Program overview
Admission Requirements
Intakes

Last updated on 2026-07-22

Program overview

Program Overview

Start your healthcare career quickly with Cambrian College's Medical Laboratory Assistant certificate. This program equips you with essential lab skills and clinical placement experience, preparing you for in-demand roles in the healthcare sector. You will learn to support medical professionals and provide assurance to patients, mastering vital skills such as blood sample collection, phlebotomy techniques, and the operation of lab equipment. The program emphasizes strong communication skills and fluency in medical terminology, ensuring you are well-prepared for your future career. With hands-on training from experienced faculty and a seven-week placement, you will gain the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to excel in medical laboratory work.

Program Structure

The Medical Laboratory Assistant program at Cambrian College is designed to be completed in 3 semesters over 1 year. This full-time program is delivered on campus and includes a variety of learning experiences to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation. Key features of the program structure include:

  • Hands-on training: Students receive practical training in a lab setting.
  • Clinical placement: A seven-week placement in a clinical laboratory is included, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
  • Accredited program: The program is recognized by Accreditation Canada.
  • Limited enrolment: This ensures a focused learning environment.

Graduates of this program may also have the opportunity to apply for advanced standing in the Medical Laboratory Technology program at Cambrian College, subject to meeting minimum grade requirements.

Featured Experiences

The Medical Laboratory Assistant program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and prepare students for their careers:

  • Clinical placements: Students gain practical experience by working in hospitals and private labs during their seven-week placement.
  • Work-integrated learning: The program blends academic learning with hands-on training, providing opportunities to apply knowledge in real-world settings.
  • Exposure to various lab environments: Students may work in diverse settings, including diagnostic labs, fertility clinics, and pharmaceutical research testing clinics.
  • Collaboration with experienced faculty: Students benefit from the guidance of knowledgeable instructors throughout their training.

Career Options

Graduates of the Medical Laboratory Assistant program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

  • Medical Laboratory Assistant: Support laboratory technologists by preparing samples and conducting basic lab tests.
  • Phlebotomist: Specialize in blood collection and ensure patient comfort during the process.
  • Laboratory Technician: Assist in the analysis of samples and maintain laboratory equipment.
  • Clinical Research Assistant: Support clinical trials and research studies by managing data and samples.
  • Specimen Collection Technician: Work in blood centers or clinics, focusing on the collection and processing of specimens.

These roles are essential in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, diagnostic labs, and private practices, providing a solid foundation for a rewarding career in the medical field.

 

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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