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.
Dr. Jean Snyder’s career in family medicine has spanned decades, continents, and nearly every corner of patient care. Now, after years of serving communities across Alaska and beyond, she has been recognized as the Alaska Family Physician of the Year by the Alaska Academy of Family Physicians.
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.
Laura Aspelund is a second-year medical student in the Alaska WWAMI program. As a medical student mentor in the Alaska Native into Oncology (ANION) program, she helps guide Alaska Native high school and college students exploring careers in medicine.
The UAA College of Health proudly celebrated the recent renovation of Sally Monserud Hall with a ribbon-cutting ceremony showcasing the new high-tech labs and simulation center, expanded allied health programs, growth of the WWAMI program and critical partnerships addressing Alaska’s growing health care needs.
Amanda Beery, MD, is not only providing care for women of all ages; she’s also shaping the next generation of physicians. A full-time OB/GYN and managing partner at Alaska Women’s Health, she is equally proud to call herself an Alaska WWAMI alum and medical educator.
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.