When we think about healthcare professionals, we often picture doctors in scrubs or nurses on the front lines. But behind nearly every diagnosis and treatment decision is a medical laboratory scientist — a highly trained professional generating data that helps save lives every day. In fact, laboratory results inform approximately 70% of clinical decision-making, making the work of medical laboratory scientists absolutely critical to patient care.
The demand for qualified laboratory professionals is growing rapidly, driven by several factors.
“According to the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS), the current clinical laboratory workforce is aging and retiring at a significant rate, while the need for laboratory services continues to increase in response to advances in medical technology and patient care,” said Ellen Olsen, MLS program coordinator at NIU.
In addition, new testing methods—such as molecular and genetic diagnostics—require specialized
knowledge and skill, making the role of the medical laboratory scientist more complex and essential than ever. Unfortunately, the number of graduates entering the field has not kept pace with these demands, leading to high vacancy rates and staffing challenges nationwide.
“We accepted our largest class during the 2024-2025 academic year,” Olsen said. “Our MLS program stands as a proud example of how we’re rising to meet the evolving demands of healthcare. We’re building the workforce that hospitals, clinics, and labs need now more than ever.”
Students spend the last two semesters of the program – which is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Sciences (NAACS) – at a clinical site that NIU helps them secure. For student Wendy Lozano, that internship experience at University of Chicago Medical Center (UCMC) turned into a full-time job offer at when she graduated in May 2025. 
“The internship was an incredibly valuable experience,” said Lozano. “It allowed me to connect what I learned in the classroom to the real-world clinical setting. I had a really positive experience during my time at UCMC, so when it came time to apply for jobs, it was an easy decision to apply there.”
Learn more about MLS at NIU.
