St. Ambrose University (SAU) and Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences (TCON) announce a groundbreaking dual degree program designed to provide qualified students with a specific pathway to meet degree requirements established by SAU for a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) at Trinity College.
This collaborative effort will enable students to broaden their educational horizons, gain valuable clinical experience, and achieve national certification as clinical laboratory scientists. Under this agreement, students enrolled in the dual degree program completing their third year at SAU can apply to the MLS program at TCON. Students will complete the required 40 hours of clinical practicum experience at Trinity, qualifying them to earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in MLS at TCON and a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at SAU.
Most importantly, the articulation agreement creates an opportunity for students to qualify for the National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) certification exam upon completion of program requirements. This certification is a significant achievement that opens the doors to a variety of employment opportunities in the medical laboratory science field.
“This collaboration comes at a critical time, as there is currently a shortage of up to 25,000 certified medical laboratory scientists both locally and nationwide,” said Brenda Peters, PhD, professor of Biology at St. Ambrose. “By providing students with exceptional training and educational opportunities, this agreement aims to address the shortage and meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field.”
Trinity College students can complete their MLS program in a hybrid format, combining online and in-person courses. The curriculum incorporates hands-on clinical experiences, allowing students to apply the knowledge they have acquired in real-world laboratory settings.
“By joining forces, SAU and Trinity College are empowering students to excel in the field of medical laboratory science, ensuring a brighter future for aspiring laboratory professionals,” said Stephanie Tieso, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, Medical Lab Sciences instructor and program director and program coordinator of Trinity College Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.
About Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences
With a presence in the Quad Cities for more than 125 years, Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences has become the community leader in developing experienced and knowledgeable health professionals. Our academic programs are well-respected and focus on the development of the critical thinking and practical skills necessary for entry into today's fast-changing health care environment. Through our affiliation with UnityPoint Health – Trinity, our students are able to work with some of the most technologically advanced equipment in the medical field, in both simulated and clinical settings. Our dedicated faculty and staff work closely with other area healthcare professionals, bringing a collaborative and holistic approach to the curriculum. Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences is currently accepting applications for the following degree programs: Associate of Applied Science in Radiography, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Medical Laboratory Science, and Master of Science in Nursing.
