Medical Laboratory Science is widely recognized, especially among Science students, as a prestigious course with numerous opportunities. Its competitive admission underscores the importance of carefully reviewing the requirements.
The course is open to both O’Level and Direct Entry students. O’Level applicants require WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB qualifications, while Direct Entry candidates can apply with a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a Bachelor’s degree.
What is Medical Laboratory Science?
Medical Laboratory Science is a study that analyzes blood, urine, and tissue samples to diagnose and monitor diseases. Professionals in this field, known as medical laboratory scientists, use advanced equipment to perform tests that are essential for the treatment and management of medical conditions.
Why Should I Study Medical Laboratory Science as a Course?
Studying Medical Laboratory Science is great because you learn to analyze samples like blood and urine, helping diagnose diseases. Embarking on a fulfilling career with abundant growth prospects is possible through MLS. By obtaining the necessary training and certification, you can establish a successful path in the medical field.
As a medical lab scientist, you play a vital role in healthcare by providing key information for treating different medical conditions, making it a fulfilling career.
Note: Please be aware that the requirements listed below may vary in some schools. In such cases, referring to the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for accurate information is recommended.
O’Level Requirements to Study Medical Laboratory Science
To study Medical Laboratory Science, you need to have obtained five (5) SSCE credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Direct Entry Requirements to Study Medical Laboratory Science
- ‘A’ level passes to include Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Zoology
- National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in relevant programmes with either an upper or lower credit respectively.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification with a minimum of Lower Credit.
Jamb Subject Combination for Medical Laboratory Science
- English
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Universities that Offer Medical Laboratory Science
- AAU – Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State
- ABSU – Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State
- ABUAD – Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
- ACHIEVERS – Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State
- BABCOCK – Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
- BAYERO – Bayero University, Kano, Kano State
- BENIN – University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State
- CALABAR – University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Medical Laboratory Science a Science course?
Yes, Medical Laboratory Science is basically a Science course. In most Nigerian Universities, it falls under the Faculty of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Health Sciences.
Can Commercial or Arts Students Study Medical Laboratory Science?
No, Commercial or Art Students will not be able to study Medical Laboratory Science due to the requirements in relevant science subjects. Nevertheless, students aspiring to pursue the course, regardless of whether they come from a commercial or arts background, should review the university’s unique entry criteria to which they intend to apply to. Some institutions may stipulate specific subject requirements for admission, and candidates may meet these criteria in the special consideration tab.
What Jobs can I apply for after studying Medical Laboratory Science?
After completing a degree in Medical Laboratory Science, you can pursue careers as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, Clinical Laboratory Technologist, Medical Laboratory Technician, Pathologist Assistant, Laboratory Manager, Quality Assurance Specialist, and Research Scientist, among others.
How many years does it take to Study Medical Laboratory Science?
It takes a minimum of 5 years to earn a degree in Medical Laboratory Science. However, if you are a direct entry student, this should take at least 4 years since you are more likely to start from the 200 Level.
How challenging is it to gain admission to study Medical Laboratory Science at Nigerian universities?
Medical Laboratory Science is highly competitive. Admission into these programs is usually based on a combination of high academic performance, particularly in the relevant science subjects, as well as success in entrance examinations like the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and sometimes post-UTME screenings conducted by the individual universities.
What is the cut-off mark for Medical Laboratory Science?
Students who score at least 140 in the JAMB UTME are eligible to participate in the POST UTME as part of the requirements for applying to study Medical Laboratory Science in their chosen universities.
Note: Understand that the conditions mentioned above might differ in some universities. In such instances, it is advisable to check the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for precise details. You can also access Jamb Subject Combination for other courses.
