Medical Laboratory Science Program
Training Future Medical Laboratory Scientists
As part of Penn State Health's mission to "the professional preparation of those who will serve the health needs of others," the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine offers a Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Program.
The 11-month training program results in a certificate in medical laboratory science from Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center while fulfilling requirements for a bachelor’s-level degree in a Medical Laboratory Science-related major from the affiliating college or university.
The program typically fulfills the student's senior year of college (3+1 option), but applicants with a BS degree (4+1) who meet the entrance requirements will be considered.
The mission of the program is to prepare individuals for the practice of medical laboratory science and provide qualified laboratory professionals for Penn State Health's needs, as well as regional, national and global needs. The curriculum encompasses didactic and clinical experiences; the development of professional and leadership skills; and a commitment to life-long learning. The program promotes the values of respect for others, integrity, teamwork, and excellence in providing the high-quality care patients need and deserve.
The program culminates with the student attaining career-entry competence as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.
Get in Touch
The Medical Laboratory Science Program at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center accepts applications at certain times of the year.
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What Graduates Are Saying
"The medical laboratory science profession allows me to use my critical thinking skills and be challenged in order to help a patient get the best and most appropriate care."
- Mya, 2022 Graduate
"By having a smaller, more personal class size, the instructors are able to go out of their way to ensure you understand the concepts and will help you in any way they can both in and out of the classroom. The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey MLS program did a great job preparing me for my job in the microbiology lab here at Hershey and was the most educational year I had throughout my time in college."
- Michael Orris, 2022 Graduate
"I wanted to work in health care but I knew patient care was not for me, when I found the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center MLS program, I knew that is what I wanted to do. This program is exceptional in making sure the student is taught everything that is required and as well as understanding everything. One of the best things about this program is being able to be fully immersed in the Clinical Laboratories but also being able to see the special laboratories Hershey has to offer. All the staff including lecturers and lab staff, is equally welcoming and eager to help the students! Being in this program was one of the toughest yet most rewarding years of my life and I would recommend this program to anyone!"
- Megan Aloi, 2022 Graduate