About The Program

The curriculum prepares Medical Laboratory Assistants to perform a variety of supportive procedures in the pre-analytical and analytical stages of clinical samples processing. Students will develop their ability to follow written and verbal instructions, organize work, transfer information from one situation to another, demonstrate problem solving skills and communicate effectively with patients and members of the health care delivery team. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to sit for national certification exams at the assistant level.

Program Degrees and Certificates

Program Details

Medical Laboratory Assistants are prepared to perform a variety of supportive procedures in the pre-analytical and analytical stages of clinical samples processing. The curriculum provides students with the ability to follow written and verbal instructions, organize work, transfer information from one situation to another, demonstrate problem solving skills and communicate effectively with patients and members of the health care delivery team. Course delivery modes include Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) and other tools. Simulations, laboratory activities and clinical training provide proficiency in laboratory techniques and procedures.

  • Transfer Opportunities

    Since four-year colleges can vary in their course and GPA requirements, please consult a counselor or academic advisor regarding specific requirements and course selection.

  • Credit for Prior Learning

    Northern Virginia Community College accepts industry-standard certifications, credentials and/or professional courses for credit. Broadly, licenses, credentials and/or certifications must be current and valid for consideration. For more information regarding the status of the certification and its eligibility for credit, please see an advisor or faculty members in the discipline area that awards CPL credit.

  • Career Prospects

    Graduates from the NOVA Career Studies Certificate in Medical Laboratory Assistant are employed in the Northern Virginia area as well as throughout the rest of the state and surrounding areas. MLA’s work in hospitals, medical clinics, commercial clinical laboratories, physician office laboratories and in other clinical facilities.

Information Session

The first step to beginning health career training at NOVA/MEC is to attend a mandatory Information Session.

Please note that the online information sessions contain program information for the current academic year only.

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