Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory Sciences

• Background

 The Bachelor Programme in Biomedical Laboratory Science is a unique and exciting combination of health sciences and technology education.

Biomedical Laboratory Scientists are responsible for the technical work in the medical laboratories, analysis of biological samples, quality assurance of analytical methods and test results, maintenance of complex technological equipment and testing, development, standardization and adaptation of new methods.

Biomedical Laboratory Scientists are also responsible for procedures for sampling and sample processing, and for training and counseling of patients and other health professionals on how they performed. This means that Biomedical Laboratory Scientists are responsible for patient samples from the ordered to the final results are available. Biomedical Laboratory Scientists help in the diagnosis to give patients the correct treatment.

• Justification

The biomedical laboratory science (BLS) academic program (major) is designed to prepare students for careers in a variety of applied biomedical sciences.  These include careers in the medical laboratory, public health, research, industry, human medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, graduate school or other human health professional education.  The BLD courses are focused in curricular spirals within six disciplines: Clinical Chemistry, Molecular Diagnostics, Immunology and Immunohematology, Hematology and Hemostasis, Medical Microbiology and Professional Writing (with a research and laboratory medicine emphasis). The medical laboratory experience required for national certification as a medical laboratory scientist is not included in this program, though BLS program advisors help students plan their career pathways. Students desiring Medical Laboratory Science certification are recommended to complete the Biomedical laboratory science concentration and are responsible for securing accredited clinical experiences subsequent to completion of the degree.  The Biomedical Laboratory science Program will advise students in securing clinical practicum experiences.  The program will also provide advising and career support for students pursuing career pathways in public health, research, industry, human medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or graduate school.

• The targeted group includes holders of:

-Advanced Level Certificate of Education; Advanced Level Certificate of science

-Diplomas in Engineering and other related Science and Technology fields;

-Degrees  in the Physical Sciences.

• General Objectives

The program recognizes the increasing demand for skillful medical scientists, and it aims at preparing professional laboratory scientist to ultimately fulfill their role as competent essential members of the health care team. Satisfactory completion of this program qualifies graduates for professional opportunities in medical laboratories inside and outside hospitals, private companies including pharmaceutical and medical equipment companies, academic institutions, international organizations and others. Biomedical Laboratory Science is still expanding steadily with the development of new tests and techniques of value and importance both in Public Health and Clinical Medicine.

• Specific Objectives

The learning objectives are described in the following terms:

Knowledge

A biomedical laboratory scientist must have knowledge within;

Quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis and laboratory techniques

Advanced instruments for analysis and laboratory equipment

Control systems and quality assurance of own work

Limitations and sources of error in analytical methods

Analytical reliability and the statistical and medical probability

Application and test significance in relation to the body’s normal function and disease

Safety and ethical issues related to the application, analysis and storage of biological samples

Biomedical  laboratory scientist must possess the necessary expertise for the continuous updating of knowledge and foundation for studies at postgraduate level

Skills

A biomedical laboratory scientist must have the skills to:

Master techniques, apply methods, and operate laboratory equipment and analytical instruments used in medical laboratories

Attend pre-analytical conditions and treat biological material correctly

Evaluate laboratory methods, their limitations and sources of error

Perform blood-sampling

 academic expressions well enough to convey relevant subjects in written and oral manner

General competence

A biomedical laboratory scientist must possess competence and follow these guidelines;

Work systematically and precisely by established procedures, laws and regulations

Work with a strong knowledge-base and reflect upon professional practice

Follow ethical guidelines

Interact in an interdisciplinary environment and with other professions

Respect individual differences and cultural differences

General infection control procedures

Utilize basic tools used in innovation and entrepreneurship

Duration of the Programme: 4 years   and one Year for advanced Diploma student