The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Certificate Program is a 12-month, post-baccalaureate professional program designed to prepare graduates for careers as Medical Laboratory Scientists. The program was developed by UNR Med and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in response to the growing need for highly qualified laboratory professionals throughout Nevada, particularly in rural and frontier communities.
The program combines online didactic instruction with hands-on clinical education at affiliated healthcare laboratories across Nevada. Students develop the knowledge, technical skills, critical thinking, and professional behaviors necessary for entry-level practice as Medical Laboratory Scientists.
Approved by the University in Spring 2026, the program is currently seeking accreditation from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Upon achieving accreditation, graduates will be eligible to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification examination, the nationally recognized credential for Medical Laboratory Scientists.
Medical laboratory scientists are highly skilled healthcare professionals who perform the laboratory testing that is essential for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of disease. Although they often work behind the scenes, their expertise is fundamental to modern healthcare. Physicians and other healthcare providers rely on the accuracy and timeliness of laboratory results to make informed decisions that directly impact patient care.
It is estimated that approximately 70% of medical decisions are influenced by laboratory test results. Medical laboratory scientists analyze blood, body fluids, tissues, and other patient specimens using sophisticated instrumentation, molecular technologies, and advanced scientific methods. They ensure the quality and reliability of laboratory testing, troubleshoot complex analytical problems, interpret laboratory data, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to support optimal patient outcomes.
Medical laboratory scientists work in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, reference laboratories, physician offices, public health laboratories, research institutions, biotechnology companies, forensic laboratories, and the diagnostic industry. The profession offers excellent career opportunities, competitive salaries, and the satisfaction of making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients every day.
As healthcare continues to advance through personalized medicine, molecular diagnostics, and laboratory automation, the demand for knowledgeable and highly trained medical laboratory scientists continues to grow. Graduates of the University of Nevada, Reno Medical Laboratory Science Certificate Program will be prepared to enter this rewarding profession and contribute to improving healthcare throughout Nevada and beyond.
Medical Laboratory Scientists work in a variety of specialized laboratory departments, including:
Professionals in these areas are responsible for analyzing specimens, operating and maintaining laboratory instruments, ensuring quality control, troubleshooting technical problems, and correlating laboratory findings with disease processes.
Medical Laboratory Scientists are vital members of the healthcare team and collaborate with physicians, nurses, pharmacists, infection prevention specialists, and other healthcare professionals to support patient diagnosis and treatment. Their work contributes to:
Medical Laboratory Scientists are employed in a wide range of settings, including:
The profession continues to experience strong demand nationwide due to workforce shortages and the increasing need for laboratory testing in healthcare.
Successful Medical Laboratory Scientists possess:
Medical Laboratory Science offers a challenging and rewarding career for individuals interested in science, technology, and healthcare. MLS professionals combine scientific knowledge with advanced laboratory skills to improve patient outcomes and contribute to the overall quality of healthcare delivery.
“A Life Saved” How the laboratory plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Daniel Mockler, M.D., FCAP
Associate Professor, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Director of Medical Laboratory Education
Email: dmockler@unr.edu
Silvia Amaro
Administrative Assistant 4, Surgery and Pathology & Lab Medicine
Email: samaro@med.unr.edu
Terry Kotrla, MS, MLS(ASCP)BB
Accreditation Consultant
Email: tkotrla@unr.edu
Per Federal Title 34.668.43 (a)(5)(v) & (c) the University must make certain disclosures regarding programs that lead to professional licensure or certification.
