Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences- Categorical

The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences provides students with advanced theoretical and technical education and prepares them to assume roles as laboratory supervisors, educators and researchers. VCU will provide students with a superior, yet flexible, course of advanced study in medical laboratory sciences. Student learning outcomes Categorical M.S. students will demonstrate knowledge and proficiency of laboratory tests. Students will demonstrate the ability to research and evaluate laboratory issues within medical laboratory sciences, formulate a research question, design a research protocol and complete a research project. Students will demonstrate appropriate professional conduct and leadership characteristics to include effective communication skills, ethical conduct and problem-solving abilities.

Special requirementsApplicants must possess the essential technical abilities and skills described below.In addition to the general admission requirements of the VCU Graduate School, the general entrance requirements for the Master of Science in Clinical Laboratory Sciences for the categorical concentration are:Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a major in biology or chemistry (Other majors may be approved with 12 credits of biology and 12 credits of chemistry completed.)Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for at least the last two years of undergraduate workThree letters of recommendation from recent instructors or professional references from the applicant’s intended field of study addressing the applicant’s academic and professional abilities and preparation for graduate studySatisfactory interviewEssential functions in clinical laboratory sciencesThe VCU Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences is responsible for providing education without regard to disability while assuring that academic and technical standards are met.Academic standards are met by successfully completing the curriculum for the M.S. in Clinical Laboratory Sciences degree.Technical standards represent the essential nonacademic requirements that a student must demonstrate to successfully participate in the M.S. in Clinical Laboratory Sciences degree program. The technical standards for each category identified below are consistent with the expectations of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. Applicants must possess the following essential technical abilities and skills for admission consideration:Manual dexterity: Ability to use hand(s) or prosthetic devices with coordinationFine motor: Ability to manipulate small objects with fingertips or adaptive devicesMobility: Ability to maneuver in the laboratory and around instruments and in patient-care settingsVision: Ability to distinguish red, yellow, green and blue colors; to distinguish clear from cloudy; and to distinguish objects through a microscopeHearing: Ability to hear with assistive devices (i.e., phone receivers, hearing aid, etc.)Speech: Ability to verbally communicate in EnglishWriting: Ability to communicate effectively in written form in EnglishReading: Ability to read, understand and follow directions printed in EnglishEmotional and physical stability: Ability to work accurately and safely under stress, adapt to changing environments and prioritize tasksPersonal attributes: Must demonstrate integrity, responsibility, tolerance and respect