Pre-Medical Lab Science

Explore the categories below to learn more about academic preparation, the application process, and experiential opportunities that can enhance your pre-medical lab science experience at UCCS. 

Choosing a Major 
Upon starting your undergraduate education, one of the first decisions you are faced with is choosing a major. MLS programs do not require applicants to complete a specific undergraduate major, as long as they have completed the required prerequisite coursework. It is important to choose a major that you both enjoy and can excel in academically.

In addition to selecting a major of your choice, you have the option to select the UCCS Pre-MLS Track. Pre-Medical Lab Science Preparation 2025-26

IMPORTANT: UCCS does not have a medical lab science certificate program. Pre-Medical Lab Science Prep is not a major or a minor, but a listing of prerequisite courses and recommendations needed to be eligible for admission to the Colorado Center for Medical Laboratory Science (CCMLS) at Metropolitan State University in Denver, CO. Medical Laboratory Scientist Program | MSU Denver

For information, contact Academic Advising at (719) 255-3260 or advising@uccs.edu.

*Completion of requisite coursework does not guarantee acceptance into any professional degree.

 

Preparation for applying to Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) certificate programs involves understanding program‑specific timelines and required application materials, as deadlines and procedures vary across institutions. Most MLS programs open their application windows several months before the cohort start date and require that all materials—such as official transcripts, prerequisite coursework verification, letters of recommendation, and any personal statements—be submitted by the program’s published deadline. 

Many MLS programs also provide checklists or recommended timelines for completing components such as identifying references, submitting application documents, and confirming health or background checks, helping applicants stay organized. Because MLS programs are accredited by organizations like the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) and must maintain rigorous standards, applicants should always consult each program’s official admissions webpage for the most current deadlines, requirements, and checklist tools.

Examination requirements for Medical Laboratory Science programs are generally limited and program dependent. Unlike some other health professions, MLS programs typically do not require a standardized admissions exam. Instead, admissions decisions are most often based on completion of prerequisite coursework, GPA, and other program-specific criteria. 

While standardized exams requirements are often uncommon for Medical Laboratory Science programs, it is always important for applicants to review individual program websites to confirm current admissions requirements and expectations.

Program Search - National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)

Prior to admission to a Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) certificate program, programs typically look for experiential learning that demonstrates familiarity with clinical laboratory environments and an understanding of the profession. While requirements vary by institution, the following types of experiences are commonly valued:

  • Clinical Laboratory Observation or Shadowing:
    Observing certified medical laboratory scientists or laboratory technicians in hospital or clinical labs helps applicants understand laboratory workflows, testing procedures, quality control, and professional responsibilities.

  • Healthcare or Hospital Experience:
    Work or volunteer experience in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare facilities (even outside the lab) is often viewed positively, as it shows exposure to patient care environments and healthcare systems.

  • Laboratory Coursework with Hands-On Components:
    College-level biology, chemistry, microbiology, or biochemistry labs provide foundational technical skills and familiarity with lab safety, instrumentation, and data analysis.

  • Research Laboratory Experience:
    Academic or industry research involving sample handling, data collection, or laboratory techniques can strengthen an application, especially if it demonstrates attention to detail and adherence to protocols.

  • Employment in Related Roles:
    Positions such as phlebotomy, specimen processing, laboratory aide/assistant, or quality control support are particularly valuable because they closely align with MLS responsibilities.

While formal shadowing hours are not always required for MLS certificate programs, relevant laboratory or healthcare experience can improve an applicant’s competitiveness and preparedness. Because expectations differ by program, applicants should review individual program websites to confirm whether observation hours or clinical exposure are required or recommended.

Additional Resources: 

UCCS Resources: