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Medical Laboratory Technology

CampusStart DateTuition/Fees
Saint JohnSeptember 2025 ºÚÁÏÉç (Blended Delivery) - Not available for New Applications Domestic

Program Overview

Medical Laboratory Technologists are excited by life under a microscope. They work with laboratory equipment to conduct and analyze microscopic, immunologic, biologic, bacteriologic, hematologic, and chemical tests. You'll learn how to evaluate the technical validity of bodily specimens, and how to perform laboratory investigations related to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. The demand for qualified Medical Laboratory Technologists is high and your work will feel meaningful as an important member of a healthcare team.


Duration

The requirements for this diploma program may be achieved within two and one-half years of full-time study.


Admission Requirements

    Profile K

  • High School Diploma or Adult High School Diploma or GED Diploma of High School Equivalency or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) or Essential Skills Achievement Pathway: Post-Secondary Entry High School Diploma
    • Foundations of Mathematics 110
      • Biology 112 or 122
        • Chemistry 112 or 122

          NB Francophone High School Math Equivalencies
          International Student Admission Equivalencies


          Career Possibilities

          Medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) are necessary to keep up with the growing number of people requiring laboratory diagnostic services. Labs are fast-paced environments that require skilled and dedicated laboratory professionals. This makes it an excellent career choice with strong job security and opportunities for advancement.
           
          Laboratory medicine has many specialized areas: Clinical chemistry (testing body fluids for indicators of disease), Hematology (analyzing blood for its cellular elements), Transfusion Medicine (matching blood products to the patient), Microbiology (identifying microorganisms that cause infection), and Histology (preparing tissue samples for abnormalities). Although hospitals and healthcare facilities are the most common workplaces, our graduates also work in research centres, public health, pharmaceutical, and other industries.
           
          Schedules may consist of days, evenings, weekends, and nights.
           
          The program at ºÚÁÏÉç will prepare graduates to take competency assessments (examinations) in five fields of practice.

          MLT Chart

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          Whether you're working behind the scenes or face-to-face with patients, the MLT program is a great starting point to launch your career in the growing healthcare industry. This profession offers more than just a job—it provides the opportunity to help people, every shift, every day.



          Specific Considerations

          Good health and a good level of physical fitness and stamina are essential. Individuals with colour blindness will find difficulty with certain aspects of required microscopic work and should contact the program directly. MLTs must have a strong attention to detail, critical and analytical skills are essential. The ability to multi-task, prioritize and communication skills are also essential. Good motor skills, manual dexterity, hand eye coordination, and the ability to work in a rapidly changing environment are needed. In addition to analytical work, students are required to interact with patients while performing tasks such as drawing blood. Prior to the beginning of the applied workplace experience, host facilities throughout the province may require the completion of an , proof of valid CPR Level C Lifesaver certification, and specific immunizations. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that he or she has met these requirements.

          Mandatory Clearance Requirements

          To protect the health and safety of students during their clinical/practicum placements, as well as anyone they may encounter, students will be obligated to complete mandatory clearance requirements as a part of the process of being assigned a placement. There will be a cost associated with completing these requirements, which has been calculated as part of the Material Cost of this program. Students who do not complete the requirements will be unable to attend their clinical/practicum placements, which could impact eligibility for the required courses or industry facility visits needed to complete their program. See Clinical/Practicum Placement Requirements for more details.

          Host agencies require students to provide a current criminal record check and vulnerable sector check from a recognized police service in order to be considered for an applied workplace experience. Individuals who have been convicted criminally and not pardoned may be prohibited from proceeding to a work placement. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that he or she is eligible to participate.

          There is a strong possibility due to the number of clinical placements available, in order to complete your practicum, you will be required to travel to clinical sites outside the Saint John area for a six month period. The practicum is required to graduate from the Medical Laboratory Technology Program. Costs incurred for travel and accommodation are at your own expense.

          International applicants are not currently eligible for this program.

          Accreditation
          For information regarding relevant , see the website. Accreditation Canada is responsible for the programs across Canada.

          Technology Requirements
          ºÚÁÏÉç is a connected learning environment. All programs require a minimum specification, including access to the internet and a laptop. Your computer should meet your program technology requirements to ensure the software required for your program operates effectively. Free wifi is provided on all campuses.


          Areas of Study

          • Therapeutic, professional, and interpersonal communication and collaboration
          • Ethical and legal practice
          • Health and safety
          • Quality assurance
          • Mathematical problem solving, critical thinking, and clinical assessment
          • Clinical laboratory environments
          • Blood collection
          • Diagnostic testing of clinical samples
          • Anatomy and physiology
          • Medical terminology
          • Pathophysiology
          • Clinical Chemistry
          • Hematology
          • Transfusion medicine
          • Clinical Microbiology
          • Histotechnology
          • Molecular Diagnostics
          • Trauma-informed, culturally competent professional practice


          Program Courses

          Courses are subject to change.

          This course introduces learners to the structure and function of the human body in its healthy state. Learners examine individual body systems, components, and processes and how they interrelate to maintain homeostasis. 

          This course introduces learners to knowledge of body fluids and their specific analytical techniques. Emphasis is placed on microscopic identification of urinary elements, including methodologies and specimen requirements. 

          Prerequisites:

          • ANAT1044A

          This course is designed to introduce learners to chemistry concepts, including organic chemistry, focusing on biologically significant molecules, their metabolism, and its relationship to homeostasis. 

          In this course, learners apply knowledge of body fluid analytical techniques used in a urinalysis laboratory. Emphasis is placed on practicing microscopic identification of urinary elements, including methodologies and specimen requirements.

          Prerequisites:

          • BIOC1028A
          • LPTL1065A

          In this course, learners are introduced to clinical chemistry analytes (substances and compounds in the body that can be analyzed) and their relationship to human physiology. Emphasis is placed on analyte characteristics and the testing methods used to detect them.

          Prerequisites:

          • BIOC1029A

          In this course, learners expand foundational knowledge of clinical chemistry to include fluid balance, hormones (thyroid, adrenal, reproductive), and drug monitoring. Emphasis is placed on acid base interpretation and correlation of analytical results to pathophysiological states. 

          Prerequisites:

          • BIOC1029A

          In this course learners apply knowledge of clinical chemistry analysis, protocols and procedures of testing, and the interpretation of results. Emphasis is placed on the accuracy of test results and correlating with the client’s clinical status.

          Prerequisites:

          • BIOC1031A
          • BIOC1032A
          • LPTL1065A
          • QUAL1116A

          In this clinical experience, learners practice clinical chemistry skills and laboratory procedures for processing specimens. Competency-based objectives are achieved according to the national competency profile for entry-to-practice Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs).

          Prerequisites:

          • BIOC1030A
          • BIOC1033A

          This course focuses on developing the knowledge, attitudes, and skills required to manage healthcare challenges and guide ethical decision-making. Learners explore healthcare professional's ethical expectations and legal responsibilities. Utilizing personal reflection and critical thinking, learners apply ethical principles, theories, attitudes, and values expected of medical laboratory professionals.  

          This course introduces learners to the fundamental knowledge of clinical genetic techniques used in the laboratory. Emphasis is placed on DNA and RNA extraction/isolation and quantification. 
           

          Prerequisites:

          • ANAT1044A
          • LPTL1061A

          This course allows learners the opportunity to utilize clinical genetics techniques. Emphasis is placed on DNA and/or RNA extraction/isolation and quantification. 

          Prerequisites:

          • GENE1008A
          • LPTL1065A

          In this course, learners are introduced to basic techniques in the field of clinical genetics. Emphasis is placed on Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and its application in the clinical laboratory.

          Prerequisites:

          • GENE1009A

          This course is designed to introduce the professional language of medical terminology and abbreviations. Learners will decipher terminology in order to understand the meaning and use of language associated with various body systems. 

          This course introduces the learner to reading comprehension and academic writing. The learner will employ foundational reading and writing skills to enhance communication in the academic and workplace setting.   

          This course introduces learners to the healthcare system's history, delivery, and components as it aligns with medical laboratory science. Learners explore the medical laboratory professional’s role in the Canadian healthcare system as they aspire to meet the professional expectations of their designation and applicable licensing bodies.  

          This course introduces learners to the physiological processes involved in coagulation and maintaining blood vessel integrity. Emphasis is placed on the elements of coagulation (platelets, clotting factors), the initiation of this process, disorders affecting clotting, and diagnostic processes involved in clinical laboratory testing.

          Prerequisites:

          • ANAT1044A

          This course allows learners the opportunity to apply knowledge of hemostasis to produce, interpret, and correlate results. Emphasis is placed on the operation of laboratory instrumentation to assess the validity of results by following established protocols and procedures.

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1065A
          • HEMT1000A

          This course introduces learners to hematology foundations, including peripheral blood cells and their role and development in the body. Emphasis is placed on accurate identification based on morphological features unique to each cell type. 

          Prerequisites:

          • IMMU1000A

          In this course, learners apply theoretical knowledge to a peripheral blood film, identifying cell types based on unique morphological features. Learners utilize Neubauer counting chambers for manual cell counts and automated instrumentation for hematological testing. Emphasis is placed on safety, accuracy in the identification process, and adherence to established protocols and procedures.

          Prerequisites:

          • HEMT1000A
          • LPTL1065A

          This course introduces learners to non-malignant and malignant blood cell disorders observed in peripheral blood and bone marrow films. Emphasis is placed on red blood cell disorders (anemia) and white blood cell disorders (leukemia).

          Prerequisites:

          • HEMT1001A

          In this course, learners apply knowledge of blood cell disorders to identify disease states in peripheral blood films. Emphasis is placed on accurate identification and quantification of non-malignant and malignant blood cell disorders.

          Prerequisites:

          • HEMT1002A

          In this clinical experience, learners practice hematology skills and laboratory procedures for processing specimens. Competency-based objectives are achieved according to the national competency profile for entry-to-practice Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs).

          Prerequisites:

          • HEMT1003A
          • HEMO1001A

          This course introduces learners to the preparation process for microscopic examination of biological tissue samples, including common disease conditions requiring biopsy. Emphasis is placed on the use of chemicals for fixation and staining.

          Prerequisites:

          • ANAT1044A
          • BIOC1029A
          • HCSS1086AA

          In this course, learners apply theoretical knowledge to prepare and process human tissue for pathologist review/diagnosis in an anatomical pathology laboratory. Learners section, stain, and view tissue using microscopy, identifying the microanatomy of normal tissue. Emphasis is placed on the preparation process and accuracy in the identification of normal tissue.

          Prerequisites:

          • HITO1000A
          • LPTL1065A

          In this course, learners gain knowledge about staining methods and their role in differentiating tissues at the microscopic level. Learners explore the purpose, procedures, and troubleshooting of staining methods. Emphasis is placed on the chemical nature of stains and tissues to predict/explain how the tissue will ultimately appear upon microscopic examination.

          Prerequisites:

          • HITO1000A
          • IMMU1000A

          In this course, learners apply microtomy and time management skills to produce tissue slides for submission to a pathologist. Emphasis is placed on sectioning tissue and evaluating QC of stains for expected outcomes.

          Prerequisites:

          • HITO1002A

          In this clinical experience, learners practice histotechnology skills and laboratory procedures for processing specimens. Competency-based objectives are achieved according to the national competency profile for entry-to-practice Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs).

          Prerequisites:

          • HITO1003A

          This course introduces learners to the fundamentals of immunology. Emphasis is placed on immune responses and testing that utilizes immunological properties. 

          Prerequisites:

          • ANAT1044A

          This course introduces learners to the uses and processes of basic clinical laboratory calculations and equipment. Emphasis is placed on the foundational knowledge required to develop proper laboratory techniques and the importance of adhering to standard laboratory procedures and protocols.

          This course provides an opportunity for learners to apply fundamental laboratory knowledge and skills in a simulated clinical setting. Emphasis is placed on adhering to protocols, following established procedures, and the safe use of laboratory equipment.

          Prerequisites:

          • SECU1322C
          • SECU1359A
          • LPTL1059A

          This course introduces learners to laboratory quality systems and specimen testing requirements. Emphasis is placed on specimen collection, identification, storage, retention, transportation, and disposal to ensure safe and accurate laboratory testing.

          This course introduces learners to proper techniques for collecting and handling specimens. Emphasis is placed on the integrity of specimens collected to ensure quality laboratory tests. 

          Prerequisites:

          • ANAT1044A
          • LPTL1061A

          This course allows learners to practice established techniques for the collection and handling of specimens. Emphasis is placed on pre-analytical procedures ensuring quality laboratory processing. 

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1062A
          • SECU1322C
          • SECU1359A

          This course examines the theory of microscopy and light-measuring systems used in the medical laboratory field. Emphasis is placed on knowledge required for operating laboratory instrumentation. 

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1060A

          This course uses the theory of microscopy and light-measuring systems found in the medical laboratory field. Emphasis is placed on skills required for operating laboratory instrumentation. 

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1064A

          In this course, learners utilize their knowledge of clinical laboratory instruments and expand new methodologies and operational principles to include luminescence, POCT, chromatography, and mass spectrometry.

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1064A

          In this clinical experience learners practice receiving, organizing, and preparing specimens for analysis in a laboratory. Competency-based objectives are achieved according to the national competency profile for entry-to-practice Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs).

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1063A

          In this clinical experience, learners practice phlebotomy skills and laboratory procedures for handling specimens. Competency-based objectives are achieved according to the national competency profile for entry-to-practice Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs).

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1063A

          This course is designed to allow learners an opportunity to prepare for the Canadian Alliance of Medical Laboratory Professionals Regulators (CAMLPR) national certification examination. Comprehensive exam results help identify strengths and areas for improvement in theoretical knowledge, as well as develop study plans to address the identified gaps and learning needs. Emphasis is placed on utilizing personalized study guides and instructor feedback to reinforce the key concepts and competencies in preparation for this national certification examination.

          This course provides an introduction to alterations in mental health. The learner will explore the history of mental health care, concepts of mental health, common alterations, techniques to prevent and manage aggressive behavior, and strategies to support well-being for the client and self. 

          This course introduces learners to clinical microbiology. This foundational course explores the role of microorganisms in human health and disease. Emphasis is placed on the relationships between humans and microscopic organisms and the presence of disease in health care in the context of a clinical laboratory setting. 

          In this course, learners differentiate the characteristics of gram-positive and fastidious gram-negative bacteria including the identification process for both. Emphasis is placed on safety when handling and processing regulated materials in the microbiology laboratory environment.

          Prerequisites:

          • MICR1045A

          In this course, learners identify gram-positive and fastidious gram-negative bacteria. Emphasis is placed on safety, proper handling, and processing of regulated materials by following established protocols and procedures.

          Prerequisites:

          • MICR1046A
          • LPTL1065A

          In this course learners differentiate the characteristics of the bacteria in the order Enterobacterales, as well as non-fermenting gram-negative bacilli. Emphasis is placed on the identification process and safety when handling regulated materials in the microbiology laboratory.

          Prerequisites:

          • MICR1046A

          In this course, learners identify gram-negative bacilli in the order Enterobacterales and non-fermenting gram-negative bacilli. Emphasis is placed on safety, proper handling, and processing of regulated materials by following established protocols and procedures.

          Prerequisites:

          • MICR1047A
          • MICR1048A

          In this course, learners gain comprehensive knowledge of the processing of clinical microbiological specimens required to generate accurate results. Emphasis is placed on protocols and procedures that determine how clinical specimens are processed.

          Prerequisites:

          • MICR1049A

          In this course, learners process clinical microbiology specimens and cultures. Learners record observations, test reactions, and identify clinically significant isolates by performing identification and susceptibility testing. Emphasis is placed on safety, proper handling and processing of microbiology specimens and regulated materials by following established protocols and procedures.

          Prerequisites:

          • MICR1050A

          In this clinical experience, learners practice clinical microbiology skills and laboratory procedures for processing specimens. Competency-based objectives are achieved according to the national competency profile for entry-to-practice Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs).

          Prerequisites:

          • MICR1051A
          • GENE1010A

          This course provides an introduction to the meaning of community service.  Students learn how community service can enhance a student’s educational experience, personal growth, employability, and civic responsibility. Students participate in one day of volunteering to enhance their understanding of civic responsibility and to help the New Brunswick Community College realize its vision of transforming lives and communities. 

          This course introduces learners to methods and considerations for ensuring quality results in a clinical laboratory. Learners gain knowledge about quality assurance and quality control techniques with an emphasis on statistical analysis and problem-solving skills to determine the validity of clinical laboratory results. 

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1059A
          • LPTL1061A

          This course is designed to introduce learners to the intricacies of human relation dynamics within the healthcare environment. Emphasis is placed on interpersonal and intrapersonal strategies that promote professionalism, professional growth and cultivate a positive, supportive workplace culture. 

          In New Brunswick, everyone in the workplace, including employers and employees, is responsible for their own health and safety and for the health and safety of those around them. This course introduces students to the importance of working safely and addresses how employers, supervisors, and employees can control the hazards and risks associated with the workplace. Students also learn about the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders including WorkSafeNB, the employer, the supervisor, and the employee in ensuring workplaces are safe.

          This course introduces learners to established protocols and procedures required for safe laboratory practices. Concepts covered in this course include biological, chemical and physical hazards, workplace ergonomics, laboratory controls, equipment, waste disposal, spill clean-up, and relevant governing legislation.

          This course introduces learners to clinically significant blood groups and processes for antibody identification and interpretation. Emphasis is placed on blood group antigen and antibody analysis.

          Prerequisites:

          • IMMU1000A
          • GENE1008A

          In this course, learners apply knowledge of blood groups to analyze, interpret, and correlate transfusion medicine results. Emphasis is placed on processing specimens following established protocols and procedures.

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1065A
          • TMED1000A

          In this course, learners expand on the foundations of transfusion medicine to include knowledge of auto-immune hemolytic anemias, blood components, compatibility testing, transfusion reactions, and quality assurance.

          Prerequisites:

          • TMED1001A

          In this course, learners apply their knowledge of blood products, compatibility testing, and transfusion reactions to optimize health outcomes for clients. Emphasis is placed on testing blood product compatibility and investigating transfusion reactions.

          Prerequisites:

          • TMED1002A

          In this clinical experience, learners practice transfusion medicine skills and laboratory procedures for processing specimens. Competency-based objectives are achieved according to the national competency profile for entry-to-practice Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs).

          Prerequisites:

          • TMED1003A


          NOC Codes

          32120 - Medical laboratory technologists


          Articulation Agreements

          Institution: University of New Brunswick Saint John - Faculty of Business
          Information: Bachelor of Applied Management Degree
          ºÚÁÏÉç graduates of any 2 year diploma program with a GPA of 70% or greater receive 2 years full credit toward this degree and will be eligible to enter year 3 of the 4 year Bachelor of Applied Management (BAM) program.


          Institution: UNB Fredericton
          Information: The Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) Degree is offered through the Faculty of Science in partnership with ºÚÁÏÉç in Saint John.  Enrollment will be limited and based on availability of seats in the ºÚÁÏÉç Medical Laboratory Technology program.  Students may enter the program only with approval from the Dean of Science or the program Director.  The BMLS degree requires completion of the MLT program either prior to or after completion of 84 credit hours courses at UNB.  For graduation, students must have completed the UNB portion of the degree as well as 2.5 years of the MLT program at ºÚÁÏÉç and must have passed the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science exams required for professional practice.

          External Certifications

          Medical Laboratory Technology graduates may have an opportunity to acquire the following external certifications upon meeting the external agencies certification requirements and paying any required fees to the external agency:

          Institution: Canadian Alliance of Medical Laboratory Professionals Regulators (CAMLPR)
          External Certification: Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT)
          Information: The student may challenge the CAMLPR national certification examination. Once the student becomes certified by the CAMLPR, they can apply for licensure with the provincial regulator, the New Brunswick Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists (NBSMLT), and may be given the designated title of Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) by the regulator. This certification provides the technologist with mobility options throughout most of the country and in other parts of the world.


          Disclaimer: This web copy provides guidance to prospective students, applicants, current students, faculty and staff. Although advice is readily available on request, the responsibility for program selection ultimately rests with the student. Programs, admission requirements and other related information is subject to change.