SOUTHERN ALBERTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · CANADA
Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma
Diploma · Taught in en · UCAS 51.1005
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Diploma
Level
- 90%Graduate Employment Rate
- $66,632Average Starting Salary
- 2 yearsProgram Length
- Accreditation CanadaAccreditation
- Blended (Main Campus and Online)Location
- PGWP eligiblePost-Graduation Work Permit
The Medical Laboratory Technology program is a two-year, full-time diploma designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare as medical laboratory technologists. This program provides comprehensive training in medical laboratory science, equipping graduates to contribute to patient care through diagnostic testing, treatment monitoring, and disease prevention. You will learn to apply scientific and technical principles in various healthcare laboratory settings. The curriculum covers analyzing bodily fluids, detecting pathogens, blood analysis (hematology), tissue preparation and staining (histology), and blood transfusion services (serology). The program emphasizes developing professional responsibility, critical thinking, and collaborative skills essential for the healthcare field. The first year focuses on foundational classroom learning and simulated lab training, while the second year includes an in-depth clinical practicum in real-world laboratory environments across different medical laboratory disciplines.
Curriculum
The Medical Laboratory Technology diploma requires 88.5 credits (31 courses) to complete, spanning two years with three semesters per year. The program focuses on building a strong foundation in laboratory science and practical application through simulated and real-world experiences.
- Year 1
- Anatomy and PhysiologyANPH 209
- MLT Clinical Chemistry 1CHEM 252
- Year 2
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the health technology field, which is critical to the healthcare system and experiencing growth due to medical advancements and increased demand for diagnostic services. Opportunities exist in hospitals, medical diagnostic centres, and research facilities.
- Medical Laboratory Technologists
- Medical Laboratory Assistants and Related Technical Occupations
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma program?
- The program is a two-year, full-time diploma. It requires 88.5 credits across two years with three semesters per year.
- What are the academic entry requirements for this diploma program?
- Applicants need a High School Diploma and must meet specific course requirements. For 2027/28 onwards, applicants can meet current requirements or complete SAIT's Pre-Health Sciences program with a minimum 3.0 GPA and specific grades in ANPH 206, ANPH 207, CHEM 229, COMM 269, and MATH 269.
- Is an English language proficiency test required for admission?
- Yes, applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency. Specific score requirements are not listed but are part of the admission process.
- What career opportunities are available after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Medical Laboratory Technologists and Medical Laboratory Assistants. Opportunities exist in hospitals, medical diagnostic centres, and research facilities, with a 90% graduate employment rate and an average starting salary of $66,632.
- How do international students apply to the Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma?
- International applicants must review admission requirements, complete the School of Health and Public Safety's Entrance Testing Process, submit an application through the SAIT portal, and provide all required documents, including transcripts and proof of English proficiency.
Entry requirements
High School DiplomaSee specific course requirements for admission. For 2027/28 onwards, applicants may meet current requirements or have completed SAIT's Pre-Health Sciences program with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a B- in ANPH 206, ANPH 207, CHEM 229, COMM 269, and MATH 269.
English Language ProficiencyDemonstrated (specific score not listed)
All applicants must complete the School of Health and Public Safety's Entrance Testing Process.
Fees
Tuition (international)Contact SAIT for current international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Contact SAIT for current domestic tuition fees.
LivingEstimated living costs for students in Calgary are available; contact SAIT for details.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Please refer to the official SAIT website for the most up-to-date information.
How to apply
1. Review Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements for the Medical Laboratory Technology program. Note the specific requirements for the 2027/28 academic year.
2. Complete Entrance TestingSuccessfully complete the School of Health and Public Safety's Entrance Testing Process.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the SAIT admissions portal. Pay close attention to application deadlines.
4. Provide Required DocumentsSubmit all necessary supporting documents, including transcripts and proof of English proficiency.
5. Prepare for PracticumEnsure you meet all documentation requirements for the clinical practicum, which is a mandatory component of the program.
Accreditation
Accreditation Canada
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma program?
+
The program is a two-year, full-time diploma. It requires 88.5 credits across two years with three semesters per year.
What are the academic entry requirements for this diploma program?
+
Applicants need a High School Diploma and must meet specific course requirements. For 2027/28 onwards, applicants can meet current requirements or complete SAIT's Pre-Health Sciences program with a minimum 3.0 GPA and specific grades in ANPH 206, ANPH 207, CHEM 229, COMM 269, and MATH 269.
Is an English language proficiency test required for admission?
+
Yes, applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency. Specific score requirements are not listed but are part of the admission process.
What career opportunities are available after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Medical Laboratory Technologists and Medical Laboratory Assistants. Opportunities exist in hospitals, medical diagnostic centres, and research facilities, with a 90% graduate employment rate and an average starting salary of $66,632.
How do international students apply to the Medical Laboratory Technology Diploma?
+
International applicants must review admission requirements, complete the School of Health and Public Safety's Entrance Testing Process, submit an application through the SAIT portal, and provide all required documents, including transcripts and proof of English proficiency.