A woman works in a laboratory in the field of medical laboratory sciences

B.S. in Medical Laboratory Sciences - MLT to MLS - Online

“The medical laboratory sciences program at NIU has professors who really prepare you to be successful. They are certified to work in their area of expertise, and really take the time to make sure you understand the knowledge required for the profession.” - Terros D., MLT-MLS student

About the Program

To be considered for admission to the Medical Laboratory Technician to Medical Laboratory Science Bachelor of Science Degree Completion program you must:

  • Be admitted to NIU as a regular degree-seeking student.
  • Have an associate of applied science degree (A.A.S.) or an associate of science degree (A.S.) with the prerequisites completed before starting the program.
  • Have appropriate certification as granted by the ASCP Board of Certification or equivalent national organization with a minimum of one year of experience working full-time as a CLT/MLT within the last five years. 
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 in prerequisite courses and a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.
  • Submit an application to the MLS program, which includes a goals statement and request for two references if eligible.

Students with an associate of applied science degree or associate of science degree may need to take additional courses prior to admittance to the program. In as little as three semesters, you can complete your bachelor's degree in medical laboratory sciences (MLS) if no additional courses are needed. Our flexible program is completely online, doesn't require a clinical practicum, and you can get credit for your work experiences. If you need more time, you can take classes part-time and work at your own pace.

Our highly recognized program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. When you graduate, you'll position yourself for greater success, including more opportunities for managerial and supervisory roles. You'll also be on track for a higher salary - an MLS can make approximately $15,000 more per year (according to an ASCP wage survey).

Program Mode of Delivery

This program is 100% online.

Curriculum

Some classes can cover topics such as:

  • AHLS 301 - Immunology
  • AHLS 302 - Hematology/Hemostasis
  • AHLS 336 - Medical Diagnostic Microbiology
  • AHLS 450 - Laboratory Management Principle and Processes

Information about specific course requirements can be found in the  NIU course catalog.

Applying to the Program

You must apply to NIU as a transfer student. Start your application now. You must also submit an application to the MLS program, which includes a goals statement and a request for two references.

Faculty and Instructors

Rouzbeh Chegeni, Ph.D., MLS, SH(ASCPi) CM
Shicheng Chen, Ph.D., FAACC, FACSc, MLS(ASCP) CM, MBCM
Ellen Olsen, M.S.Ed., MLS(ASCP) CM, POCS(AACC)
Amanda Voelker, M.P.H., MT(ASCP)

Illinois does not require licensure for MLS professionals. This program may not fulfill licensure requirements in states or territories with licensure regulations. You can find out more at the  American Society for Clinical Pathology and the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.

Program Type: Online bachelor's 
College: College of Health and Human Sciences, School of Health Studies
Credits Required: Varies based on your experience
Tuition Per Credit: $377.04 (Learn more about tuition and fees)

Request More Information

Application Deadlines

Term Deadline
Fall August 1
Summer May 15
Spring  December 1

Apply to NIU

Back to top