In collaboration with the University of Louisiana-Monroe, LDCC now offers a 65-credit medical laboratory technician associate's degree of applied science. This degree consists of three distinct exit points including a phlebotomy credential, a certificate of technical studies, and the associate’s degree. 

Students in this program will not only take courses with LDCC faculty, but also be instructed by ULM professors and have access to ULM labs and resources. Progression to a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences is available through University of Louisiana Monroe.   Any student wishing to explore this option should contact the ULM MLS program to inquire about admission requirements and courses required to complete the Bachelor's degree.

Program Description:

When patients seek medical assistance, diagnostic information is essential, necessitating the conduction of laboratory tests. Whether a patient visits for a regular checkup or reports specific symptoms, healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and medical assistants, gather samples of blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids in a clinical setting. These samples are then forwarded to a laboratory, where medical lab technicians evaluate them for diagnostic purposes. This information is critical to allowing physicians to make informed decisions about their care.

The program for Medical Laboratory Technicians aims to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required for employment in medical laboratories. Graduates will be adept at conducting diagnostic tests crucial for aiding physicians in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. Proficiency in chemistry, biology, and mathematics is essential for prospective students. Training encompasses the use of microscopes, computers, and various instruments for analyzing body fluids, tissues, and cells. Upon completion, technicians can pursue opportunities in hospital laboratories, clinics, doctors' offices, blood banks, and research and commercial laboratories.

Learning Outcomes:

• Achieve proficient execution of blood and body fluid analyses with minimal supervision.
• Exhibit competency in performing standard laboratory procedures across key clinical laboratory areas, encompassing Clinical Chemistry, Hematology/Hemostasis, Urinalysis/Body Fluids, Microbiology, Immunology, Immunohematology, and Laboratory Operations.
• Recognize test principles, methodologies, the significance of test results, reference ranges, alert values, and sources of test variability.
• Ensure the precision and validity of test results through the application of appropriate quality control and quality assurance protocols.
• Execute basic analytic techniques, showcase the appropriate use of laboratory instrumentation, and employ suitable trouble-shooting procedures when necessary.
• Adhere to laboratory safety regulations, encompassing the proper handling of biologic specimens and the safe use of chemicals and equipment.
• Identify sources of pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic errors, and correlate test results with disease processes.
• Interpret quality control data and initiate corrective action when control results deviate from acceptable limits.
• Respond effectively to stress, time constraints, and changes in the workplace.
• Accurately report test results using laboratory information systems and other communication methods.
• Demonstrate a dedicated commitment to patients, the profession, and ongoing professional development.

Due to the overwhelming response, our MLT Program will not be accepting any new applicants for the cohort beginning in the Fall 2024 Semester. Applications for the next academic year will open March 1st, 2025.