cr)
MLS 4158: Lab Mgmt (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 3 Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Elective (3 cr)
Semester 4 MLS 4145: Biochem I (3 cr)
MLS 4146: Biochem II (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4130: Heme I (3 cr)
MLS 4131: Heme II (3 cr)
MLS 4150: Immunoheme (3 cr)
MLS 4116: Bacti I (3 cr)
MLS 4117: Bacti II (2 cr)
MLS 4119: Parasit (2 cr)
Semester 5 MLS 4130: Heme I (3 cr)
MLS 4131: Heme II (3 cr)
MLS 4150: Immunoheme (3 cr)
MLS 4116: Bacti I (3 cr)
MLS 4117: Bacti II (2 cr)
MLS 4119: Parasit (2 cr)
MLS 4145: Biochem I (3 cr)
MLS 4146: Biochem II (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
Semester 6 MLS 4116: Bacti I (3 cr)
MLS 4117: Bacti II (2 cr)
MLS 4119: Parasit (2 cr)
MLS 4145: Biochem I (3 cr)
MLS 4146: Biochem II (3 cr)
MLS 4151: Molecular Diag (3 cr)
MLS 4130: Heme I (3 cr)
MLS 4131: Heme II (3 cr)
MLS 4150: Immunoheme (3 cr)
Semester 7
(Clinical rotations and capstone)
MLS 4136: Clin Exp I (2 cr)
MLS 4137: Clin Exp II (2 cr)
MLS 4138: Clin Exp III (2 cr)
MLS 4139: Clin Exp IV (2 cr)
MLS 4159: Capstone Seminar (1 cr)
MLS 4136: Clin Exp I (2 cr)
MLS 4137: Clin Exp II (2 cr)
MLS 4138: Clin Exp III (2 cr)
MLS 4139: Clin Exp IV (2 cr)
MLS 4159: Capstone Seminar (1 cr)
MLS 4136: Clin Exp I (2 cr)
MLS 4137: Clin Exp II (2 cr)
MLS 4138: Clin Exp III (2 cr)
MLS 4139: Clin Exp IV (2 cr)
MLS 4159: Capstone Seminar (1 cr)
- View list of courses
-
MLS 2007W - Writing in the Health Sciences (3 credits) - 15 weeks
MLS 3001W - Professional Ethics for MLS (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Ethical and professional conduct of and dilemmas encountered by medical laboratory professionals. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science programs. Includes a significant engagement in writing as a form of critical inquiry and scholarly expression to satisfy the WID requirement.
MLS 4141 - Immunology and Serology (3 credits) - 15 weeks
Principles of the immune system’s components, functions, interactions with microorganisms, and the clinical applications of immunologic assays to human health and disease.
MLS 3000 - Clinical Lab Mathematics (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Basic mathematical techniques used in the clinical laboratory, including exponential and logarithms, measurement systems, solutions and concentrations, proportionality, graphing, statistics and quality control, and method evaluation; practical applications of data analysis. An equivalent college-level mathematics course or permission of the program director may be substituted for the prerequisite. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisite: HSCI 2117.
MLS 4158 - Laboratory Management (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations. Proctor fee.
MLS 4145 - Clinical Biochemistry I (3 credits) - 8 weeks
This course studies the methodologies employed in the chemical analysis of human blood and body fluids. This includes an examination of the fundamentals of measurement and the principles of instrumentation as they relate to the assay of each analyte studied. In addition, the laboratory results are correlated with the clinical significance and pathophysiology which may generate changes in the analyte. Throughout the course, the quality assurance measures required to ensure reliability and validity of the laboratory results are also emphasized. [add to end of description: Proctor fee.
MLS 4146 - Clinical Biochemistry II (3 credits) - 8 weeks
This second course in clinical biochemistry continues the study of the measurement and interpretation of chemical constituents in human blood and body fluids. The laboratory results of each analyte are correlated with the clinical significance and pathophysiology which may generate changes in the analyte. Throughout the course, the quality assurance measures required to ensure reliability and validity of the laboratory results are also emphasized.
MLS 4151 - Molecular Diagnostics (3 credits) - 15 weeks
Introduction to the molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease; technology, theory, and methodology of specific molecular protocols that can be used within a clinical laboratory setting to aid in disease diagnostics including those of genetic, oncogenic, and infections origin. Proctor fee.
MLS 4130 - Hematology I (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Study of the blood and blood-forming tissues with emphasis on hematologic techniques and cell identification; anemias and non-malignant leukocyte disorders. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111.
MLS 4131 - Hematology II (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Study of the blood and blood-forming tissues with emphasis on white blood cell disorders; introduction to the hemostatic system and associated coagulation disorders. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: MLS 4130.
MLS 4150 - Immunohematology (3 credits) - 15 weeks
The major blood group systems that affect the practice of transfusion medicine and examines the processing and distribution of blood products supplied by transfusion services. Proctor fee.
MLS 4116 - Clinical Bacteriology I (3 credits) - 8 weeks
Principles of clinical microbiology with emphasis on pathogenic characteristics, isolation, and identification of bacteria related to human disease; theoretical approach to the current diagnostic techniques and identification systems used in clinical practice. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111.
MLS 4117 - Clinical Bacteriology II (2 credits) - 8 weeks
The etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites with an emphasis on the epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents; specimen collection and handling, diagnosis and treatment of medically significant bacteria. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1111.
MLS 4119 - Parasitology, Mycology, and Virology (2 credits) - 15 weeks
Principles and procedures involved in the diagnosis of parasitic, fungal, and viral infections; disease causation, specimen collection and handling, laboratory identification and treatment of medically significant fungi, parasites, and viruses. Proctor fee. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program. Prerequisites: BISC 1112; or BISC 1116 and BISC 1126.
MLS 4159 - Capstone Seminar (1 credit) - 15 weeks
Comprehensive review of medical laboratory science, which prepares students to sit for the board of certification examination. Integration of knowledge gained in didactic and practicum courses within the various laboratory disciplines, including hematology, microbiology, chemistry, and immunohematology. Proctor fee.
MLS 4136 - Clinical Experience I (2 credits) - 15 weeks
Supervised clinical experience in clinical chemistry. Proctor fee.
MLS 4137 - Clinical Experience II (2 credits) - 15 weeks
Supervised clinical experience in microbiology. Proctor fee.
MLS 4138 - Clinical Experience III (2 credits) - 15 weeks
Supervised clinical experience in hematology, coagulation and urinalysis. Proctor fee.
MLS 4139 - Clinical Experience IV (2 credits) - 15 weeks
Supervised clinical experience in transfusion medicine and serology. Proctor fee.
Elective (12 credits)
Key Dates
|
Summer 2025 |
Fall 2025 |
Spring 2026 |
|
| Application Deadline |
March 20, 2025 (Closed) |
July 20, 2025 (Open) |
November 19, 2025 (Open) |
|
Scholarship Application Deadline
|
April 15, 2025 (Closed) |
August 12, 2025 (Paused) |
December 16, 2025 (Closed) |
We aren't accepting scholarship applications at this time.
Learn more about our scholarships
Admission Requirements
GW SMHS does not admit first-time college freshmen or provide general education courses; therefore, students are expected to enroll at another institution of higher education for at least one semester during an academic year following their high school graduation, and prior to transferring into GW.
To apply for the BSHS in Medical Laboratory Sciences (Hybrid or 100% Online), you’ll need:
- Completed application
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 and science GPA of 2.5. (For GAA* applicants a cumulative GPA of 2.75 is required on the GW-GAA partner transcript. If additional transcripts exist, a cumulative GPA that includes all institutions must be a minimum of 2.7).
- Resume/CV
- Statement of Purpose: Applicants must include a 250–500 word essay describing your reasons for undertaking study at GW, your academic objectives, career goals, and related qualifications including collegiate, professional, and community activities relevant to your program of interest. Include any substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application form.
- One letter of recommendation (letter of recommendation is waived for GAA applicants)
Letter of recommendation should be from:- Academic instructors who can strongly attest to your academic ability, and/or
- Individuals who served in a supervisory capacity for you, and who can strongly attest to your work ethic.
- The recommender cannot be a family member or friend.
Recommender will submit a letter on letterhead with a signature and credentials/contact information via the application portal.
- MLT certification or graduated from a NAACLS-accredited MLT program within the last 6 months (for fully online BSHS route only)
- Applicants must have at least 45 credits from a regionally accredited college or university, which include the coursework specified below (All required courses must be completed with a C grade (C- grades and lower do not transfer) or better at a regionally accredited institution of higher learning):
| Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|
| English Composition (composition I & II) | 6 credits |
| College Mathematics (algebra, statistics, or higher) | 3 credits |
| Humanities | 3 credits |
| Social Sciences | 6 credits |
| Biology (lecture and hands-on lab) | 8 credits |
| Microbiology (lecture and hands-on lab) | 4 credits |
| Chemistry (lecture and hands-on lab) | 8 credits |
Transfer credit may include dual enrollment coursework. It may also be considered from Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate Credit (IB) credit as well as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP exams). Please refer to GW Undergraduate Admissions for information on maximum credits, minimum scores, and GW course equivalents for AP and IB credits.
If you have an associate degree from a participating D.C., Maryland, Virginia community college, you may be eligible for guaranteed admission to this program. Review the list of participating institutions.
Transfer credit may include dual enrollment coursework. It may also be considered from Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate Credit (IB) credit as well as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP exams). Please refer to GW Undergraduate Admissions for information on maximum credits, minimum scores, and GW course equivalents for AP and IB credits.
International Students
Effective Fall 2025
International students should check with individual programs regarding eligibility for visa sponsorship. Generally, online and hybrid programs are not eligible for student visa sponsorship from GW. This would include transfer students from any other institution with an existing visa. To be considered for admission, there are required scores that you will need to meet. Score requirements may differ by school and program so check the admissions requirements for your program.
Applicants who have not completed a post-secondary degree from an institution where English is the sole language of instruction are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, or the Duolingo English Test scores to be considered for admission. The following are the minimum scores for admission consideration:
- TOEFL: 600 on paper based, 250 on computer-based, or 100 Internet-based,
- PTE: overall score of 68,
- IELTS: an overall band score of 7.0, with no individual band score below 6.0
- DET overall score of 120.
Undergraduate applicants who meet one of the following conditions may be considered for admission without submitting TOEFL, PTE or IELTS or DET scores:
- You have earned an associate’s degree or higher from an institution where English is the sole language of instruction
- You are a citizen of an English-speaking country
Scores may not be more than two years old. To ensure TOEFL scores are sent to GW, use institutional code 5246. An institutional code is not required to send IELTS or PTE scores to GW. DET scores must be submitted via the Duolingo English Test system directly to GW.
Based on the results of your English Proficiency exam results and your application, you may be required to take English for Academic Purposes (EAP) during your first year of study at GW. Please note that GW evaluates each application holistically so applicants may still be recommended for EAP even if they meet the requirements for exemption. Students placed in EAP courses should anticipate additional tuition expenses as well as possible extension of time needed to complete their degree programs.
Official transcripts from institutions outside the U.S. must be accompanied by an official transcript evaluation from an accredited independent evaluating agency. Please be sure you request a detailed evaluation that includes all course titles, credit hours, grades, U.S. degree equivalency, grade-point averages (GPA), and date of degree conferral (course by course evaluation). For a list of acceptable foreign credential evaluation services, please visit NACES.
Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:
Mail: George Washington University
ATTN: Transcript Processing Center
1415 W 22nd St.
Suite 220
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Alternatively, official electronic transcripts can be sent to: transcripts [at] hsprograms [dot] gwu [dot] edu (transcripts[at]hsprograms[dot]gwu[dot]edu)