Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Medical Technologist/Clinical Laboratory Scientist?
Medical Technologists, also known as Clinical Laboratory Scientists, are laboratory health professionals who provide vital information about the status and function of the body and its systems. The data is utilized in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
How desirable is this profession?
According to the 1999 Jobs Rated Almanac, the Medical Technologist/Clinical Laboratory Scientist was ranked the 16th best job out of 250 jobs surveyed. This was based on the following factors: salary, work environment, security, physical demands, and stress level.
Are there job opportunities in Medical Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science?
There is currently a manpower shortage in the clinical laboratory that has created a great demand for part-time and full-time professionals country-wide. Many positions offer sign-on bonuses between $1,000 and $5,000. Most of our graduates obtain local job offers before completing the Program.
What prerequisite courses do I need?
Biology (4 hrs), inorganic chemistry (8 hrs), organic chemistry (5 hrs), anatomy and physiology (3 - 8 hrs), and statistics (3hrs) are required prerequisite courses.
I have a BS degree in science. Do I qualify for admission?
Yes. As long as the prerequisite courses listed above are met, applicants are eligible for a second baccalaureate degree in Medical Technology (BSMT). A faculty advisor will evaluate your credentials.
I am transferring to ODU from a community college/another institution. What should I do?
Contact the College's Pre-health Advisor - she or one of her staff can assist you in getting prepared to apply to the MT Program:
Sandra Breeden, College Advisor
2112 Health Sciences Building
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia 23529-0288
Phone: (757) 683-5137
Email: sbreeden@odu.edu
What GPA do I need in order to be eligible to apply to the MT Program?
The minimum GPA is 2.0 overall and in prerequisite science courses. However, admission is competitive. Admitted students who are the most successful have a GPA that is 2.5 or higher.
When do I apply?
Prospective transfer and second degree students and students tracking from their freshman year (spring of their sophomore year), should apply by February 1.
If I miss the application deadline, am I allowed to begin taking MT Program courses?
Yes, prospective students may begin taking program courses prior to formal admission to the program. A faculty advisor will recommend selected courses based on completed prerequisites.
What is the difference between the traditional BSMT Program and the BSMT Weekend Program?
Program courses in the traditional BSMT Program are offered during the day. Weekend courses are offered on alternate Saturdays locally and at several distant sites in a televised format. Some courses are also web-based. The BSMT Weekend Program is only available to practicing laboratory professionals.
I am a Laboratory Technician. How does my previous coursework apply towards obtaining a BSMT?
Articulation into the BSMT Program is available to individuals who are graduates of a formal laboratory training program. Students with previous laboratory training may complete the degree by completing courses in the traditional BSMT Program or the BSMT Weekend Program. Advanced placement will be based on educational background and work experience.
How long does it take to complete the Program?
Students beginning the traditional BSMT Program as freshmen can complete the program in 4 years. Transfer students can complete the program in five semesters (including summer). Second-degree students can complete the program in four semesters (including summer).
BSMT Weekend Program students can complete the program in five semesters (including summer).
Total time for completion of both programs will vary depending on the semester in which program courses are begun and what prerequisites courses are needed.