Medical laboratory science, also known as clinical laboratory science, is a health profession that involves analyzing body fluids, tissues, and cells to diagnose and treat diseases. As a medical laboratory scientist, you'll examine and analyze samples to detect abnormalities and provide critical information to physicians for patient diagnosis and treatment.
Education Requirements
To become a medical laboratory scientist in Nigeria, you need to earn a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science or Applied Biology from an accredited university. Some of the top Federal universities that offer medical laboratory science include University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University and University of Benin.
Coursework
The medical laboratory science program usually takes 4 years to complete. Coursework includes classes in clinical chemistry, hematology, immunology, molecular diagnostics, clinical microbiology, and parasitology. You'll also complete lab classes to gain hands-on experience in areas like drawing blood, analyzing samples, and operating sophisticated lab equipment. Some programs may require a practical internship at a hospital or diagnostic laboratory.
Career Prospects
With a degree in medical laboratory science, you can work as a medical laboratory scientist or technologist in hospitals, clinics, and private diagnostic laboratories. The job outlook for medical laboratory scientists in Nigeria is excellent due to shortage of qualified personnel. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical laboratory scientists is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030 in the US, faster than the average for all healthcare occupations.\
READ ALSO- Full List of Federal Universities Accepting IJMB in 2024
Top Federal Universities Offering Medical Lab Science in 2024
1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka offers a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science degree program. The program provides a broad-based education in the field of Medical Laboratory Science. After four years of study, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills required to function as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.
2. University of Lagos
The University of Lagos offers a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science program. The program provides theoretical and practical knowledge in medical laboratory techniques and methods. It aims to produce Medical Laboratory Scientists capable of serving in hospitals, research institutions, and the health industry.
3. Ahmadu Bello University
Ahmadu Bello University offers a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science program. The program provides theoretical and practical knowledge in the major areas of medical laboratory science including hematology, histopathology, medical microbiology, and clinical chemistry. The program aims to produce high-quality medical laboratory scientists.
4. University of Ibadan
The University of Ibadan offers a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science program. The program provides broad knowledge of theories and techniques in medical laboratory science. It aims to produce medical laboratory scientists capable of utilizing modern medical laboratory equipment and techniques for diagnosis, treatment, and research.
5. Obafemi Awolowo University
Obafemi Awolowo University offers a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science program. The program provides broad knowledge and skills in medical laboratory techniques and methods. It aims to produce high-quality medical laboratory scientists capable of serving competently in hospitals, research institutions, and health-related industries.
6. University of Benin
The University of Benin offers a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science program. The program provides theoretical and practical knowledge in medical laboratory science. It aims to produce medical laboratory scientists capable of utilizing modern medical laboratory equipment and techniques for diagnosis, treatment, and research.
7. Federal University Oye-Ekiti
The Federal University Oye-Ekiti offers a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science program. The program provides theoretical and practical knowledge in medical laboratory science. It aims to produce high-quality medical laboratory scientists capable of serving in hospitals, research institutions, and health-related industries.
Admission Requirements for Medical Lab Science Programs
To get into a medical laboratory science program, you’ll need to meet certain admission requirements. The specific criteria will vary between schools, but typically include:
1. Undergraduate Degree
Most medical lab science programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Any major is acceptable, though degrees in biology, chemistry, or a health science field may be preferred. If you’re still an undergrad, focus on taking courses in biology, chemistry, math, and statistics to prepare for the program.
2. Minimum GPA
You’ll typically need a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 to be considered for admission. The higher your GPA, especially in your science and math courses, the better your chances of getting accepted. Some schools may require a higher GPA, up to 3.5, so check with the programs you’re interested in.
3. Letters of Recommendation
Most medical lab science programs require two or three letters of recommendation from people who can speak to your abilities and potential in the field. Professors from your undergraduate science courses are
Course Structure and Duration
The medical laboratory science program typically lasts 4 years in Nigeria. The first year focuses on basic science courses like biology, chemistry, mathematics and English. The remaining 3 years involve professional courses in areas such as:
1. Hematology and Blood Banking
This course teaches you how to analyze blood samples to detect abnormalities. You'll learn about blood cells, blood groups and cross-matching techniques.
2. Histopathology
This course covers the study of changes in tissues and cells that cause disease. You'll learn how to prepare tissue samples, analyze them under a microscope and interpret results to determine diagnoses.
3. Medical Microbiology
This course covers the study of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses and parasites that can infect humans. You'll learn how to properly collect and handle specimens, culture and identify microbes, and determine appropriate treatment.
4. Chemical Pathology
This course involves the analysis of blood and body fluids to detect chemical abnormalities or imbalances. You'll learn how to accurately measure levels of substances like glucose, proteins, hormones and electrolytes in samples.
5. Parasitology
This course focuses on the study of parasites like protozoa, helminths and arthropods that can infest humans. You'll learn how to identify common parasites under a microscope, understand their life cycles, and determine appropriate treatment.
READ ALSO- List of Federal Universities in Oyo State 2024
Conclusion
In conclusion, the medical laboratory science program provides you with a solid foundation in laboratory techniques and helps develop skills that are useful for a career as a medical laboratory scientist. With hard work and persistence, you'll be set for a rewarding career helping to improve health outcomes.