Medical Laboratory Science
(Formerly Medical Technology)
Mount Mercy offers a four-year major leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in medical laboratory science. The first three years are spent at the institution completing curriculum requirements, core curriculum requirements, and electives to total 91 semester hours. The fourth year is spent in a 12-month internship at an affiliated hospital school of clinical laboratory science and technology approved by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). During this clinical year, a minimum of 32 hours of credit will be earned. An official transcript showing completion of the internship courses must be sent to the Registrar. Courses and grades will be evaluated and added to the student’s official Mount Mercy transcript. Upon satisfactory completion of this year, the BS degree will be awarded by Mount Mercy, and the graduate should then take the National Board examination required for registration as a medical technologist by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.
Admission to the medical laboratory science program at Mount Mercy does not ensure admission to the fourth year internship at the affiliated hospital. Each hospital internship program may accept or reject applicants on the basis of scholarship, health, personality, suitability for the profession, and enrollment limitations. Most hospital internship programs require a minimum science GPA of 2.50. A criminal background check is required prior to the fourth year internship.
Mount Mercy is affiliated with the NAACLS-approved programs of clinical laboratory science and technology of St. Luke’s Methodist Hospital, Cedar Rapids and Mercy College of Health Sciences, Des Moines. Applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree which included the required science and mathematics courses may intern at any NAACLS-approved hospital school. Students will need to consent to a criminal background check prior acceptance of internship.
MLS majors should, for example, be able to: recall the fundamentals of chemistry and biology needed to work as a licensed Medical Laboratory Specialist; explain the basic safety principles in handling chemicals; and understand the key techniques of data collection.
Career Opportunities
Hospitals, clinics, and medical laboratories are prime employers of medical technologists.
Major
12-month internship program. Also required outside the major:
Chemistry
| CH 111 | General Chemistry I | 4.5 |
| CH 112 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| CH 211 | Organic Chemistry I | 4.5 |
| CH 212 | Organic Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| CH 251 | Analytical Chemistry | 5 |
| CH 302 | Biochemistry | 5 |
Biology
| BI 125 | Foundations of Biology & Scientific Inquiry I | 3 |
| BI 126 | Found of Biology & Scientific Inquiry II | 4.5 |
| BI 243 | Immunology | 3 |
| BI 274 | Human Physiology | 3 |
| BI 274L | Human Physiology Laboratory | 1.5 |
| BI 303 | Genetics | 4.5 |
| BI 315 | General Microbiology | 4.5 |
| BI 370 | Cell and Molecular Biology | 5 |
Math
| MA 135 | Basic Statistics | 3 |
Nursing
| NU 211 | Medical Terminology (Independent study) | 1 |
Philosophy
| PL 169 | Introduction To Ethics (fulfills Domain IV requirement) | 3 |
Academic Requirements
A grade of C or above (C- does not count) in all required courses and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 in required science courses.
Typical Plan of Study
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | Spring | Hours |
| BI 125 | 3 | BI 126 | 4.5 |
| CH 111 | 4.5 | CH 112 | 4.5 |
| 7.5 | 9 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Hours | ||
| CH 211 | 4.5 | ||
| BI 315 | 4.5 | ||
| 9 | |||
| Total Hours: 25.5 | |||
BI Courses
BI 110 Natural World Domain Lab: 1 semester hour
A laboratory that fulfills the requirement of the Natural World domain for transfer students who have taken a non-laboratory based non-major course before transferring into Mount Mercy. This course is only offered to this group of students. (Offered winter term on a temporary basis as long as needed).
BI 123 Biology Of Human Concern: 4 semester hours
For non-science majors. Study of the broad general principles of biology and of current environmental and ethical problems arising as our knowledge and technological competencies increase. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab per week. (Cannot be taken by Biology majors after successful completion of BI 143 Principles of Biology). Fulfills requirement of Natural World Domain for non-major students.
BI 125 Foundations of Biology & Scientific Inquiry I: 3 semester hours
An introduction to the unifying principles of modern biology with an emphasis on introductions to the interrelationships of cell physiology and anatomy, biochemistry, genetics, evolution, and development. No prerequisites. Three hous of lecture per week. Biology majors/minors, medical laboratory science majors, outdoor conservation majors and education majors must concurrently enroll in the BI 125 lab. Fulfills requirement of Natural World Domain when taken with the BI 125 lab.
BI 125L Biostatistics and Scientific Investigation I: 1.5 semester hour
A laboratory course designed to reinforce BI 125 through experimentation, data analysis, inquiry, discussion of readings, and communication. The course will include fundamentals of interpretation of scientific writing, introduction to scientific writing, and the foundations of statistical analysis. Students enrolled in BI 125 are not required to take BI 125L, but students enrolled in the laboratory must take BI 125 concurrently or get permission of the instructor to enroll. (Offered each fall semester).
BI 126 Found of Biology & Scientific Inquiry II: 4.5 semester hours
A laboratory course designed to reinforce BI 125 that focuses on additional topics in inheritance, population genetics, speciation and classification, introduction to ecosystems, and evolution of prokaryotes, protistans, and fungi. Additional topics in statistics and scientific communication will also be integral to the course. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in BI 125 and BI 125L. Three hours lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.
BI 127 Foundations of Biology & Scientific Inquiry III: 4.5 semester hours
The evolution of plants and animals will be surveyed focusing on physiologial and anatomical adaptations. Additional topics in statistics and scientific communication will also be integral to the course. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in BI 125 and the BI 125 lab (C- does not count). Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.
BI 150 Basic Microbiology: 4.5 semester hours
Introduction to the study of microorganisms, with special emphasis on medically important bacteria, viruses, and fungi; includes practical applications for control of pathogens, epidemiology and diagnosis, mechanisms of infection and host resistance. Weekly 3 hours lecture and 3 hours laboratory. Prerequisite: BI 143, not for major/minor credit in biology or medical technology and may not substitute for BI 315. fulfills requirement of Natural World Domain for nursing majors.
BI 210 Biology And Human Culture: 3 semester hours
The course will explore the interaction between culture, evolution, and biology from a variety of perspectives in a seminar format. The customs of different cultures are often deterimed by and /or affected by biological factors. These will be studied from a proximate and ultimate (evolutionary) standpoint in a comparison of both non-Western and Western culture to better understand and appreciate different cultural practices and beliefs, how they evolved, and what implications they have for the world. Students also will investigate a custom of their choice to ascertain the biological and cultural origins and significance of the custom. This course will not count for major/minor biology credit. Prereqisites: One course selected from a core curriculum writing courses, sophomore standing. Fulfills requirement of Global Awareness Domain.
BI 225 Global Environmental Issues: 4.5 semester hours
This course examines the human impacts on the global environment in a lecture, discussion and applied approach. Current research will be studied on the causes and effects of environmental change and environmental conservation. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in BI 125 or BI 123 or equivalent or permission of instructor. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab per week.
BI 242 Iowa Natural History: 4.5 semester hours
A survey of the natural history of Iowa focusing on geological forces, plant communities, and animal communities, and the impact of early humans, the first European settlers and present residents. The lab will focus on identification of skills. Weekend field trips will be an important component of the course. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in BI 125, BI 146 or BI 127, or permission of instructor. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab per week.
BI 243 Immunology: 3 semester hours
This course introduces students to the major basic concepts operating in the functioning of the immune system and the immunopathologies that arise due to the hyperfunction, hypofunction, or malfunction of this system. Major topics to be covered include non-specific immunity, specific immunity (cellular and humoral) hypersensitivities, immunologic deficiencies, tolerance, enhancement, immunogenetics, autoimmunity, cancer immunology, and transplantation. This introductory course gives students a basic understanding of the system as well as some basic concepts and terminology on which to build further knowledge in this area. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in BI 125 and BI 144 or BI 126; or BI 125 and BI 150.
BI 260 Professional Development for the Sciences: 1 semester hour
A seminar course designed to prepare future graduate and professional school science majors during early in their junior year. Students will learn about different career choices, how to prepare for standardized exams, the timing of application, interview skill, post-graduate admissions expectations, cover letters, and how to develop a resume to present.
BI 273 Human Anatomy: 4.5 semester hours
A lecture and laboratory course designed to give basic information for understanding normal structure and development of the human body. A regional approach to anatomy is used, complimented with dissection and examination of preserved human cadavers, practical applications, and discussions of basic concepts. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab per week, plus 45 hours of supervised dissection per term. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in BI 125 for Biology majors, and a D- or better for other majors.
BI 274 Human Physiology: 3 semester hours
A lecture course designed to introduce students to the physiological stystems of the human body. Emphasis is given to the interactive nature of these systems that result in normal physiological function. The medical implication of abnormalities and failure of these systems is also briefly covered. Three hours of lecture per week. A non-required option is BI 274, Basic Human Physiology Lab in which Biology majors may concurrently enroll. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in BI 125 for Biology and Medical Technology major, and a grade of D- or better for other majors.
BI 274L Human Physiology Laboratory: 1.5 semester hour
A laboratory course designed to provide demonstrations, experiments, and discussion to reinforce and supplement BI 274. Biology majors, especially those who intend to pursue medically-oriented programs, graduate programs, or education should take this laboratory concurrently with BI 274. Students enrolled in BI 274 are not required to take the laboratory, but students enrolled in the laboratory must take BI 274 concurrently or get permission from the instructor to enroll. One three-hour laboratory a week. (Offered each spring semester).
BI 303 Genetics: 4.5 semester hours
An exploration of the three main branches of heredity: transmission (classical), molecular, and population genetics. Transmission genetics examines how genes and genetic traits are passed from generation to generation. Molecular genetics probes the structure, function, and regulation of genes, while population genetics investigates through mathematical models and the distrubution and behavior of genes in populations. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week. Prerequisites: A grade of a C or better in BI 125 and BI 144 or BI 126, or BI 125 and BI 146 or BI 127.
BI 305 Evolution: 3 semester hours
Analysis of the theory of evolution, evidences of organic evolution provided by the various subdisciplines of biology and its mechanism and results. Three hours per week. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in BI 143 and BI 144; or BI 143 and BI 146 or permission of instructor.
BI 310 Ecology: 4.5 semester hours
A study of the relationships of organisms to each other and to their environment from an evolutionary perspective. Aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems will be studied form the perspective of the individual, the population, and the community. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in BI 144/BI 126 or BI 146/BI 127 or permission of the instructor. Statistics is recommended as is senior status.
BI 315 General Microbiology: 4.5 semester hours
This course studies the major fields of microbiology with an emphasis on bacteria and viruses. Topics include bacterial cell structure, metabolism, genetics, ecology and pathogenesis. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in BI 125, BI 144 or BI 126, CH 111, and CH 112.
BI 327 Histology: 4.5 semester hours
An intensive study of the embryologic origin, the development and the structure and function of the tissues of the human body. Lecture three hours per week, lab three hours per week. Prerequisties: A grade of C or better in BI 125 and BI 144 or BI 126.
BI 332 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy & Embryology: 5 semester hours
Phylogenetic study of the structure and function of the vertebrate animals. Lecture three hours per week. Two two-hour labs per week. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in BI 125 and BI 144 or BI 126.
BI 355 Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics: 3 semester hours
A course to introduce fundamentals of exercise physiology and biomechanics. Topics explored include: application of basic physiology knowledge to athletc training and exercise, review of nutrition for athletes, and concepts of physics as they relate to movement. This course will not count for major or minor biology credit. Prerequisites: PH 151, BI 274 or permission of instrucor. Recommend BI 273 and either a course in Evolution or a basic background.
BI 357 Animal Behavior: 4.5 semester hours
A comparative study of the evolution of animal behavior centering on the principles and mechanisms of behavior. Three hours lecture and one three-hour lab per week. Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in BI 125 and BI 144/BI 126, or PS 101 or permission of instructor.
BI 370 Cell and Molecular Biology: 5 semester hours
This course studies the cell structure and functions common to all eukaryotic organisms including: metabolism, organelle activity, gene expression, cell growth and division, and cell communication. The laboratory component will include learning to use various equipment and protocols scientists use to manipulate and visualize DNA, RNA, and protein in and from cells for research experiemtns. Three hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisties: A grade of a C or better in BI 125 and BI 127 or permission of instructor.
BI 405 Directed Readings in Biology: 3 semester hours
A course initiated by a student, a group of students, or an instructor based upon a topic of interest or a special need. The course will involve readings on the topic, discussion, and projects based upon the topic. Library research and internet research may also be a component along with written summaries of research and/or projects. Under ordinary cirucumstances this course cannot be used as one of the required electives for the biology major or minor. Prereqisties: Junior or Senior status, grades of C or better in appropriate background courses, and permission of instructor.
BI 440 Biology Internship: 3 semester hours
Directed educational experiences in employment situations under joint sponsorship by a faculty member and an employer. This course cannot be used as one of the three upper division electives.
BI 445 Independent Study: 3 semester hours
Readings and/or research. Course to be designed by the student in consultation with the instructor on a subject of special interest to the student. This course cannot be used as one of the three upper division electives.
BI 450 Independent Research: 3 semester hours
Independent research conducted at Mount Mercy or another recognized institution or research facility. Students will be responsible for collection, analysis, and presentation of original data. Presentation will be in both oral and written format, with the oral portion to be given at a recognized state or national scientific meeting. This course cannot be used as one of the three upper division electives.
CH Courses
CH 110 Introduction to General Chemistry: 4.5 semester hours
This course is recommended for students with no previous knowledge or with inadequate prepatration in high school chemistry. Emphasis is given to the following concepts: atomic and molecular structure, the nature of chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry, nomenclature, basic knowledge of thermodynamics and equilibrium, acids and bases. This course meets the needs of students not planning to take chemistry courses beyond CH 113. Students with minimal mathematical skills can use CH 110 as a preparatory course for CH 111 - General Chemistry I. Three hours lecture and one three-hour laboratory weekly.
CH 111 General Chemistry I: 4.5 semester hours
An introduction to the field of chemistry, providing an understanding of the structures of atoms, molecules and ions and their interactions, and a foundation for the further study of chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour lab weekly. Prerequisite: A Mathematics Pre-Algebra and Elementary Algebra Enhanced ACT subscore of 16 or higher; or a Mathematics score of 16 or higher on the former ACT; or completion of MA 008 with a grade of C or higher.
CH 112 General Chemistry II: 4.5 semester hours
Continuation of CH 111. Topics covered are: chemical kinetics; equilibrium and thermodynamics; acids and bases; electrochemistry; survey of metals, nonmetals, and transition metals; complexes; nuclear chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour lab weekley. Prerequisite: CH 111.
CH 113 Organobiochemistry: 4.5 semester hours
Designed for nursing and non-science majors. A terminal course, not to be used as a prerequisite to further courses in chemistry, except CH 203. Basic structure, formulas, nomenclature, and reactions of organic compounds. Fundamental concepts of biochemistry and metabolism of major molecules and their roll in biological processes. Three lectures and one two-hour lab weekly. Prerequisite: high school chemistry.
CH 203 Nutritional Biochemistry: 3 semester hours
The study of nutrients, their metabolic roles and biochemical effects on various tissues and organs of the body; role of the diet in promoting optimal health and performance. Prerequisite: CH 111, CH 112.
CH 207 Inorganic Qualitative Analysis: 3 semester hours
The course emphasizes descriptive inorganic chemistry (properties, structures, and reactions) of common elements and their compounds. Through the process of learning descriptive chemistry in the format of a scheme of analysis in the laboratory, students are challenged to bring to bear their manipulative and observational skills as the basis for indentifying substances. Theoretical and practical aspects of qualitative analysis are covered. Prerequistie: CH 111, CH 112.
CH 211 Organic Chemistry I: 4.5 semester hours
An introduction to organic chemistry; an integrated presentation with emphasis on the theoretical aspects and mechanisms of reactions. Detailed discussion of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, and stereochemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour lab weekly. Prerequisite: CH 111, CH 112.
CH 212 Organic Chemistry II: 4.5 semester hours
A continuation of CH 211. Functional groups discussed in detail. Introduction to absorption spectroscopy and qualitative identification of organic compounds; aromatic and heterocyclic compounds; macromolecules. Three lectures and one three-hour lab weekly. Prerequisite: CH 111, CH 112, CH 211.
CH 251 Analytical Chemistry: 5 semester hours
Theory and application of basic methods in quantitative analysis: titrimetric, gravimetric, chromatographic, potentiometric, and spectrophotometric determinations. Three lectures and one four-hour lab weekly. Prerequisites: CH 111, CH 112, MA 142 or MA 164.
CH 302 Biochemistry: 5 semester hours
Study of life at the molecular level. The course examines chemical reactions in living cells; central metabolic pathways; energy transformations, signal-transduction pathways; transmission of hereditary characteristics; molecular basis of certain diseases and other biological phenomena. Three hours of lecture per week. Prerequisites: CH 111, CH 112, CH 211, CH 212.
CH 334 Instrumental Analysis: 4.5 semester hours
The course teaches the underlying principles and practical aspects of using modern instruments in chemical analysis. Students will understand the chemistry relevant to sampling, sample preparation, and the chemical processes occurring in each instrument - such as electron transfer, electron emission, light scattering and absorption, gas and liquid phase equilibria. Prerequisites: CH 111, CH 112, CH 211, CH 212, CH 251.