College Certificate - Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician (1620) at Conestoga College - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-06-03

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician program is a one-year, three-term course designed to equip students with essential skills for performing pre-analysis components of medical lab work. Under the supervision of medical laboratory technologists, students will gain hands-on experience in various settings, including hospitals and private laboratories. The program emphasizes proficiency in blood sample collection, ECGs, and the use of laboratory equipment, while also enhancing communication and interpersonal skills for effective patient interaction. Graduates will be eligible to write the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) exams, paving the way for a rewarding career in the healthcare sector.

Program Structure

The Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician program is structured as follows:

Program Length: 1 year (3 academic terms)
Delivery Method: In-person classes at the Kitchener – Doon campus
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Start Dates: January 2026 and May 2026

This program also offers advanced standing opportunities for graduates to transition into the Medical Laboratory Science program, allowing for further academic and professional development. It is important to note that this program is highly competitive, and applicants are encouraged to apply by specific deadlines to secure their place.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on training in medical laboratory settings under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Development of essential skills in blood sample collection and ECGs.
Fluency in medical terminology to enhance communication with patients and healthcare teams.
Opportunities for advanced standing in further medical laboratory studies.

Career Options

Graduates of the Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician program can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Medical Laboratory Assistant: Support laboratory technologists by preparing samples and performing basic lab tests.
Phlebotomist: Specialize in drawing blood from patients for tests, transfusions, or donations.
Laboratory Technician: Conduct tests and analyses on biological samples, ensuring accuracy and compliance with protocols.
ECG Technician: Perform electrocardiograms to monitor heart activity and assist in diagnosing cardiac conditions.
Healthcare Support Worker: Provide assistance in various healthcare settings, ensuring patient care and support.

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

Visit Conestoga College official website

Last updated on 2025-06-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the College Certificate in Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician program, applicants must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the majority of courses at the College (C), University (U), or University/College (M) level, including:
- Grade 12 English - ENG4U, ENG4C, EAE4C, or EAE4U, or Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1251)
Grade 12 Math (C) or (U); minimum 65% or Preparatory Mathematics (MATH1420)
Grade 11 or 12 Chemistry (C) or (U); minimum 65% or Preparatory Chemistry (SCIE1030)
Grade 11 or 12 Biology (C) or (U); minimum 65% or Preparatory Biology (SCIE1010)
The Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas certificate or equivalent courses from the Academic Upgrading programs offered by Colleges across Ontario.
It is recommended that Chemistry be completed within five years prior to the start date of the program.
Grade 11 Biology is accepted for admission; however, Grade 12 Biology is recommended based on the material covered in the program.

For international students, if your transcripts are from outside of Canada, you will need to obtain a course-by-course comprehensive evaluation. You can use an approved provider of credential evaluation services such as ICAS or WES. Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is important to note that a sound English background is crucial for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs apply.

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure their place in the program. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the College Certificate - Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician (1620) program at Conestoga College, you must provide proof of English proficiency in one of the following ways:

6.0 IELTS Academic (with no band less than 5.5)
80 TOEFL (Effective January 2024, no individual skill less than 20)

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview

Intake	Status	Open date to apply	Deadline to apply	Campus
January 2026	Closed	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
May 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
January 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
May 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available