Medical Laboratory Technology

Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) are essential members of the healthcare team, performing complex laboratory tests that support diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. Assiniboine College’s Medical Laboratory Technology program prepares students with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies needed to work in hospital, community, research, provincial, federal, and private laboratories across Manitoba and beyond. 

This program combines classroom theory, hands-on laboratory training, simulation, and a 21-week clinical practicum in healthcare facilities throughout the province. Students gain expertise in specimen collection and handling, hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, histotechnology, and transfusion science, while developing professional communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills. Training emphasizes safety, quality assurance, and ethical, culturally responsive practice. 

A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is strongly recommended given the potential need to travel for clinical placement to rural and remote locations within Manitoba.  

See also our Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology program.
 

Program Learning Outcomes  

Graduates will be able to:

1. Collect blood and process specimens (blood, body fluids, and tissues) using appropriate collection techniques, labelling standards, and handling protocols to ensure specimen integrity and patient safety.
2. Apply foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and medical terminology to interpret test requirements and support patient-centered laboratory services.
3. Prepare, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment (e.g., analyzers, centrifuges, microscopes) following manufacturer instructions, institutional protocols, and safety standards.
4. Perform pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical procedures across the core laboratory disciplines (clinical chemistry, hematology, histotechnology, microbiology, and transfusion science) to generate accurate and reliable diagnostic results.
5. Integrate laboratory information systems (LIS) and informatics tools to enter, verify, retrieve, and manage patient and laboratory data while maintaining accuracy, confidentiality, and data security.
6. Apply quality assurance and quality control principles in accordance with regulatory, accreditation, and institutional requirements to support continuous improvement and reliability of laboratory services.
7. Demonstrate professional communication and collaboration skills to effectively interact with patients, colleagues, and interprofessional healthcare teams in clinical and educational settings.
8. Adhere to laboratory safety protocols, infection prevention and control measures, and workplace health and safety legislation to protect patients, colleagues, and self from harm.
9. Incorporate ethical, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed care principles when interacting with patients and colleagues.
10. Employ critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-informed decision-making to recognize, troubleshoot, and resolve laboratory issues in support of diagnostic workflows and patient care.
11. Demonstrate adaptability and lifelong learning by integrating new technologies, scientific advances, and professional development opportunities into laboratory practice.

Success Factors  

You might be a good fit for this program if you:  

• Enjoy helping people and contributing to patient care  
• Are comfortable working with blood and other bodily specimens  
• Have strong attention to detail and value accuracy in your work  
• Can follow strict safety protocols and procedures  
• Are interested in medical science, anatomy, or diagnostic testing  
• Communicate effectively and professionally in team environments  
• Value ethical practices that maintain patient confidentiality and public safety  
• Are calm under pressure and able to manage tasks in a busy clinical setting  
• Are comfortable using computers, laboratory software, and automated equipment  
• Are interested in a fast-paced, hands-on program  

The program and industry environment often requires individuals to:  

• Attend class in-person for full-time hours (28-36 hours depending on term)
• Work in clinical or laboratory settings that may include exposure to infectious materials such as blood, body fluids, and tissues
• Demonstrate strong technical abilities including fine motor control, good manual dexterity, visual acuity, and accurate colour discrimination
• Stand or sit for extended periods of time and perform repetitive tasks  
• Collect specimens directly from patients, requiring emotional maturity and professionalism  
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and face shields  
• Follow precise protocols and perform tasks under time pressure  
• Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to professional codes of conduct  
• Adapt to new technologies and keep pace with evolving laboratory practices  
• Work within a 24-hour shift cycle which may include evening, nights, weekends, and holidays depending on employer and discipline.