Choosing the right university to study Medical Laboratory Science matters a lot.
This course trains students to work in labs handling tests that help doctors diagnose illnesses.
In Nigeria, many universities offer this program, but some stand out because of their quality, facilities, and teaching standards.
What is the best university for Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria?
Many experts and students look to the University of Lagos.
UNILAG has a strong department under its Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, which trains medical lab scientists with modern skills.
They offer solid teaching, research labs, and hospital postings.
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) also stands out, it divides its training clearly among Clinical Chemistry, Haematology, Microbiology, Histopathology, and Immunology.
Niger Delta University (NDU) is newer but works closely with teaching hospitals for real-world training.
Other good ones include ABU and Nnamdi Azikiwe University for their full programs and hands-on labs.
What are the admission requirements for Medical Laboratory Science?
Most universities ask for at least five credit passes in SSCE or WAEC exams. You need Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and English.
ABU lists these clearly, with at least a score of 200 in JAMB UTME for its 2024–2025 session.
Elizade University also follows this rule and admits direct-entry students with A‑level results in science subjects.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University requires Government-approved science subjects too, plus UTME or direct entry.
How long is the Medical Laboratory Science program?
The usual path takes five years for UTME students and four years for direct-entry students who already hold two A‑level passes or an HND in related subjects.
NDU sets the same five‑year plan with lab placements in hospitals starting in year three.
UNN follows a five‑year model with a final‑year specialization in two chosen areas.
ABU and other universities confirm this five‑year first‑degree structure before a one‑year MLSCN internship.
What subjects are taught in Medical Laboratory Science?
The coursework covers a mix of basic sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Maths) and lab‑based professional sciences.
At NDU, core areas include Medical Biochemistry, Microbiology, hematology, Blood Transfusion, Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, and Histopathology sciences.
UNN offers Clinical Chemistry, hematology, Medical Microbiology, Histopathology, Immunology, Pharmacology, and lab instrumentation.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University adds Histopathology & Cytology, lab management, and entrepreneurship.
Do students get practical training and hospital experience?
Yes. NDU students do mandatory postings in teaching hospitals from year three to five under supervision.
ABU has clinical lab exposure through its Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences with affiliated hospitals around Zaria.
UNN students spend time in labs, learning to use and even repair equipment.
Afe Babalola University also emphasizes practice in hospitals, food and water labs, and maybe starter businesses.
What happens after graduating?
Graduates get their first degree (BMLS or BSc). They then register with the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria as fresh members.
After a one‑year internship in accredited labs, they become licensed professionals.
After that, they go for NYSC. With the Council license and NYSC done, they can work in hospitals, diagnostic centers, industries, academia, or labs at home or abroad.
Which university has the best lab facilities?
ABU is large and well‑equipped. Its Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences includes well‑furnished labs in hematology, Microbiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Chemical Pathology, and more.
NDU has two teaching labs plus a molecular bioresearch lab.
UNN does not list labs on its site, but it teaches practicals across key disciplines and trains students to repair machines.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University also claims to meet NUC and MLSCN standards, with courses in instrumentation and tech support.