Academic & Admission Information

Genetics of red blood cell antigen groups, inheritance and frequencies, pretransfusion screening for unexpected antibodies to red cell antigens, antibody identification phases and methods -- manual and automated, detection of antibody-sensitized cells. Donor blood collection methods, donor screening and history, component preparation and storage, appropriate component selection, component therapies. Cord blood evaluation for HDFN, screening and quantitation of feto-maternal hemorrhage, prophylactic administration of immunoglobulin-D. Monitoring and regulation of storage and usage. Judicious use and handling of limited and perishable resources.

Biochemical measurement of organ-/system-specific analytes to identify normal metabolic functions and/or differentiate disease states, including diabetes, renal, hepatic, and pancreatic disease, blood gases, electrolyte and acid-base balance, cardiac disease, hormone regulation, vitamin deficiencies, therapeutic drug monitoring, toxicology; and special considerations in geriatrics, pediatrics and pregnancy. Exploration of various methodologies in automated systems.

Examination of blood formation, circulatory system function, cell types and cell functions, description of normal and disease states, manual and automated measurement of hematological parameters, and cell identification/differentials. Study of hemostasis, mechanisms, components, sequences, with manual and automated principles and methods screening for coagulopathies, platelet function and therapeutic anticoagulation.

Clinical application of microbiological identification of normal flora vs. clinically significant organisms vs. opportunistic infections in disease processes. Selection of appropriate culture media for specimen type/acceptability. Morphological and biochemical identification by manual and automated methods, susceptibility testing. Visual, biochemical and immunological identification of human parasites and mycoses. Application of molecular/PCR/NAT in identification of fastidious organisms and viruses. Immunological and fluorescent methods in evaluation of diseases and autoimmune conditions.

Overview of the human immune system and responses. Principles of antibody-antigen reactions utilized in clinical testing methods, detection of antigen or antibody as indication of disease in rapid immunological testing and fluorescent methods in evaluation of diseases and autoimmune conditions. Principles of antigen-antibody reactions used in automation such as in chemistry analyzers. Prerequisite information applicable to immunohematology (Blood Banking). Current and historical methodologies are discussed.

Renal anatomy and function, acceptable specimen requirements for testing orders, manual and automated biochemical testing of urine, microscopic examination and disease correlation. Formation of various body fluids, clinical significance and disease processes, analysis for cells, crystals and biochemistries, semen analysis. Automated and manual cell counting and calculation methods are used.

Study on blood and specimen collection techniques, including venipuncture, capillary collection, nasal and throat swabs, urine collection methods, patient instruction and preparation, with a philosophy of customer service. The class covers specimen and testing requirements, specimen processing, handling, transport, and storage. Other areas of study include discussion of appropriate ordering and associated documentation requirements, such as diagnosis coding, frequency, AMA terminology. Customer-focused AIDET communication, cultural diversity awareness, age appropriate communication, consideration of compassion and empathy is covered in this class.

Explanation of principles of instrumentation, including but not limited to particle/cell counting, clot detection, colorimetric detection, spectrophotometric absorbance, fluorescence, rate reactions, ion selective electrodes, enzyme and immunoassay, electrochemiluminescence, nucleic acid amplification and biochemical staining as applicable in clinical chemistry, hematology, coagulation, immunohematology and microbiology. Principles of quality control, and overview of clinical laboratory departments and testing. Also measuring, pipetting and dilution techniques, and associated laboratory mathematics. Laboratory safety, chemical hygiene, fire safety and response, and security awareness are presented in our orientation program on the first day of the program.

Principles of clinical trials and studies, research design and methods. Students will as a group and/or individually in the design, implementation, data-gathering, evaluation, summarizing and presentation (dissemination) of findings. The research topic may be assigned or suggested by the program, or chosen by the student(s) with approval of the program. The topic should reflect contemporary laboratory medicine issues of major clinical disciplines (Hematology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Blood Banking). These areas of study may involve new method evaluation improved diagnostic tools or instrumentation, workflow efficiency, data-mining in evaluation of current methodologies for efficacy, patient safety and/or improving patient outcomes.

Presented by laboratory administrators on subjects including quality management, regulatory/accrediting organizations, accrediting agency inspection processes e.g. CAP, laboratory information systems and EMR, point of care testing applications and usage, reference laboratory testing and utilization, Six Sigma, laboratory supervision and management concerns including hiring and budget, and corporate compliance, overview of education and training methods. Principles addressed in these topics may also be presented in specific context in the clinical education courses. Independent Case Study Investigation: Investigation of case studies intended to relate various areas of laboratory testing together to identify disease conditions. Computer instructional modules representative of technical continuing educational requirements.

Purdue University 3+1 student equivalency = 32 credits

Real-time daily laboratory experience in this segment of the MLS program, alongside designated clinical trainers in all areas of clinical laboratory including Blood Bank, Chemistry, Hematology, Coagulation, Microbiology, Parasitology, Mycology, Immunology, Urinalysis, Body Fluids, Phlebotomy, and Specimen Processing and Handling. Specimen acceptability; pre-analytical handling, manual and automated testing; evaluation and interpretation of analytic validity of results in the context of specimen, instrument function and patient disease/condition; post-analytical considerations, such as reporting and documentation of results including any actions, investigation, follow-up and required notifications. Routine instrument maintenance, calibrations, quality control, observation of troubleshooting and repair, as necessary. Review and participation in basic departmental supervisory activities. A brief research/review topic, continuing education activity or case study may be assigned for presentation to the department staff, supervisors and administration during the final week of the clinical rotation.

We have three clinical laboratory sites within our own system, standardized in procedures, instrumentation, policy, procedure and LIS. The laboratory operates as a unified system. With our small class size and the three available sites, we have the opportunity to place our students into clinical sites. We are not dependent on locations outside of our own at this time, which could opt to withdraw participation or affiliation.

The goal for the student is to learn processes, instrumentation, and perform laboratory testing. During the clinical practicum, as the student displays acceptable or appropriate skill, instrument operation, or technique to the designated trainer, the student may perform testing under direct guidance/supervision of the trainer.

The student is not expected to perform as a substitute for the trainer in the capacity of an employee.

Clinical training rotations are concurrent with classroom lectures; however, clinical rotations/departments may not coincide with lecture/classroom subjects.

Credit Hour Equivalents for Purdue University Northwest

Credit Hour Equivalents for Calumet College of St. Joseph 

Program grading terminology is based on the following scale and percentages:

Course grade consists of combined lecture, student lab and clinical performance grades.

Overall grade of 75% or better in each course area is necessary to receive certificate of completion in this program

Overall grade is calculated as follows:

• Lecture Grade 40% of overall grade: Exams/Classroom grades, (35%); Affective Performance Evaluation (5%).
• Student Laboratory Grade 20% of overall grade: Evaluated on participation, specimen handling/dexterity, equipment handling and care, results and calculations, following direction/procedures, neatness and organization.
• Clinical Rotation Training 40% of overall grade: Activities and quizzes, (30%); Affective Performance Evaluation, (10%). 
• Criteria for Affective Performance include attributes, such as: Demonstration of skill and dexterity; consistency in academic and clinical performance; professionalism, composure, demeanor, attitude and adaptability to workload stresses and changing situations; verbal communication skills; initiative; and interaction in the classroom and clinical setting.

Nicole Griffin, MA, MLS(ASCP)^CMSM^CM, Program Director, School of MLS
Kristina McKim, MHA, MT(ASCP), Clinical Instructor, School of MLS
Monica Mendoza, MLS(ASCP)^CM, Clinical Instructor, School of MLS

Participating Guest Lecturers (in alphabetical order)

Rusty Allport, MBA, MT(ASCP), Lab Administrative Director, St. Catherine Hospital
Al Amaloo, MT(ASCP), Lab Administrative Director, St. Mary Medical Center
Mary S. Rudzinski, MT(ASCP), Supervisor, Chemistry
Arist Sgouroudis, MT(ASCP)SBB, Laboratory Administrative Director, Community Hospital

It is the responsibility of the student to make necessary arrangements to be in the classroom, student laboratory, and clinical training at the scheduled start time. Consistent attendance and punctuality is expected. Dependability is a valuable attribute to employers in providing outstanding clinical laboratory services.

Absence and tardiness will be recorded, based on the following criteria; and are subject to the stated consequences.

Student is allowed 9 attendance point for the year. Points will be assessed, as follows:

Absence: Notification of absence must be made to program director or clinical department supervisor at least 1-hour prior to scheduled start time.

Absence due to weather-related emergencies may be covered under system policy.
Code White (SMMC -SAFE 1.14), Weather Emergency (HR 395)

Tardy: Arrival after assigned starting time of class, lab or clinical training day. Repeated tardies are disruptive to the class and presenter. Tardiness will be documented in performance evaluation.

Leave Early: Arrangement must be made in advance for legitimate early dismissal from class/lab or clinical training day. Documentation may be required.  Leaving early due to illness or injury will be documented through facility health service.

Excused Absence: Requires >24 hour notice with appropriate and acceptable documentation of reason, ex. funeral of immediate family, required court appearance, or other situation -- discussed in advance -- with program director. No points are assessed for this excused absence.

Routine doctor appointments, family events, vacations and such should be scheduled for times outside of program days/hours.

 **1% reduction in course grade during lecture section includes both concurrent courses -1% in hematology and -1% in microbiology (ex., current hemo grade 88% reduced to 87%, and micro 90% reduced to 89%; if additional absence, then reduced to 86% and 88%) 1% reduction in a clinical rotation involves the grade in that rotation only (ex., clinical rotation chemistry current grade 94% reduced to 93%, additional absence in same clinical rotation, grade reduced to 92%).

Student is responsible for any and all material missed due to absence or tardiness.
Student laboratory exercises requiring significant preparation time and/or limited reagent usage are not to subject to make up. (Spectrophotometer, micro plating and growth, specialized instrumentation use: ex., cardiac reader). A quiz over the missed laboratory material will make up for missing laboratory.

Student laboratory exercises such as microscopy (urinalysis and blood cell differentials, gram stains) may be performed within subsequent laboratory time, provided current lab activity is satisfactorily completed prior to the make-up work.

Tardy to student laboratory results in loss of time for completion of the exercise.

Lecture examination dates are scheduled in advance.

In the event of unavoidable excused absence on an exam day, the student must take the exam on the preceding day.

Absence on exam day will result in 5% deduction on the grade; and the exam must be made up on the day of return during lunch period or after class day is over.

Tardy to the start of an exam results in loss of that allotted time for taking the examination.

Tardy to the extent of missing an exam; exam must be taken the same day during lunch period or after class day is over.

Note: Exam given on the day before or after the scheduled date will be a different, yet equivalent examination.

Weather-related Absence

Absence due to weather-related emergencies may be covered under system policy: Code White (SMMC -SAFE 1.14), Weather Emergency (HR 395).

Weather-related emergency, declaration of code white, blizzard, ice or code black may not be assessed as absence, but may require makeup work. Student is responsible for classroom material. Necessity of make-up days for clinical rotation may be determined by progress made in and content of department, by the department supervisor.

The School of MLS expects commitment to academic integrity in this program.

Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Forms of academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to: cheating on assignments or examinations, copying other student's work or allowing others to copy from you, falsifying experimental results and data, and plagiarism. Consequences of dishonest actions may result in zero grade, disciplinary action and/or dismissal from the program.

Student advising, counseling, grievance, disciplinary action, must be impartial. These and all student personal information will be held confidentially by the program administration and may only be disclosed or discussed with involved faculty or party(ies), or advisory committee on a need-to-know basis; and only to the extent of the specific incident or concern.

Students may request guidance regarding aspects of courses, labs or clinical experiences from the program director, faculty member or dean.

For concerns regarding career path or placement, the student may request discussion with the laboratory site director.

Completion of this program and/or passing a certification examination does not imply or guarantee employment with Powers Health.

For guidance or counseling for personal or other issues not directly related to participation in the program, student may access the following resources: ComPsych (1-800-344-9754) or www.guidanceresources.com, follow up with the student's own healthcare provider or reach out to resources of city, county or state agencies.

In the event of student's personal life changes, health, family situation, or indication of desire to withdraw from the program, counseling may be offered to resolve issues related to the program,to facilitate the student's continuation in the program.

For guidance or counseling for personal or other issues not directly related to participation in the program, student may access the following resources: ComPsych (1-800-344-9754) or www.guidanceresources.com, follow up with the student's own healthcare provider or reach out to resources of city, county or state agencies.

However upon a decision to withdraw, the following procedures will occur:

1. Student will submit a letter of withdrawal from the program, with effective withdrawal date, to the program director.
2. Program director, faculty member, and/or objective member of the advisory committee will conduct an exit interview, and collect the student identification badge.
3. Student will be asked to submit a written student evaluation of the program portion that was completed.
4. Program director will complete a Documentation of Withdrawal/Dismissal Form to maintain in the student file.

No refund of tuition is made for withdrawal beyond the initial 30-day, 50% refund period.

See Student information; Guidance/Counseling

Voluntary withdrawal may not preclude student from re-entering the program upon reapplication and selection process. Reapplication does not guarantee readmission to the program.

If readmission occurs, the entire program must be repeated. No partial credit, or continuation will be granted.

A goal of our program is to instruct and educate motivated students. The student is expected to strive to be successful, learn and participate in all activities. In the event of poor student performance, failing grades, inability to comprehend basic laboratory and safety principles and processes, or inability to perform laboratory tests/follow procedures, a student may be placed on academic probation.

A student must maintain passing scores in their courses.

On the first instance of a student receiving a score of less than 75%  (failing score) on a major course examination, the student will receive a written warning. Academic counseling may be offered to remedy the circumstances. The major courses are: Blood Bank, Chemistry, Hematology and Microbiology.

On a second instance of a student receiving a score of less than 75% (failing score) on a major course examination, the student is placed on academic probation. Probation extends for the remainder of that course. A written notification will be given to the student advising of probationary status. Student must improve performance in order to remain in the program.

The student may not be scheduled for work hours -- if employed by our system laboratories -- while on academic probation.

If the student receives another score of less than 75% on a major course examination in the same or other course, the student may be subject to dismissal.

Failure or inability to achieve passing scores may lead to dismissal from the program. A committee comprised of the program director, faculty, and member(s) of the Advisory Committee will convene to assess and evaluate the circumstances and documentation; and determine the outcome.

The program director, faculty member, and/or objective member of the Advisory Committee will conduct an exit interview, request a student-written evaluation of the program and complete a Documentation of Withdrawal/Dismissal Form.

No refund of tuition is made for dismissal beyond the initial 30-day, 50% refund period.

Dismissal from the program may result from uncorrected poor performance or any infraction or repeated infractions of personnel/professionalism/safety policy. Confidential written documentation including applicable policy, description of and acknowledgement of infraction, impartial and confidential counseling, corrective action plan and follow-up will be maintained by the program director.

A committee comprised of the program director, faculty, member(s) of the Advisory Committee and a representative from Human Resources will convene to assess and evaluate the circumstances and documentation; and determine the outcome.
The program director, faculty member, and/or objective member of the Advisory Committee will conduct an exit interview, request a student-written evaluation of the program and complete a Documentation of Withdrawal/Dismissal Form.

No refund of tuition is made for dismissal beyond the initial 30 day, 50% refund period.

Students are expected to have these essential functions for participation in Community Hospital Medical Laboratory Science School:

Physical Activities

Weight and Force Demands

L=Lift, M=Move or B=Both

Mental Functions

Work Environment

Vision Demands / Noise Levels

Announcing academic affiliations for 3+1 applicants at Purdue University Northwest and Calumet College of St. Joseph

Students Options:

4+1 Plan Applicants with BS Degree

A BS or BA degree specified in biological sciences, microbiology, chemistry with biology courses, or pre-professional curriculum.

Minimum of one course in Microbiology, and Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry is required.

Recommended background courses include anatomy and physiology, cell biology, genetics, human biology, immunology, additional microbiology courses, molecular biology, and physics.

• Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.7
• Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) in Sciences of 2.7

All college or university transcripts, stating the degree granted and date, must be submitted. Also considered are the number and variety of courses taken and the number of courses that are dropped, failed or repeated.

3+1 Plan Applicants from Purdue University Northwest and Calumet College of St. Joseph

All requirements prescribed for the Medical Laboratory Science curriculum of the university including (approximately six semesters). Consult your academic advisor.

Two semesters of Clinical Training are completed at Powers Health (Munster, IN) to fulfill graduation requirements. Students must be eligible to work legally in the United States to participate in clinical training at the affiliated hospital.

For acceptance into our clinical program, applicants must have:

• Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.7
• Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) in Sciences of 2.7

NOTE: Completion of prerequisite courses at Purdue University Northwest or Calumet College of St. Joseph does not guarantee admission to the Powers Health hospital program. Consult your advisor for the application procedure.

Credit Hour Equivalents for Purdue University Northwest

Credit Hour Equivalents for Calumet College of St. Joseph 

All college or university transcripts, stating the degree granted and date, must be submitted. Also considered are the number and variety of courses taken and the number of courses that are dropped, failed or repeated.

The School of MLS also requires:

• An academic, employment and personal interview.
• One-page personal narrative describing your interest and motivation for a career in Medical Laboratory Science.
• Criminal background check, drug screen, medical and immunization history.
• Tuition, $5,000, to be paid in full two weeks before the start date of your program year; and purchase of required textbooks.
• A partial, 50 percent, refund of tuition may be made by the School of MLS if withdrawal/dismissal occurs within 30 working days of the program start date. No refunds will be made beyond the 30-day deadline for any reason.

Note: The School of Medical Laboratory Science does not have Student Visa Program capability this year.

Credit for Experiential Learning: In a case where a student in the program is currently working or had recently been employed in a clinical laboratory department for a minimum of one year, part of the practicum may be waived, pending verification and evaluation of duties performed, volume and nature of tests performed and instrumentation used. These credit instances will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Community Hospital School of Medical Laboratory Science is dedicated to the principle of equal opportunity in every aspect of the program, including but not limited to application, applicant review, selection process, classroom, laboratory, and clinical training, evaluation and potential employment placement.

Community Hospital School of Medical Laboratory Science is committed to providing a fair and equitable school/learning environment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, military or veteran status, handicap or disability -- within the ability to perform essential functions of the position. A persons' status, as defined by these criteria, is protected by law; and discrimination based upon or related to any of these criteria is strictly prohibited.

In compliance with all federal and state laws that are applicable to the admission/selection/participation relationship, Community Hospital School of Medical Laboratory Science prohibits retaliation in the form of adverse assessment/treatment in any form because of a student's exercise of legally protected rights and activities. This includes but is not limited to the filing of a charge or complaint of discrimination, a complaint to the school disclosing unlawful discrimination in the classroom or laboratory, and participation in a discrimination investigation or proceeding.

Application Process for Community Hospital School of Medical Laboratory Science

Click here to download the application form.

• Complete every item of the application and your narrative.
• Send to the address below.
• Your application must include a brief, one-page personal narrative describing your interest and motivation for Medical Laboratory Science.

Note: The School of MLS does not have student visa program capability this year.

Send your application, and request electronic or paper college transcript(s) to be sent directly to the address below:

Nicole J. Griffin, MA, MLS (ASCP)^CMSM^CM
Program Director, Community Hospital School of Medical Laboratory Science
Powers Health Laboratory
901 MacArthur Blvd.
Munster, IN 46321 

Electronic application submissions should be sent to njgriffin@powershealth.org

Note: Application cannot be considered until all transcripts have been received. Minimum overall GPA 2.75.

Based on initial assessment the School of MLS may contact you to schedule an interview and request a:

• Criminal background check
• Drug screen
• Immunization record
• Medical history