Study laboratory science abroad

Laboratory science is a multi-disciplined and practical subject that focuses on the analysis of medical issues. As a laboratory science student you’ll learn hands-on skills that will help you diagnose and monitor diseases, and work out how to identify treatments.

Often referred to as medical laboratory science, or clinical laboratory science, it can cover a diverse range of subjects like immunology, biochemistry, neuroscience and molecular and cell biology. As a graduate, you'll find yourself at the forefront of new treatment discoveries, helping diagnose and treat diseases, and making a real difference to people’s lives.

Studying laboratory science abroad means you could gain access to the best programs and facilities the world has to offer. Laboratory science programs aren’t offered in many countries, so if this is the degree for you then studying abroad could be your best option.

Laboratory science programs are most commonly offered in the US, and can be studied at undergraduate as a BSc or BHS (Bachelor of Health Science) over four years. Most universities use the liberal arts model, which means you’ll study other subjects before concentrating on laboratory science modules in your last two years.

You can study for a master’s degree as an MSc if you have a bachelor’s in a related subject, and these can take one or two years depending on where you study. If you already have a master’s some universities offer PhD or MPhil research degrees in laboratory science, or related subjects. These usually take three to six years, depending on the pace of your study.

A lot of your learning on a laboratory science program will be practical in nature and take place in the lab. You’ll also attend lectures, group tutorials, seminars and do a large amount of independent study. Each module will have it’s own assessment methods, but you can expect to complete reports, essays, and take written exams.

Most programs will have a number of elective modules you can choose, so no two laboratory science courses will be the same. However, most will cover certain core subjects, including:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Laboratory techniques
• Cellular biology
• Microbiology
• Human diseases
• Immunobiology
• Neuroscience, Endocrinology and Reproduction
• Haematology

A degree in laboratory science will give you a number of great career options in the healthcare, pharmaceutical or scientific industries. Some roles that a popular among graduates include:

• Laboratory technician
• Laboratory scientist
• Medical scientist
• Clinical scientist
• Medical technologist
• Toxicologist
• Forensic scientist

If you don’t know exactly what career path you want to take, speak to your university’s career services. They should be able to help you work out what role might be right for you, and help you find internship opportunities.