Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Medical Laboratory Science] From South Dakota State University

The South Dakota State University Medical Laboratory Sciences Program is a two-year upper division Bachelor of Science degree program that prepares students for careers in medical laboratory science or related fields. SDSU is the only university NAACLS-accredited program in SD! The curriculum in the program emphasizes basic sciences, medical laboratory sciences, critical thinking skills and communication skills, including structured learning in the laboratories of clinical affiliated hospitals.

In order to receive a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in MLS, a student must successfully complete at least 120 semester credit hours. In addition to all of the required courses for the program, the student must complete all university general education requirements.

The program goals of the SDSU Medical Laboratory Science program are to:

• Provide an educational program within the framework of the University setting in accordance with the Standards of Accredited Programs for the Medical Laboratory Scientist as established by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS).
• Provide adequate numbers of entry level medical laboratory scientists to meet the workforce needs of the state of South Dakota and surrounding areas.
• Provide the health care community with quality individuals who are competent to conduct laboratory procedures in large medical facilities and small rural laboratories and who demonstrate positive professional attitudes, ethics and practices.

The SDSU Medical Laboratory Science program will meet these goals by:

• Providing a curriculum which includes a general or liberal education, content specific theory and applications, technical knowledge, professionalism and clinical competence to successfully complete a national registry exam.
• Assisting students in career placement by providing academic and occupational advisement
• Instilling in students a sense of professionalism, commitment to lifelong learning and academic excellence
• Preparing students to successfully enter the health care field as competent entry level professionals that communicate well, appreciate social diversity and possess a genuine compassion and concern for others.