St. Ambrose University (SAU) and Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences (TCON) have inked a groundbreaking dual-degree program.
It is designed to provide qualified students with a pathway to meet SAU degree requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) at Trinity College, according to a joint news release.
The collaborative effort will enable students to broaden their educational horizons, gain valuable clinical experience and achieve national certification as clinical laboratory scientists, the institutions said.
Under the program, Ambrose students enrolled in the dual-degree program completing their third year can apply to the MLS program at TCON. Students who complete the required 40 hours of clinical practicum qualify to earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in MLS at TCON and a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at SAU.
Most importantly, the release said, the articulation agreement creates the opportunity for students to qualify for the National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) certification exam.
This certification opens the doors to a variety of employment opportunities in the medical laboratory science field.
“This collaboration comes at a critical time, as there is currently a shortage of up to 25,000 certified medical laboratory scientists both locally and nationwide,” Brenda Peters, professor of Biology at St. Ambrose, said in the release. “By providing students with exceptional training and educational opportunities, this agreement aims to address the shortage and meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field.”
Trinity College students can complete their MLS program in a hybrid format, combining online and in-person courses. The program also incorporates hands-on clinical experiences.
“By joining forces, SAU and Trinity College are empowering students to excel in the field of medical laboratory science, ensuring a brighter future for aspiring laboratory professionals,” added Stephanie Tieso, MLS instructor/program director and program coordinator of Trinity College Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.
To learn more about St. Ambrose University, visit sau.edu. To learn more about Trinity College of Nursing & Health Science, visit trinitycollegeqc.edu.
