University of Kentucky®
Undergraduate Certificate in
Medical Laboratory Science - Employer Sponsored
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PROGRAM DETAILS
FORMAT
TOTAL CREDITS 12 - 13
CREDENTIALS Certificate
COST PER CREDIT
$624.00
- UK Online
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- Undergraduate Certificates
- Medical Laboratory Science - Employer Sponsored
About this Program
This online certificate program is designed for clinical laboratory employees who hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field (as approved by the certificate director) and want to become certified MLS professionals. The program equips you with university-level training to help you pass board exams and develop essential skills in data analysis and interpretation—all while continuing to work in your current lab setting. All courses are online except for the practicum component.
Upon admission, you will be assigned an advisor from the College of Health Sciences who will guide you on course selection and program planning.
Designed For
This program is ideal for individuals working in clinical laboratories who hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field and are seeking professional certification in medical laboratory science. It is designed for those who want to advance their careers while continuing to work in their current lab setting.
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What You’ll Learn
You will gain mastery in technical laboratory methods specific to your chosen area of emphasis while applying both theoretical and practical skills for effective data analysis and interpretation.
Area of Emphasis
Choose one focus area that aligns with certification exams:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Blood Banking
- Clinical Hematology
- Microbiology
Practicum Details
The practicum is part of the MLS 401 (Central Processing) course and lasts 1-2 weeks, depending on your weekly schedule. This is completed in the laboratory where you are employed.
Course Examples
- MLS 401 Introduction to Laboratory Methodologies
- CLM 325 Introduction to Healthcare Management
- MLS 480 Hematology Practicum (course changes according to area of emphasis)
GOT QUESTIONS?
Schedule time to meet with a representative from UK Online to discuss your online learning options.
How to Apply
Admissions Criteria
- Degree Requirement: A bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field (approval required)
- Academic Standard: Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5
- Employment: Must be actively working in a clinical laboratory where you can complete practicum training
Application Requirements
Employer Support: Submit a Statement of Support from your employer confirming that you can complete the practicum in your workplace.
Program Contact
Deadlines
Fall 2025
Why UK Online
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success.
Pay the same online tuition rate, no matter where you live.
Fit learning into your busy schedule with no prescribed class times.
Access supporting services and success coaches to help you succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
About
What does "Employer Sponsored" Mean?
This program is for those already working in a lab setting and want to be better prepared to pass board exams. It requires your employer's support to utilize your employment for the practicum requirement.
Admissions
Do I need to have a bachelor's degree to take this program?
Yes, students are required to have a bachelor's degree in a biology, chemistry or a similar field as approved by the program director. A 2.5 overall undergraduate GPA is required for admission.
Curriculum
What if I'm seeking certification in more than 1 clinical area?
All certificate students complete core certificate course requirements (5 credits) with the remainder of the required credits determined according to selected emphasis. If you seek certification in more than one area and have employment that aligns with this area, students can add additional areas of certification.
Tuition
How much does the online program cost?
The tuition rate for this program is listed at the top of this page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the program representative.
Online Learning
Will I have to attend class at a specific time?
No, all classes are asynchronous. This means that students complete the course requirements according to the syllabus and deadlines, but they have flexibility within their own schedule to complete coursework at times that work best for their schedule. We recommend students log in everyday to ensure they are staying on top of communication and assignments.
What should I expect in online classes?
It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:
Develop a routine: Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.
Be good time managers: Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.
Communicate: If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.
If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.
Are there any on-campus requirements?
No, there is no on-campus requirement.
Internship / Practicum
Can I use my employment in a lab as my practicum?
Yes, this program was specifically designed to utilize your employment for the practicum requirement, given your employer's approval.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!
Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
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