Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) is a very important part of healthcare that many people do not fully understand.
When you go to the hospital and the doctor asks for a blood test, urine test, or any lab test, it is the medical laboratory scientists who carry out these tests behind the scenes.
Their work helps doctors find out what is wrong with a patient and what treatment will work best.
In this article, we will look at what Medical Laboratory Science really means, what students learn in this field, and what job opportunities are available after graduation.
What does a medical laboratory scientist do?
A medical laboratory scientist is a healthcare worker who performs tests on blood, body fluids, and tissues to help doctors make decisions.
They do not treat patients directly, but their results help doctors know the exact illness a patient has.
They work with machines and chemicals in laboratories.
For example, if someone has malaria, the lab scientist looks for malaria parasites in the person’s blood.
If someone has a kidney problem, they test the urine or blood to check the condition of the kidney.
These scientists also check for infections, cancer cells, blood group types, and many other health conditions.
They must be very careful and accurate in their work because a small mistake can lead to the wrong treatment.
Is medical laboratory science the same as medical laboratory technology?
These two terms are similar, but they are not the same.
In Nigeria, “Medical Laboratory Science” is a degree-level course (usually BMLS), while “Medical Laboratory Technology” can refer to diploma or technician-level training.
Medical laboratory scientists (with BMLS) have more responsibilities, deeper training, and a wider range of job options.
They can supervise labs, conduct advanced tests, and even do research.
Medical lab technicians, on the other hand, mostly assist scientists and handle basic lab duties.
So while both work in the lab, the scientist has higher qualifications and is allowed to do more complex tasks.
What subjects do I need to study medical laboratory science in Nigeria?
To study Medical Laboratory Science in any Nigerian university, you need five O’level credits, including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
These subjects must be passed in not more than two sittings (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB).
In UTME (JAMB), the required subjects are: English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Most universities also require you to pass their post-UTME screening before you can be admitted.
The cut-off mark usually ranges from 180 to 250 depending on the university.
How many years does it take to study medical laboratory science in Nigeria?
In Nigeria, the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) takes five years to complete in the university. After that, you will go for a one-year internship in a hospital laboratory. You must also do a one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
So in total, it will take about seven years from admission to graduation and full registration to practice.
What is the difference between medicine and medical laboratory science?
Medicine and Medical Laboratory Science are both in the healthcare field, but they are different. Doctors (in medicine) deal directly with patients.
They ask questions, examine the body, diagnose, and give treatment.
Medical laboratory scientists do not treat patients. They work in the lab to find out what disease is present by testing samples. Without the lab results, the doctor may not know the exact illness.
So, in simple terms: doctors see the patient, while scientists analyze the patient’s body samples.
Can a medical laboratory scientist become a doctor?
Yes, but not directly. A medical laboratory scientist cannot become a doctor just because of their degree.
If someone with a BMLS wants to become a doctor, they must apply to study medicine and surgery (MBBS) from the beginning.
However, some universities may allow the person to join from 200 level or 300 level through direct entry, depending on their grades and experience.
But in general, you must go through the full medical school process to become a doctor.
What jobs can I get after studying medical laboratory science?
After graduating and becoming licensed by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), you can work in:
- Hospitals (government or private)
- Diagnostic laboratories
- Research institutions
- Blood banks
- Public health centers
- Teaching and lecturing in universities
- Food and drug companies
- Forensic laboratories (for crime investigation)
Some people also go into private practice by setting up their own labs, as long as they are fully registered and meet the rules.
Is medical laboratory science a good course in Nigeria?
Yes, Medical Laboratory Science is a respected and useful course in Nigeria. It allows you to work in the healthcare system and contribute to saving lives.
The job is scientific, technical, and detailed, so it suits people who are careful and love science.
There is also demand for laboratory professionals, especially in big hospitals, teaching hospitals, and during disease outbreaks like COVID-19, Lassa fever, or cholera.
However, like many other courses, getting a good job may depend on where you study, your skill level, and your network.
Some graduates also travel abroad where medical lab scientists are well paid and in high demand.