Medical Laboratory Technology

Program Overview

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 15 - 20 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. Clinical practicum hours can start as early as 7 a.m.

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). There are limited clinical placements in each location. 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.

International applicants are not currently considered for admission.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Medical Laboratory Technologist (I/II/III)	Medical Laboratory Technologists (3211)	$60,000 - $83,200
Medical Laboratory Technologist Supervisor	Medical Laboratory Technologists (3211)	$60,000 - $83,200

What's the Work Like?

As a student and in this profession, you may

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.

Personal qualities of workers in this field

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

Essential skills of workers in the field

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.

Reading text (1 of 9 essential skills)

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 (2 of 9 essential skills)

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.

Writing (3 of 9 essential skills)

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.

Math (4 of 9 essential skills)

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.

Oral Communication (5 of 9 Essential Skills)

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.

Thinking skills (6 of 9 essential skills)

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).

Working with others (7 of 9 essential skills)

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

Computer use (8 of 9 essential skills)

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).

Continuous learning (9 of 9 essential skills)

Learning is through on the job training, from coworkers, employer sponsored training and by attending conferences.

Further investigate this program choice as a career

Talk with a number of medical lab technologists in the field and conduct informational interviews.
Volunteer in a health care environment
Visit the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science website.
Ream more about National Occupation Classification 3211 Medical Laboratory Technologists and Pathologists' Assistants.
Ream more about National Occupation Classification) 3212 Medical Laboratory Technicians.
Check out the Government of Canada’s Career Handbook for 3212 Medical Laboratory Technicians.
Check out the Government of Canada’s Career Handbook for 3211.1 Medical Laboratory Technologists.
Check out the inner workings of a lab in a video created by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science.

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September

Length: 91 weeks

Year 1 - 35 weeks; Year 2 - 37 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

*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.
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.
Effective July 1, 2019: 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.

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

90 Arithmetic
70 Elementary Algebra
85 Reading
85 Sentence
5 WritePlacer

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

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

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 books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Year 1 - $8,400
Year 2 - $8,200
Year 3 - $3,800

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.

Courses

Expand All +

Year 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

APHY 191

Anatomy and Physiology 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

BIOL 181

Molecular Biology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, CHEM 279(concurrent), HEMA 192
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

QC 193

Best Practices in Point of Care Testing

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

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

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
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 2 and Year 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CLIN 284

Clinical Hematology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit

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

Athabasca 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.

University of Regina

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. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. 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.