School of Health Sciences

Medical Laboratory Technology

Diploma
Medical Laboratory Technology

Program Overview

This program will be subject to the High-Demand admission process effective for the Fall 2021 intake. It opens for application on October 1, and closes on February 15, each academic year. On February 15, paper applications are accepted until 4:30 p.m., and online applications are accepted until 11:59 p.m. (Saskatchewan times). All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time) on March 1.

If you’re interested in the science and technology of health care, consider a career as a medical laboratory technologist. It will immerse you in an exciting diagnostic environment, working both independently and as part of a team to perform complex procedures and tests on all types of human specimens. You need to be meticulous, detail-oriented, committed to high standards and have aptitudes for critical thinking as well as math and science. If this sounds like you, check out Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Medical Laboratory Technology program.

Medical Laboratory Technology is a nationally accredited two-and-a-half-year diploma program offered at Saskatchewan Polytechnic in Saskatoon. Experienced instructors guide you through a well-rounded curriculum that includes classroom theory, lab work and actual clinical experiences. You’ll learn about:

  • clinical chemistry and microbiology
  • hematology and hemopathology
  • histotechnology and immunology
  • laboratory practice
  • specimen collection and handling
  • transfusion science

Build Practical Skills

Class time is augmented by hands-on training in labs. You’ll also get 42 weeks of clinical practicum experience in hospitals and laboratories around the province, including placements in different settings to gain specific laboratory experiences, organizational skills and technical competence.

Diploma to Degree

Use your Medical Laboratory Technology diploma to ladder into a degree program at the University of Regina or Athabasca University (Alberta). A degree is usually required if you are interested in moving into management or teaching positions.

Serve in the Canadian Forces

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Medical Laboratory Technology program is recognized by the Canadian Forces, which means you can qualify for CF Paid Education funding. You receive advanced standing as a Medical Laboratory Technologist, which earns you a higher pay rate than graduates of non-CF recognized programs. Visit cafcod-rpfcfac.forces.gc.ca for more information.

Learning Environment

Each year, 40 students are accepted to this program. Students will experience a mix of traditional lectures, web-assisted learning, practical labs and clinical practicums that will increase in length as the program progresses.

For this program, there is a heavy workload with 20 - 30 hours/week of homework. Classes are Monday - Friday with variable hours between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Clinical practicum hours will coincide with health care hours, and may include early morning start times (5 or 6 a.m.), evening, night and weekend shifts.

Lectures and Practical labs: Saskatoon

Clinical Practicum Experiences
Clinical practicum placement may occur at any approved site in Saskatchewan.
Note: all sites require a rotation at a secondary site to meet program requirements

  • 42-week clinical, which includes:
    • One week in second year at a location outside of Saskatoon
    • 22 weeks in second year and 19 weeks in third year at an approved site within Saskatchewan.
    • Alternate sites may be required in second year and third year to meet program requirements.

Clinical practicum experiences are assigned by the Medical Diagnostics Committee on Practicum Placements (COPP). Students will have an opportunity to rank their preferred clinical sites. However, due to limited clinical placements in each location there is no guarantee that students will receive a clinical site assignment from their list of preferred sites. Students must be prepared to attend their assigned placement at any of the clinical sites in the province.

Not all clinical facilities are easily accessible by public transportation; students assigned to these sites must have access to personal transportation. Students are responsible for travel, accommodation arrangements and costs to, during and from clinical experience. Students will continue with their didactic students through online learning while on their clinical experience, and stable internet access is required.

Enrolment in the program will require acceptance of a clinical placement anywhere within Saskatchewan. Clinical placements are determined during the program closer to the dates for practicum experiences.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Medical laboratory technologists work for regional health districts, government health agencies, educational institutions and both private and public labs. You could work in a hospital, community clinic, research lab, industrial lab or veterinary clinic.

Potential Careers

Sample Job TitleNOC Classification1Earning Potential2
Medical Laboratory Technologist (I/II/III)Medical Laboratory Technologists (3211)$49,200 - $93,600
Medical Laboratory Technologist SupervisorMedical Laboratory Technologists (3211)$49,200 - $93,600

What's the Work Like?

As a Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLT) and MLT student, you:

  • Use Personal Protective Equipment to protect yourself from biohazardous materials, including blood and other body fluids such as urine and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF).
  • Perform capillary punctures and venipunctures (i.e. insert needles) to collect blood samples. 
  • Prepare samples, such as blood, body fluids and tissues for diagnostic testing. 
  • Work with expensive, computerized equipment, as well as manual tests to obtain patient results. 
  • Make critical decisions as to the accuracy and validity of patient test results before reporting to the physician who uses the results to aid with patient diagnosis, treatment and outcomes. 
  • Perform diagnostic tests in all of the following medical laboratory areas:
    • Clinical chemistry;
    • Hematology; 
    • Histotechnology; 
    • Microbiology; 
    • Molecular biology; 
    • Transfusion science. 
  • Must be licensed with the Saskatchewan Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists (SSMLT) to work in Saskatchewan.

Every day, as an MLT you are required to:

  • Maintain concentration for long periods of time in a rapidly changing environment.
  • Communicate and interact professionally with a variety of people including
    • Patients and their families; 
    • Other MLTs and MLT students;
    • Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs); 
    • Combined Laboratory and X-ray Technologists (CLXTs); 
    • Phlebotomists; 
    • Doctors;
    • Nurses; and 
    • Pharmacists.

Interests
Interests describe what people enjoy doing often in the course of a day. Individuals in this program often enjoy:
Working in the health care field due to genuine concern for others

  • Examining and investigating difficult questions
  • Learning about scientific skills and information
  • Working with details and numbers
  • Organizing and tracking information such as files or materials
  • Following orderly routines and schedules
  • Meeting clear standards for performance in concrete terms
  • Working in a fast-paced and changing environment
  • Working independently on tasks but contributing to a large team

Values
Values describe what the potential students have a high regard for, what gives meaning to their work and their lives, and what things they will work hard for:

  • Taking a realistic, concrete approach to problems and dealing with things.
  • Seeing a finished product or visible results from what I do.
  • Developing excellence and a high level of competence in a scientific or math based field.
  • Being able to work and think independently within set procedures.
  • Accuracy plus organization in work, and managing large volumes of information.
  • A strong work ethic and commitment to professional development

Aptitudes/strengths
Aptitudes or strengths are natural abilities, talents and general suitability for learning in a particular field. An example is a musical aptitude/talent where people have a natural ability; therefore, it is easier for them to develop skills in this area. Another example is mechanical ability. People with this natural talent are able to learn mechanical skills more easily than others who lack the suitability.

  • Mechanical ability - understanding and using the principles involved in building and repairing things
  • Physical ability - talent for physical movement and coordination. Fine motor skills for small movements
  • Scientific ability - understanding scientific principles, investigating and problem solving using the scientific method
  • Mathematical ability - understanding the theory and processes of mathematics
  • Organizing ability - talent for collecting and organizing information and keeping track of large amounts of data
  • Verbal communication ability - speaking or writing so others can learn from you
  • Ability to pay careful attention to detail and follow instructions closely

Entrance skills
A skill is learned and developed. It is the learned capacity to do something that has been practiced and worked on until it can be done easily. It is expected that individuals entering the program will have developed a reasonable level of skill in the following areas in order to successfully complete the program:

  • Manual skills that involve eye/hand coordination and manipulating things with my hands or fingers
  • Investigating answers to scientific questions
  • Understanding how machines and equipment work
  • Working with mathematical ideas and knowledge of basic mathematics processes
  • Analyzing information to help solve problems
  • Researching information
  • Getting along well with others, individually and in teams
  • Setting up and keeping accurate records
  • Self-motivated and independent
  • General skills include analytical and critical thinking skills, time management skills, prioritizing skills, flexibility and adaptability
  • Ability to follow verbal or written instructions

The purpose of this section is to give you an understanding of this career field and to help you make more informed career decisions.

There are 9 skill categories with examples of how workers use them on the job. The categories are: reading, using documents, writing, math, oral communication, thinking skills, working with others, computer use and continuous learning. This section is based on the more detailed Essential Skills developed by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada.

  • Read emails, interoffice memos, newsletters, safety manuals, policies and procedures manuals, medical journals and scientific journals.
  • Read requisitions from doctors on which tests to be performed.
  • Read forms to obtain information on tests.

Using documents refers to tasks that involve a variety of information displays in which words, numbers, icons and other visual characteristics appear. It may involve reading, writing and/or creating. 

  • Read work schedules and complete time sheets.
  • Complete patient requisition forms.
  • Complete specimen tracking logs
  • Pull information out of graphs and charts.
  • Document work accurately where required on forms.
  • Must be legible.
  • Fill in time sheets.
  • Write short explanatory letters, interoffice memos and email messages about work progress and concerns.
  • Record information when collecting blood and other specimens.
  • Write articles, papers and/or exams for continuing education requirements in the field.
  • Record procedure information.
  • Write reports for analytical use.
  • Accuracy in transcription.

 

  • Conduct complex mathematical calculations - whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percents, rates, ratios and proportions when calculating solution dilutions, reagent preparation and dilution, calculating molarity of chemical compounds and any math that is involved with chemistry, physics and molecular biology.
  • Some of the measurement instruments used include:
    • Clocks (analog and digital);
    • pH meters;
    • scales;
    • thermometers;
    • centrifuge;
    • tachometer;
    • auto-analyzers;
    • graduated cylinders; and
  • Ability to use a scientific calculator.
  • Communicate with patients to get information, give information and/or reassure them.
  • Communicate with other health care workers (such as coworkers, supervisors, nurses and doctors).
  • May give presentations to coworkers, professional associations, seminars/workshops and students.
  • Communication may be difficult when there is noise from some lab equipment, when the patient’s first language is not English, with some physical and/or mentally disabled patients, with fearful patients and with young children who cannot talk.

Problem solving (1 of 5 thinking skills)

  • Deal with lab equipment and machinery breakdowns.
  • Investigate problems with turnaround time.
  • Deal with missing specimens.
  • May develop solutions when facing deadlines that cannot be met.
  • Deal with personality conflicts in ever changing and high stress work environments.
  • Deal with hierarchy of roles and influence (for example, technologists versus doctor).

Decision making (2 of 5 thinking skills)

  • This refers to making a choice among options. Decision making occurs during problem solving but not all decision making is part of problem solving. Therefore, it is presented as a separate thinking skill. For example, buyers for retail outlets regularly make decisions about which suppliers to buy from and they select among the options for particular types of merchandise. This is not problem solving.
  • Decide whether specimen is acceptable.
  • Select the appropriate equipment for certain procedures.
  • Decide on what order to collect specimens.
  • Decide when to ask for help with completing certain procedures.
  • Decide when to refuse service.
  • Decide when to retest.
  • Decide how to manage and prioritize workload.

Job task planning and organizing (3 of 5 thinking skills)

  • Although duties are usually assigned and scheduled by the supervisor, the technologist will usually organize his/her own daily schedule.
  • Work is often organized within priorities and deadlines.
  • Emergencies may often disrupt a work schedule.
  • Work is coordinated with other coworkers for certain tests.

Significant use of memory (4 of 5 thinking skills)

  • Where they were in a procedure when they were interrupted.
  • What procedures are used for which tasks.
  • The name of tests and where tests should be forwarded.
  • Past interactions with patients when working with patients.
  • The location of supplies and equipment.
  • Preferences and protocols of the doctors who order the tests.

Finding Information (5 of 5 Thinking Skills)

  • Use reference and procedure manuals, and scientific and medical journals - print and online.
  • Use institutional and computer databases.
  • Talk to other health care workers (such as coworkers, supervisors, nurses and doctors).

May work alone or as a member of the patient's health care team

  •  Basic knowledge and operation of computerized lab.
  • Use institutional database to access patient information.
  • Ability to use specialized computer software (for example, Lab Information System (LIS) - to enter and access patient information).
Learning is through on the job training, from coworkers, employer sponsored training and by attending conferences.

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September

View latest program status info

Length:

92 weeks


Year 1 - 35 weeks; Year 2 - 38 weeks; Year 3 - 19 weeks

Locations

  • Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with a minimum grade of 70% in English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30, Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*, Physical Science 20*, Chemistry 30 and Biology 30
  • English Language Requirement (see Program-Specific ELP Requirements section)

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics and physics requirements also accepted:

  • Minimum of 70% in Math B30
  • Minimum of 70% in Physics 20

Note

  • Physics 30 will not be substituted for Physical Science 20 or Physics 20.
  • All applicants are required to submit an Essay of Traits and Awareness Questionnaire by March 1. Applicants moving to Phase 2 of the selection process are required to submit the Situational Assessment. The cost of the Situational Assessment is your responsibility.
  • Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search upon admission into the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search. The cost of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search is your responsibility.
  • Accepted applicants are required to provide current immunization records and meet Saskatchewan Polytechnic immunization requirements prior to entry into clinical practicum.
  • Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of CPR Health Care Provider (HCP), CPR Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR Level 'C' AED or equivalent certification upon admission into the program. CPR certification is valid for two (2) years from the date of completion regardless of the length of time indicated by the provider of the card or certificate. Recertification may be required during your studies. The cost of CPR certification is your responsibility.
  • Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of current N95 and canister respirator mask testing upon admission into the program. N95 and canister respirator mask testing is valid for two (2) years from the date of completion. Retesting may be required during your studies. The cost of N95 and canister respirator mask testing is your responsibility.
  • Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of 2015 WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) certification upon admission into the program. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current. The cost of WHMIS certification is your responsibility. Register for WHMIS.
  • Effective for Fall 2021: Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of Transferring Lifting Repositioning (TLR®) Object Moving certification or Safe Moving and Repositioning Techniques (SMART®) certification upon admission to the program. TLR® or SMART® certification is valid for three (3) years from the date of completion. Recertification may be required during your studies. The cost of TLR® or SMART® certification is your responsibility. Register for TLR.

 

Admission Method

High Demand

High-demand programs consistently have more applicants than spaces available at each Saskatchewan Polytechnic location at which they are offered. High-demand programs have admission requirements plus additional selection criteria. The application period for high-demand programs is October 1 to February 15, each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), March 1.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Selection Criteria

For required information on preparing your application, refer to the Selection Process Guide for Applicants.

Phase 1: Admission averages will be used to determine the applicants who progress into Phase 2 (based on highest admission averages). Admission averages will not be used in the Phase 2 process.Phase 1 requires applicants to submit all of the following:

Transcripts

  • High School Graduates: The admission average is calculated from the final marks in high school courses required for admission to the program. The high school average will be compared to any grade point average(s) (UGPA) presented for a minimum of 30 passed post-secondary credits from a recognized post-secondary institution - and the highest average considered for admission. Such applicants must be in good standing with the institution. If transcripts from more than one post-secondary institution are submitted, the highest UGPA will be considered against the high school average. Applicants are then ranked in the order of the highest averages.
  • Current High School Students: The admission average is calculated from final marks provided by March 1. Conditional admission may be granted on this basis. Current high school students must order transcripts to be sent directly to Saskatchewan Polytechnic at the end of Semester 1 and the end of Semester 2 of the grade 12 year. The final grade 12 mark will be used where the course is completed. The final grade 11 mark will be used only in the absence of the grade 12 mark in the same subject.
  • Post-Secondary Education: If applicable
  • Essay of Traits - See the Essay of Traits - Applicant's Guidelines for Composition in the Selection Process Guide for Applicants.
  • Awareness Questionnaire
  • Applicants who move to Phase 2 of the selection process are required to submit a Situational Assessment.
  • Phase 2: Additional selection criteria is applied to applicants with the highest averages from Phase 1. Top ranked Phase 2 applicants will be offered a program seat
    • Relevant post-secondary education = 10%
    • Essay of Traits = 40%
    • Situational Assessment = 50%

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

 

2020/21 Academic Year

Year 1 - $10,295
Year 2 - $7,945
Year 3 - $4,170

Additional programs costs that students are responsible for include:

  • CPR C/AED (Health Care Provider) – recognized by the program for two years from date of certification. If expires during programming student must recertify.
    • approx. $75 to $125
  • Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
    • approx. $75
  • Immunizations
    • no cost if immunizations are completed with a Saskatchewan Polytechnic Health Nurse.
    • completed outside of Saskatchewan Polytechnic fees range from $90 to $120 for Hepatitis B series
  • Mask FIT Testing – both required
    • N95 - approx. $75 to $125
    • Canister - approx. $75 to $125
    • Mask Fit testing is recommended to be updated annually, however, it is mandatory to be updated every two years. If expiry date occurs during programming student must re-submit proof of testing to the program. Cost of re-testing is the student's responsibility.
  • WHMIS 2015 - Globally Harmonized System (GHS) certification
    • Approx. $35
  • Students will be required to purchase an iPad or tablet size device for use within the program. Associated expenses are the students' responsibility.

Courses

Expand All +

Year 1

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
APHY 191
Anatomy and Physiology 1
3
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You will explore the structure and function of organs and systems in the normal human body. Your studies will focus on the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and endocrine systems.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 42.0
Equivalent Course(s): APHY 191CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning
APHY 282
Anatomy and Physiology 2
3
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Building on the knowledge gained in APHY 191 (Anatomy and Physiology 1), you will continue your study of the structure and function of the normal human body. Your studies will focus on the cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 38.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 191
Equivalent Course(s): APHY 282CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning
CHEM 176
Clinical Chemistry 1
5
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Your studies will focus on the principles and application of analytical techniques. These include basic light measuring systems, electrochemistry and laboratory automation. You will develop the skills needed to produce valid analytical results to assess blood gases, electrolytes, carbohydrates and renal function.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 70.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 180, APHY 282(concurrent), PROC 180(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
CHEM 184
Urinalysis
2
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You will perform and assess chemical and microscopic urinalysis.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 23.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 180, APHY 282(concurrent), PROC 180(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): CHEM 184CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
ETHC 185
Professional Practices 1
3
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You will receive an introduction to health care and health care delivery systems. You will study the legal and ethical issues faced by health care professionals. You will discuss interpersonal and employability skills required in health care professions with an emphasis on teamwork, communication and stress management. You will learn methods to deal with grief and loss, in addition to skills and techniques for critical thinking and conflict management.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 42.0
Equivalent Course(s): ETHC 185CE, HUMR 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
ETHC 280
Professional Practices 2
2
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You will study health care organizational behaviour and the skills required for leadership/management roles. You will discuss co-operative work relationships, conflict resolution, budgeting, strategic planning, the collective bargaining process and workload measurements. You will develop workplace documents and demonstrate job search techniques.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
HEMA 179
Hematology
5
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You will focus on laboratory procedures performed routinely in the clinical laboratory. These include the theory and use of hematology analyzers and the assessment of peripheral blood films.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 74.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 180, PROC 180(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group
HEMA 188
Hemopathology - Erythrocytes
2
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You will explore the pathophysiology of various anemias as related to the laboratory involvement in diagnosis and treatment. You will also learn the special laboratory tests used for differential diagnosis. You will apply this theory to assess laboratory tests for analytical discrepancies and result validity.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 35.0
Prerequisites(s): HEMA 179
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
HEMA 192
Introductory Hemostasis
2
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You will study secondary hemostasis and fibrinolysis. You will learn to perform, assess and correlate common screening tests used to detect and monitor treatment of hemostasis disorders.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 35.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 180, PROC 180(concurrent), IMMU 183(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
HSTC 184
Microanatomy
2
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You will recognize functional cells and tissue arrangements. You will also study the micro-anatomical structure of the body's major organs.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 35.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 180, APHY 282(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
HSTC 185
Histotechnology 1
3
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You will be introduced to the principles and practices of preparing clinical specimens for histological examination (including fixation, decalcification processing, embedding and microtomy).
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): (PROC 180 or PROC 182), APHY 282(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
HSTC 187
Histotechnology 2
3
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You will discuss the principles and practices used in a laboratory and prepare clinical histology specimens for demonstrating cellular and non-cellular elements.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): HSTC 184, HSTC 185
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
IMMU 183
Immunology
2
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You will study the body's innate and acquired defense mechanisms. Your studies will focus on the involvement of the immune system in various disease states and clinical conditions. The course also provides an introduction to the principles of antigen-antibody reactions and their application in many laboratory tests.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 180
Equivalent Course(s): IMMU 183CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
INFC 180
Infection Control and Safety
2
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You will study the transmission of microorganisms, blood-borne pathogens (i.e. hepatitis virus and HIV), routine practices, isolation procedures, immunization for medical workers, sterilization and disinfection, biohazard waste, safety and WHMIS.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 25.0
Equivalent Course(s): INFC 180CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning
MICR 187
Microbiology 1
6
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You will learn how to perform microbiology and antimicrobial susceptibility techniques. You will apply your skills to clinical specimens from the urinary, gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. Interpreting clinically significant microorganisms will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 6
Course Hours: 85.0
Prerequisites(s): MTER 180, PROC 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
MICR 188
Microbiology 2
3
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You will learn how to interpret clinically significant microorganisms from the eye/ear, genital tract, cardiovascular and central nervous systems, skin/wound/soft tissue and deep wound sites.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 50.0
Prerequisites(s): MICR 187
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
MTER 180
Medical Terminology
1
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You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes and combining forms from which medical terms are derived. You will also learn to use medical abbreviations.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 10.0
Equivalent Course(s): MED 161, MTER 180CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning
PROC 180
General Laboratory Practice
2
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You will receive the theory and practice required to perform basic procedures in a laboratory. The course content includes laboratory glassware, use of balances, centrifuges, thermal equipment, pH meters, microscopes and solution preparation with related calculations.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 37.0
Prerequisites(s): INFC 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
PROC 181
Specimen Collection and Handling
3
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You will learn how to collect, handle and transport various laboratory specimens to ensure the quality of laboratory results. The collection of blood specimens will be emphasized. You will practice capillary and venous collection on adults at various sites in the community.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): INFC 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
QC 194
Quality Management
2
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You will receive an overview of methods used to ensure the quality of laboratory results. Quality assurance and quality control techniques will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab
TRFS 180
Transfusion Science 1
3
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You will acquire the theory and practice needed to perform basic techniques to detect antigen-antibody reactions. You will also learn how to perform ABO forward and reverse grouping, Rh grouping and the antiglobulin test (direct and indirect).
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 52.0
Prerequisites(s): PROC 180, IMMU 183(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 1

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
BIOL 181
Molecular Biology
1
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You will study the principles of molecular biology techniques and explain the practical applications of this technology as it would apply in a diagnostic laboratory. The course content includes DNA/RNA isolation, hybridization, Polymerase Chain Reaction and restriction enzyme analysis.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 22.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
CHEM 279
Clinical Chemistry 2
3
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You will learn advanced light measuring techniques, as well as enzymology and immunoassay theory. You will develop the skills needed to produce and assess valid results.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 50.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 176, IMMU 183(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
CHEM 288
Clinical Chemistry 3
2
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You will develop skills to produce and assess valid results in advanced areas of the medical laboratory.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 176, IMMU 183(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
HEMA 189
Hemopathology - Leukocytes
2
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You will explore the pathophysiology of blood diseases involving primarily leukocytes as related to the laboratory involvement with diagnosis and treatment. You will also learn the special laboratory tests used for differential diagnosis. You will apply this theory to assess laboratory tests for analytical discrepancies and result validity.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 32.0
Prerequisites(s): HEMA 179
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
HEMA 283
Advanced Hemostasis
2
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You will study disorders associated with primary hemostasis, secondary hemostasis, fibrinolysis and thrombophilia. You will learn to perform, assess and correlate specialized hemostasis tests used to differentiate and monitor these disorders.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 28.0
Prerequisites(s): HEMA 192
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
MICR 189
Microbiology 3
2
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You will learn how to interpret and recognize unusual/uncommon clinically significant microorganisms (including a limited number of fungi and parasites).
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MICR 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
PATH 181
Laboratory Result Correlation
3
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You will focus on the role of the laboratory in diagnosis and disease management. The course content includes the analyses used and brief descriptions of common disorders involving the various body systems. You will use this information to help you define the role of the laboratory in disease diagnosis and management. This information will assist you to detect possible discrepancies in laboratory test results.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): HEMA 179, HEMA 192, CHEM 279(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
QC 193
Best Practices in Point of Care Testing
1
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You will study roles and responsibilities of the health care team in point of care testing (POCT). You will learn steps necessary to implement POCT, principles of quality management and correlation of POCT results.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): QC 193CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
TRFS 181
Transfusion Science 2
4
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You will acquire the theory and practice needed to detect and identify antigens and antibodies and other blood group systems. You will learn how to help diagnose, treat and prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Diagnosing and treating immune hemolytic anemias will also be covered.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 55.0
Prerequisites(s): TRFS 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
TRFS 182
Transfusion Science 3
2
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You will acquire the theory and practice needed to provide and issue compatible products for transfusions and investigating adverse effects of transfusions.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): TRFS 181
Equivalent Course(s): TRFS 182CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 2 and Year 3

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
CLIN 284
Clinical Hematology
19
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successful completion, you will be able to perform analytical testing in a routine clinical hematology laboratory.
Credit Units: 19
Course Hours: 288.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, BIOL 181, CHEM 184, CHEM 288, CLIN 291, ETHC 185, ETHC 280, HEMA 283, HEMA 188, HEMA 189, HSTC 187, MICR 189, PATH 181, QC 193, QC 194, TRFS 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
CLIN 285
Clinical Transfusion Science
12
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing this experience, you will be able to perform analytical testing in a routine clinical transfusion science laboratory.
Credit Units: 12
Course Hours: 180.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, BIOL 181, CHEM 184, CHEM 288, CLIN 291, ETHC 185, ETHC 280, HEMA 283, HEMA 188, HEMA 189, HSTC 187, MICR 189, PATH 181, QC 193, QC 194, TRFS 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
CLIN 286
Clinical Microbiology
22
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing this experience, you will be able to apply basic and specific skills for the identification and interpretation of common clinical microorganisms for all body sites.
Credit Units: 22
Course Hours: 324.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, BIOL 181, CHEM 184, CHEM 288, CLIN 291, ETHC 185, ETHC 280, HEMA 283, HEMA 188, HEMA 189, HSTC 187, MICR 189, PATH 181, QC 193, QC 194, TRFS 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
CLIN 287
Clinical Histotechnology
10
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing this experience, you will be able to perform processing, cutting and staining procedures in a routine clinical histotechnology laboratory.
Credit Units: 10
Course Hours: 144.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, BIOL 181, CHEM 184, CHEM 288, CLIN 291, ETHC 185, ETHC 280, HEMA 283, HEMA 188, HEMA 189, HSTC 187, MICR 189, PATH 181, QC 193, QC 194, TRFS 182 or SIMU 282
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
CLIN 291
Specimen Procurement and Management 1
2
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing this experience, you will be able to assist with specimen procurement, receive/distribute specimens and prepare specimens for analysis in a routine clinical laboratory.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 36.0
Prerequisites(s): PROC 181
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Prior Learning
CLIN 292
Clinical Molecular Biology
2
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing this experience, you will be able to perform molecular diagnostic techniques to identify nucleic acid sequences.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 36.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, BIOL 181, CHEM 184, CHEM 288, CLIN 291, ETHC 185, ETHC 280, HEMA 283, HEMA 188, HEMA 189, HSTC 187, MICR 189, PATH 181, QC 193, QC 194, TRFS 182 or SIMU 282
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
CLIN 293
Specimen Procurement and Management 2
7
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing this experience, you will be able to perform specimen procurement, receive/distribute specimens and prepare specimens for analysis in a routine clinical laboratory.
Credit Units: 7
Course Hours: 108.0
Prerequisites(s): CLIN 291
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Prior Learning
CLIN 294
Clinical Chemistry 4
19
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You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successful completion, you will be able to perform analytical testing in a routine clinical chemistry laboratory.
Credit Units: 19
Course Hours: 288.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 282, BIOL 181, CHEM 184, CHEM 288, CLIN 291, ETHC 185, ETHC 280, HEMA 283, HEMA 188, HEMA 189, HSTC 187, MICR 189, PATH 181, QC 193, QC 194, TRFS 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum
RSCH 280
Applied Investigation
1
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You will receive an introduction to research concepts, methodologies and issues in health. You will demonstrate the practical application of research techniques.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 22.0
Prerequisites(s): (APHY 282, BIOL 181, CHEM 184, CHEM 288, ETHC 185, ETHC 280, HEMA 283, HEMA 188, HEMA 189, HSTC 187, MICR 189, PATH 181, QC 193, QC 194, TRFS 182) or SIMU 281
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 289, RSCH 280CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.  See links below to more information about PLAR and detailed PLAR candidate guides for courses in this program.


Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.

Graduates of this program may be eligible for block transfer of 60 credit units into the Bachelor of Science Post Diploma program or 30 credit units toward BSc (PD) with Majors in Applied Mathematics, Computing Information Systems and/or Human Science.
Graduates of this program is granted a maximum of 72 transfer credits into the Bachelor of Health Science.
Graduates of this program may be eligible for block transfer into third year of Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science.

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Accreditation

Accreditation Canada/EQual Canada has accorded the MLT program full accredited status for a 6 year term.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) program is an accredited program. Program content is based on the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science competency profile, with topics added as appropriate for addressing local needs.

Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) General Medical Laboratory Technology certification exam. This entitles you to work anywhere in Canada and to register as a licensed Medical Laboratory Technologist with the Saskatchewan Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists (SSMLT).

The cost of CSMLS General Medical Laboratory Technology national certification examination is the responsibility of the student. For more information, see www.csmls.org/About-Us/What-We-Do/Certification.aspx.

Additional Information

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