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Medical Laboratory Assistant

CampusStart DateTuition/Fees
Saint JohnSeptember 2025 ºÚÁÏÉç (Blended Delivery) Domestic | International
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Program Overview

Medical Laboratory Assistants interact with patients and the public. You’ll learn how to collect and prepare specimens for analysis, and perform data entry and clerical services in the lab. Our program offers on site learning in hospital laboratory settings. With the increase of New Brunswick’s aging population, skilled Medical Laboratory Assistants to perform phlebotomy and prepare specimens for analysis and tests are in demand.

Duration

The requirements for this certificate program may be achieved within one year 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 assistants (MLAs) 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.
           
          MLAs can work directly with patients, collecting blood and performing electrocardiograms (ECGs). There are also opportunities to focus on day-to-day logistics and operations including inventory management and organizing lab spaces. MLAs can also support medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) by preparing and analyzing samples, assisting with tests, and managing laboratory equipment. 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. Whether you're working behind the scenes or face-to-face with patients, the MLA 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

          To function efficiently in a clinical setting, the Medical Laboratory Assistant must possess good manual dexterity, precision, accuracy, dependability and organizational skills. They must also be able to work well under pressure and pay very close attention to detail. Good health and a good level of physical fitness and stamina are essential. In addition, the nature of this occupation requires a sincere desire to work with and help other people, at times under trying circumstances. Students are required to interact with patients while performing tasks such as drawing blood. A mature outlook is essential.

          Proof of Immunization

          Upon acceptance, you will be asked to submit proof of immunization prior to commencement of training, by following the instructions on the standardized ºÚÁÏÉç . Hepatitis B immunization is expected for those who are accepted. It should be noted that certain immunizations are required for anyone entering a training program involving a practicum that takes place in a hospital or related setting.

          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.

          In addition, various health facilities throughout the province may require the completion of their medical/immunization form and a police record and vulnerable sector check before clinical practicums can occur. Health facilities may also require proof of valid CPR certification prior to the beginning of each clinical practicum. It is your responsibility to attain and maintain this certification.

          You may be expected to travel to clinical sites outside the campus area, and potentially around the province. Costs incurred for travel and accommodation are at your own expense.

          The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) is the national certifying body for medical laboratory assistants, and the national professional society for Canada's medical laboratory professionals.

          Graduates will be eligible to write the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) National Certification examination. This voluntary national certification provides graduates with recognition of their competence to practice within a set of national standards and a professional credential recognized by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science and the Council on National Certification.

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

          For further information regarding Medical Laboratory Science, please refer to the following websites:
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          Several courses associated with this program are transferable to the Medical Laboratory Technology program.

          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 and critical thinking
          • Clinical laboratory environments
          • Blood collection and clinical sample preparation
          • Anatomy and physiology
          • Medical terminology
          • Trauma-informed, culturally competent professional practice
          • Laboratory fundamentals
          • Clinical chemistry
          • Microbiology
          • Hematology
          • Histotechnology

          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 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

          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 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 practice pre-analytical laboratory procedures with an emphasis on the proper preparation of specimens to ensure quality laboratory testing.

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1061A
          • LPTL1065A

          This course introduces learners to Point of Care Testing (POCT) instruments and medical equipment. Emphasis is placed on safety, professionalism, and critical thinking during client interactions.

          Prerequisites:

          • ANAT1044A
          • SECU1322C
          • SECU1359A

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

          Prerequisites:

          • LPTL1063A
          • LPTL1067A
          • LPTL1068A
          • GENE1009A

          This course is designed to allow learners an opportunity to prepare for the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) 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. 

          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 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.

          NOC Codes

          33101 - Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations

          Articulation Agreements

          Institution: Maine Community College
          Information: A full credit recognition and transfer agreement exists for all relevant programs delivered at each institution.

          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.