Comprehensive Training for Medical Laboratory Assistants
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.
AVAILABLE PROGRAMS
Career Studies Certificate in Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)
The program is designed to prepare personnel who collect, process, and perform selected tests on samples for medical laboratory analysis. Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) work in hospitals, medical clinics, and reference laboratories. The curriculum includes learning experiences: on-campus, online, and in partnership with affiliated clinical laboratories. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Medical Technologist Certification national examination to become certified as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA).
- Length
- 3 Semesters
- Credits
- 27
- Locations
- Medical Education
Why Medical Laboratory Assisting at NOVA?
Hands-On Experience
Gain hands-on experience in pre-analytical and analytical stages of clinical sample processing.
Effective Communication
Develop strong communication skills for interactions with patients and healthcare teams.
National Certification
Upon completion, you'll be eligible to sit for national certification exams for Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLA).
Program Details
Medical Laboratory Assistants are trained to perform various supportive procedures during the pre-analytical and analytical stages of processing clinical samples. The course curriculum equips students with the ability to follow both written and verbal instructions, organize their work, transfer information from one scenario to another, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and communicate effectively with patients and other members of the healthcare team. The course delivery modes include the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) and other tools. Simulations, laboratory activities, and clinical training are provided to ensure proficiency in laboratory techniques and procedures.
Information Session
The first step to beginning health career training at NOVA/MEC is to attend a mandatory Information Session.
More Program Details and Resources
Credits and
Transfer Info
Credit for Prior Learning
Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.
Transferring
Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.