Application Process

Application deadline is November 30th for the Fall 2026 class. All materials, including but not limited to letters of recommendation, transcripts, and non-refundable deposit must be received by November 30th.

• Thank you for considering our Medical Laboratory Science Program. The program starts for our 3+1 students in late July and continues until the following June. Each cohort has a maximum capacity of 20 students. All students will have both their Core and Non-Core clinical training at one of the following NorthShore sites:
  • Evanston Hospital, Evanston, Illinois
  • Highland Park Hospital, Highland Park, Illinois
  • Glenbrook Hospital, Glenview, Illinois
  • Skokie Hospital, Skokie, Illinois
  • Swedish Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
  • Northwest Community Hospital, Arlington Heights, Illinois
  • Elmhurst Hospital, Elmhurst, Illinois
  • Edwards Hospital, Naperville, Illinois

Both the Basic Laboratory and the Non-Core clinical training will be at Evanston Hospital. See our program handbook for more details.

While there is no application deadline, seats are limited for each cohort, and admission will be considered as time and space allows.

Qualifications

Minimum criteria for consideration of admission to the Medical Laboratory Science Program include:

• Academic Credit Students from Affiliated Universities: Completion of all pre-requisite clinical laboratory science courses required by the university that render a student eligible for a baccalaureate degree at the completion of the clinical program. Post-baccalaureate Students: The baccalaureate degree should include the following courses (all science courses must include their respective laboratories):

1. Twelve (12) semester hours (18 quarter hours) of biological science
2. Four (4) semester hours (6 quarter hours) of microbiology
3. Ten (10) semester hours (15 quarter hours) of chemistry
4. Five (5) semester hours (7.5 quarter hours) organic chemistry or biochemistry
5. Three (3) semester hours (4.5 quarter hours) in immunology
6. Three (3) semester hours (4.5 quarter hours) in mathematics

• Grade Point Average: A cumulative grade point average of not less than 2.8 (4 point system) with a cumulative 2.8 in biology and chemistry courses taken.
• Immunizations: Upon acceptance, students must also submit proof of immunization to measles, mumps, rubella and varicella.  Students will also be required to submit proof of a negative TB test (2-step) or a negative TB skin test at least 2x in the last 12 months. The Hepatitis B vaccine series is also required for all students.
• Proof of Insurance: Proof of health insurance and professional liability coverage must be received before the first day of the clinical education. The hospital will provide emergency service for a student; charges incurred will be the responsibility of the student.

Selection Criteria

When an application is received, the following procedure is used to process it.

1. The application is held until transcripts from all universities attended and two reference letters are received. If the applicant is an international graduate, the external transcript evaluation must also be a part of the student’s file.
2. If the grade point average meets the minimum requirements, the student is contacted to set up an interview.
3. Formal interview with the applicant at Evanston Hospital.
4. Utilizing selection criteria, the class is selected and alternate places are assigned by the Admissions Committee.

Once admission eligibility has been established, students are selected using the following criteria:

1. Cumulative and science grade point averages.
2. Reference letters from biology, chemistry and laboratory instructors; letters from employers (supervisors and managers) are also acceptable.
3. Extracurricular activities/volunteerism relating to public health and your community.
4. Personal statement explaining your interest and dedication to the field of laboratory science.
5. Evaluation of the interview; the form used in scoring is furnished upon request.

Admission to the Medical Laboratory Science Program is made without discrimination because of race, color, gender, religion, disability and national or ethnic origin.