CPUT BHSc: Medical Laboratory Science  Course and Fees

Qualified medical laboratory scientists are specialised health professionals who play an integral role in the healthcare of society by providing vital information about a patient’s state of health. Their input is necessary in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease. The analytical and diagnostic services provided by medical laboratory scientists require a strong scientific knowledge, as well as trained reasoning ability and empathy for humanity.

The four-year programme includes clinical practice in an accredited Training Laboratory for the last 18 months of the programme. In the fourth year of studies, the student needs to select an area of specialisation in which they will practice from one of the following disciplines: Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Pathology, Cytogenetics, Cytopathology, Haematology, Histopathology, Immunohaematology, Immunology, Microbiology, Virology, Forensic Science and Pharmacology. The offering of a specialisation will depend on the number of students and the needs of the profession. Students need to pass a National Board Examination in their area of specialisation before they graduate. The qualifying learner will be able to apply principles and techniques in the routine and specialized analysis of biological specimens and other substances in an area of specialization. They will be able to organize laboratory operations in clinical diagnostic laboratories and related fields, in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). They will be able to integrate laboratory tests and results with pathophysiological conditions and conduct research grounded in a deep knowledge of the subject area and based on sound scientific principles. Within the programme, management skills are developed with a view to applying good business management and encouraging entrepreneurial development. They will be able to implement training programmes within medical laboratories. The outcomes of the qualification are underpinned by compliance with statutory requirements including quality, ethics and safety.

In order to practice as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, the learner will have to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in the area of specialisation in which they obtain their qualification.

A qualification in Medical Laboratory Science leads to an interesting and challenging career for a dedicated, mature and professional person who wishes to pursue a career in the field of medical science. Qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists are employed in laboratories in blood transfusion services, private pathology practices, the National Health Laboratory Services, the Medical Research Council, forensic laboratories, veterinary practices and other disciplines such as pharmaceutical companies. Those wishing to pursue a career in research can be employed in research laboratories at academic institutions. Registered Medical Laboratory Scientists may also apply for a license to practice in a private capacity in their own laboratories.

• A letter of motivation with their application form as to why they wish to become Medical Laboratory Scientists.
• The applicant may be interviewed by the Department – this could be face-to-face or telephonically;