University of New Brunswick

What you'll study

This programme combines core biomedical science with intensive hands-on laboratory training and supervised clinical practicum. Topics covered include clinical chemistry, haematology and coagulation, clinical microbiology, immunology and serology, transfusion medicine, and molecular diagnostics. Complementary subjects such as anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, medical microbiology, laboratory instrumentation, quality assurance and laboratory management are also included.

Teaching methods include lectures, small-group tutorials, practical laboratory sessions using current diagnostic equipment, case-based learning and workplace-based clinical placements in accredited diagnostic laboratories. The curriculum emphasises laboratory safety, professional practice, data interpretation and quality systems used in clinical laboratories.

Entry requirements

• Secondary school graduation or equivalent with required senior-level science courses, typically chemistry and biology; mathematics and English are usually required or strongly recommended.
• A competitive academic standing based on secondary or post-secondary transcripts; selection is competitive and based on academic performance in prerequisite courses.
• Applicants who hold prior post-secondary coursework in relevant sciences may be eligible for advanced standing, assessed on an individual basis.
• Successful applicants must be able to meet health and safety requirements for clinical placements, which commonly include immunisation proof, a clear criminal record check and the ability to perform essential laboratory tasks.
• Mature applicants and those with relevant laboratory experience are considered; some programmes may require an interview or additional documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles as medical laboratory technologists/medical laboratory scientists in hospital clinical laboratories, community diagnostic laboratories, public health and reference laboratories. Other employment settings include blood banks and transfusion services, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, forensic laboratories, and private clinical testing facilities.

With further study or experience, graduates can move into supervisory or managerial positions, quality assurance, laboratory information systems, research and development, or pursue graduate degrees in clinical laboratory science, biomedical science or related disciplines. The qualification also provides a pathway to professional certification or licensure where required by provincial regulatory or certifying bodies.

Why study at University of New Brunswick

• Hands-on training in modern teaching laboratories equipped with diagnostic instrumentation used in clinical practice.
• Strong links and clinical partnerships with regional hospitals and diagnostic laboratories that provide supervised practicum placements and workplace exposure.
• Faculty with clinical and research experience in medical laboratory science and related biomedical fields, offering mentorship and research opportunities.
• Small cohort sizes that promote close student–instructor interaction, practical skills development and professional preparation.
• Support services including academic advising, career services and assistance with placement preparation to help transition into the workforce or further study.