Medical laboratory science professionals are diagnostic detectives providing physicians
with the data necessary to diagnose, treat, monitor and prevent illness in their patients.
They use sophisticated biomedical instrumentation, (microscopes, and chemical and
cell analyzers) to perform laboratory testing on blood and other body fluids. They
provide laboratory data that aids in the diagnosis of cancer, heart disease, diabetes,
and bacterial infections to name a few.
The Medical Laboratory Science program offers the following:
The program prepares students to become certified phlebotomists, medical laboratory
technicians and/or medical laboratory scientists. Students in the program build the
skills and experience to become leading clinical laboratory professionals. They train
to use a range of high-tech instrumentation and equipment. They also develop essential
skills in analysis and clinical decision-making, regulatory compliance, and quality
assurance.
The mission of the Medical Laboratory Science Department is to graduate competent
and ethical clinical laboratory professionals with the knowledge and the skills for
career entry. It is also the department's mission to prepare graduates for leadership
roles in the clinical laboratory and professional organizations and to instill an
understanding of the need for maintaining continuing competency in a rapidly changing
and dynamic profession.
Division of Population Health Sciences Associate Professor Dr. Britteny Howell recently published two new studies that investigates the relationship between aging and mental health. Her research seeks to explore gaps in existing literature about how the experience of aging is shape by factors like social context, culture, activities, beliefs, environment, and more.
In January 2026, students from the College of Health showcased their public health research at the Alaska Public Health Association Summit’s annual poster session. Their projects spanned topics ranging from food security to environmental contamination, contributing valuable insights that help shape the evolving conversation around Alaska’s public health landscape.
Dr. Corrie Whitmore, an associate professor in the Division of Population Health Sciences, and her team at UAA’s Center for Behavioral Health Research and Services are celebrating the recent publication of a new article. The paper, which was published in the Dec. 2025 issue of Nursing for Women’s Health, offers a framework and actionable strategies for nurses to improve communication and patient experience in discussions around substance use and contraception.
School of Social Work Assistant Professor Amana Mbise and ISER Research Assistant Professor Nathan West are exploring the relationships that Black barbershops play in men's health. Their community-based research prioritizes the lived experiences of the men they talk to, and is revealing how barbershops function not just as grooming spaces, but as social and cultural hubs.
Philippe Amstislavski, a scientist with a passion for sustainable innovation, is pioneering the use of mycelium insulation to help Alaska’s remote communities combat extreme cold and climate change.
Message from the Director
Medical laboratory professionals are the cornerstone of clinical diagnostics, providing
answers towards discovery and treatment of disease. The Medical Laboratory Science
and Technology programs at UAA provide a strong academic and laboratory-based education
aligned with industry standards in clinical microbiology, hematology, chemistry, and
molecular diagnostics. Graduates from our program have successful careers in hospital
based clinical laboratories, research laboratories such as the CDC, and post-graduate
education including medical school and physician assistant programs. Please contact
us if you have any questions regarding the exciting world of laboratory medicine.