Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences – Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University

Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences – Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University

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Overview
Qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists are highly trained health professionals who work in pathology laboratories and play a crucial and integral role in the healthcare of South Africa.
It is a specialized profession providing analytical and diagnostic services to private and public pathology laboratories by analysis of blood, other body fluids and tissues samples.
Medical Laboratory Scientists can be employed at various pathology laboratories, in medical research, as well as food and pharmaceutical industries

ABOUT THE P ROGRAMME

Medical Laboratory Scientists are highly trained professionals who work in a pathology laboratory. It is their task to analyse blood and tissue samples for diagnostic purposes. They may also be required to prepare serums and vaccines and may become involved in medical research.
The four year BHSc Medical Laboratory Science includes the following disciplines:

  • Medical Microbiology – the study of micro-organisms
  • Clinical Chemistry – diagnostic biochemical analysis
  • Haematology – the study of blood cells and blood diseases
  • Cytology – the study of human cells
  • Histology – the study of human tissue

For the last 18 months of the programme, the four-year BHSC MLS degree includes WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING in accredited training laboratories. In the fourth year of studies, an area of specialisation in which they will practice will be selected from the following specialized disciplines*

  • Clinical Pathology
  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Haematology
  • Microbiology
  • Cytology
  • Histology
  • Cytogenetics
  • Immunohaematology
  • Immunology
  • Virology
  • Forensic Science
  • Pharmacology

*Please note that the offering of a specialisation will depend on the academic capacity, the number of enrolled students and positions available in practice.
At the end of their fourth year, students must pass a National Board Examination in their area of specialisation as part of their graduation requirements. In order to practice as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, the student needs to register with the HPCSA as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in the area of specialisation in which they obtain their qualification.

 

THE VISION

To develop exceptional fit-for-purpose medical laboratory scientists for South Africa through transformative and innovative education, underpinned by relevant world-class research.
 

THE MISSION

To strive for excellence in higher education by:  

  • Being a leading academic partner in strengthening health systems to become more equitable and responsive across all the services offered by pathology laboratories
  • Enhancing quality education in medical laboratory sciences to ensure proficient, capable and compassionate professionals
  • Advancing research to support innovation, strengthen practice and inform policy
  • Inspiring graduates to become visionary leaders in their workplaces, communities and professions.

Courses Offered

  • National Diploma in Biomedical Technology
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science .

IMPORTANT NOTICE
The three year National Diploma in Biomedical Technology is in the process of being phased out  and is replaced by the four year Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science pending final HPCSA approval.    See program info
The BTech Biomedical Technology will continue to be offered to ND Biomedical Technology graduates for the foreseeable future, but will ultimately be phased out.
 

Admission Requirements

  • Admission Points Score of 38.
  • Minimum NSC requirements for degree entry must be met.
  • English, Afrikaans or isiXhosa (Home Language or First Additional language) on at least level 4 (50-59%).
  • NSC achievement rating of at least 5 (60-69%) for Mathematics.
  • NSC achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Physical Sciences.
  • NSC achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Life Sciences.
  • Applicants with an Admissions Points Score between 35 and 37 may be referred to write the Access Assessment Test before a decision is made whether or not to admit the applicant to the course.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

A qualification in Medical Laboratory Science leads to an interesting in the field of medical science. Qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists can be employed in laboratories in blood transfusion services, private pathology practices, the National Health Laboratory Services, the Medical Research Council, forensic laboratories, veterinary practices and other disciplines such as pharmaceutical companies.
Those wishing to pursue a career in research can be employed in research laboratories at academic institutions. Registered Medical Laboratory Scientists may also apply for a license to practice in a private capacity in their own laboratories.

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University School of Medicinal Sciences
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