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Bachelor of Science in Biology: Pre-Medical Laboratory Science

Pre-Professional Programs

Pre-Medical Laboratory Science

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Build a strong foundation to launch your medical laboratory career

Mercy College’s Pre-Medical Laboratory Science track of the Bachelor of Science in Biology program equips students to become a medical laboratory scientist (MLS).

Also known as a clinical laboratory scientist (CLS), these medical professionals work with lab data to discover the presence or absence of disease. Scientists in this field are highly skilled analysts. As part of their role, they help physicians determine the best treatment plan for the patient based on data and science.

In the Pre-Medical Laboratory Scientist track, students gain the specific coursework and experiences necessary to start their career, continue their education, or explore related career paths.

Charlotte Wright
Mercy is unique in the amount of care and compassion that the professors show throughout your program.

I built such wonderful relationships with professors, and they truly do want you to succeed.”

Charlotte Wright

Bachelor of Science in Biology ‘15

The Biology program's flexible design supports each student's individual career goals. The curriculum incorporates courses covering a range of maths and sciences. In each course, expect personal attention and 1:1 support from experienced faculty.

Career Outlook

Employment Growth

Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook: Employment of Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS), also called technologists, is projected to grow 17 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. An increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures.

Salary Range

2020 Median Pay for MLS was $91,510 annually.

Admission Requirements

Mercy College students in good standing can declare a biology major. High school science courses (Biology and Chemistry with a lab) or their college equivalents must be taken within the past seven years with a “C” or better prior to the first semester. For students to progress to the third semester of the program, the mathematics prerequisites must be met. Mathematics prerequisites are as follows: high school courses or their college equivalents within the past seven years with a “C” or better including Algebra I; Algebra II and Trigonometry or Pre-Calculus or an integrated sequence of advanced math courses (Statistics, Business Math, and/or computer courses will not fulfill this requirement). All program courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better.

Biology Program : Estimate Your Expenses

Mercy College is the #1 college in the region for return on investment. Calculate your estimated initial expenses.

Professional Organizations

  • External LinkThe American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)


    The mission of ASCLS is to make a positive impact in health care through leadership that will assure excellence in the practice of laboratory medicine.

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  • External LinkNational Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS)


    The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science is committed to being the premier international agency for accreditation and approval of education programs in the clinical laboratory sciences and related health care professions.

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