Become a Laboratory Scientist
Online Coursework
20 Months*
The George Washington University’s (GW) online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science is perfect if you’re looking to advance your career and become board certified as a laboratory scientist. This certificate program is designed to teach you how to analyze blood, urine, tissue, and other body specimens to detect, diagnose, and treat disease. You’ll learn the latest molecular techniques to investigate and determine the causes of disease.
To learn more about our 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
- 93% Five year pass rate for GW grads in the ASCP MLS board of certification exam
- 100% online coursework, no visits to campus required
- Accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS)
- Qualify to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) MLS exam
- The certificate can be completed in 5 semesters
- Applicants with clinical laboratory experience may be eligible to waive individual clinical practicum requirements
Curriculum
The online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) requires the completion of 48 credit hours, divided into two components: MLS Courses (32 credit hours) and Clinical Practicum Courses (16 credit hours). Clinical practicum waivers are available for qualified students.
Program Outcomes
This certificate teaches you what you need to qualify to sit for the ASCP Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) exam.** When you complete this certificate program and your hands-on practicum, you’ll be able to:
- Apply 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:** | GW ASCP Pass Rates:*** | ASCP National Overall Pass Rate: |
| 2020: 100% |
2020: 100% | 2020: 93% | 2020: 74.57% |
| 2021: 100% | 2021: 100% | 2021: 91% | 2021: 69.14% |
| 2022: 99% | 2022: 100% | 2022: 88.61% | 2022: 68.71% |
| 2023: 99% | 2023: 100% | 2023: 87.5%† | 2023: 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 Program?
Medical laboratory scientists have a knack for scientific concepts and troubleshooting. Working both alone and as part of a team, they are persistent in thoroughly investigating abnormal test results. They can work various shifts throughout the day or be on call in case of emergency. They have a passion for improving patient care from behind the scenes.
This certificate program is best for those who have successfully completed a baccalaureate degree, typically in a science, such as biology, chemistry, or microbiology, and want to pursue the laboratory science profession without completing another bachelor’s degree. There will also be a clinical rotation requirement in your geographical area to complete this program. Clinical practicum waivers are available for qualified students.
Career Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions through laboratory procedures, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes. Overall employment of medical laboratory technologists and technicians is expected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations, with a median salary of $54,180 per year.1
Some potential roles may include:
- Lab Manager: $70,349 median salary2
- Certified Medical Technologist: $50,129 median salary2
- Medical Lab Technologist: $52,450 median salary2
Medical laboratory scientists can work in a variety of laboratory settings:
- Hospitals or clinics
- Forensic labs
- Veterinary clinics
- Industrial research labs
- Molecular biotechnology labs
According to Burning Glass, from May 2017 to May 2018, these high-demand, high-paying metro areas were seeking medical laboratory technicians with at least 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 salary
Admission Requirements
To apply for the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science, you’ll need:
- Completed application
- Cumulative and Science GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement
- One letter of recommendation
Tuition Details
The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science at GW consists of 48 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 program and in your 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, and 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.
Sources:
- “Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.” Bls.gov, 9 Apr. 2021, www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/clinical-laboratory-technologists-and-technicians.htm. Accessed 5 May 2021.
- Burning Glass Technologies: Labor Insight™. Retrieved January 16, 2020.
*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. States 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. Each student is encouraged to contact their state’s regulating agency and review these requirements prior to beginning any degree program.
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 fully online post-baccalaureate certificate programs do not meet the student lab requirement for NY state licensure. Also, for those applying to the fully online post-baccalaureate categorical certificates in hematology, microbiology, blood banking, and chemistry, the state of New York does not provide licensure for categorical certification (e.g., Technologist in Microbiology, Technologist in Blood Banking, etc.). We recommend that students who live in New York or California plan to relocate to New York or California do research to determine the NY and CA licensure requirements.
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
5600 N River Road, Suite 720
Rosemont, IL 60018-5119
Curriculum Details
48 TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED
The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) requires completion of 48 credit hours, divided into two components: MLS Courses (32 credit hours, online courses) and Clinical Practicum Courses (16 credit hours).
Core
- MLS 4116 Clinical Bacteriology I (3)
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Principles of clinical microbiology with emphasis on pathogenic characteristics, isolation, and identification of bacteria related to human disease. The course focuses on the theoretical approach to the current diagnostic techniques and identification systems used in clinical practice. Various topics, including disease causation and laboratory identification of medically significant bacteria will be discussed.
- MLS 4117 Clinical Bacteriology II (2)
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This course presents the etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites with an emphasis on the epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents. Various topics, specimen collection and handling, diagnosis and treatment of medically significant bacteria will be discussed.
- MLS 4119 Parasitology, Mycology, and Virology (2)
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This course covers the principles and procedures involved in the diagnosis of parasitic, fungal, and viral infections. Various topics, including disease causation, specimen collection, and handling, laboratory identification, and treatment of medically significant fungi, parasites and viruses will be discussed
- MLS 4130 Hematology I (3)
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This course features a study of the blood and blood-forming tissues with emphasis on hematologic techniques, and cell identification Anemias and non-malignant leukocyte disorders are also presented.
- MLS 4131 Hematology II (3)
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This course features a study of the blood and blood-forming tissues with an emphasis on white blood cell disorders. An introduction to the hemostatic system and associated coagulation disorders are also presented.
- MLS 4141 Immunology and Serology (3)
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Principles of the immune system’s components, functions, interactions with microorganisms, and the clinical applications of immunologic assays to human health and disease.
- MLS 4145 Clinical Biochemistry I (3)
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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. Also, the laboratory results are correlated with clinical significance and pathophysiology, which may generate changes in the analyte. Throughout the course, the quality assurance measures required to ensure the reliability and validity of the laboratory results will also be emphasized.
- MLS 4146 Clinical Biochemistry II (3)
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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 will also be emphasized.
- MLS 4150 Immunohematology (3)
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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.
- MLS 4151 Molecular Diagnostics (3)
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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.
- MLS 4158 Laboratory Management and Operations (3)
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Introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations.
- MLS 4159 Capstone Seminar (1)
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A 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.
- MLS 4160 Blood Banking Practicum (4)
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Clinical practicum in which students apply medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in Immunohematology. Prerequisites: Immunohematology.
- MLS 4161 Clinical Biochemistry Practicum (4)
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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)
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Analyses and laboratory testing of human blood specimens.
- MLS 4164 Clinical Microbiology Practicum (4)
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Students apply medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in Bacteriology I and Bacteriology II.
- MLS 4165 Urinalysis Practicum (1)
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Active engagement in applying medical knowledge and clinical skills in the analysis of urine and body fluids.
- MLS 4166 Coagulation Practicum (1)
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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.
Key Dates
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Summer 2025 |
Fall 2025 |
Spring 2026 |
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| Application Deadline |
March 20, 2025 (Closed) |
July 20, 2025 (Open) |
November 19, 2025 (Open) |
Admissions Requirements
To apply for the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Laboratory Science program (online courses), you’ll need:
| Completed Application |
| Cumulative and Science GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale |
| Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university |
| Resume/CV |
| Personal statement: 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. |
| Official transcripts from every college and university attended. All non-U.S. transcripts (including those in English) must be evaluated by an accredited foreign credential agency. Please find the list of member organizations here: https://www.naces.org/members. |
| Completed coursework: 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: 3 credits English Composition, 3 credits College Algebra, Statistics (or higher), 8 credits Biology (lecture and lab), 4 credits Microbiology (lecture and lab), 8 credits Chemistry (lecture and lab), 3 credits Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry. *Please be prepared to provide unofficial transcripts to determine program admissibility. |
| Students who live outside of the Washington, D.C., metro area are required to secure a satisfactory clinical site at the time of admission. |
| Review the Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening Policies in the Health Sciences Programs Bulletin |
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One letter of recommendation Letter of recommendation should be from:
Recommender will submit a letter on letterhead with a signature and credentials/contact information via the application portal. |
| Application fee: A non-refundable application fee of $80 is required. The application fee is waived for active-duty U.S. military, current GW students, degree-holding GW alumni, current McNair Program Scholars, and graduates of minority-serving institutions (MSI). |
| 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 fully online post-baccalaureate certificate programs do not meet the student lab requirement for NY state licensure. Also, for those applying to the fully online post-baccalaureate categorical certificates in hematology, microbiology, blood banking, and chemistry, the state of New York does not provide licensure for categorical certification (e.g., Technologist in Microbiology, Technologist in Blood Banking, etc.). 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. |
| Post Matriculation Requirements: Copy of criminal background check Copy of drug screening test Prior to Clinical Rotations: Physical exam with clinician sign-off of Essential Functions Form Immunization records, including PPD (within the past 12 months) and evidence of Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella, Diphtheria, Polio and Tetanus vaccination Copy of health insurance |
NOTE: This program is authorized, exempt, or not subject to state regulatory compliance and may enroll students from all 50 states, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia.
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)