What is Medical Laboratory Science?
Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) is a vital healthcare course that trains students to analyze bodily samples such as blood, urine, and tissues to diagnose diseases. This program equips students with skills in operating lab equipment, conducting medical tests, and interpreting results to aid patient treatment.
Graduates of Medical Laboratory Science work as:
- Medical Laboratory Scientists
- Research Specialists
- Quality Control Officers
- Public Health Analysts
This course is ideal for students with strong analytical skills and an interest in medical diagnostics.
Why Study Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria?
- Accredited Programs – Nigerian universities offering MLS are approved by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN).
- High Demand for Professionals – Graduates can work in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and research centers.
- Affordable Tuition – Compared to foreign institutions, Nigerian universities offer quality education at lower costs.
- Local Disease Focus – Training is tailored to address Nigeria’s prevalent health challenges.
List of Universities Offering Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria (2025/2026)
Here’s a comprehensive list of Nigerian universities offering Medical Laboratory Science/Technology for the 2025/2026 academic session:
| University | Location | Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Lagos | Federal |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Benin City, Edo | Federal |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Ibadan, Oyo | Federal |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | Awka, Anambra | Federal |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Nsukka, Enugu | Federal |
| Bayero University Kano (BUK) | Kano | Federal |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | Calabar, Cross River | Federal |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Jos, Plateau | Federal |
| Usman Dan Fodio University (UDUS) | Sokoto | Federal |
| University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | Maiduguri, Borno | Federal |
| Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) | Akungba-Akoko, Ondo | State |
| Ebonyi State University (EBSU) | Abakaliki, Ebonyi | State |
| Imo State University (IMSU) | Owerri, Imo | State |
| Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH) | Ogbomosho, Oyo | State |
| Niger Delta University (NDU) | Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa | State |
| Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti | Private |
| Babcock University | Ilishan-Remo, Ogun | Private |
| Igbinedion University | Okada, Edo | Private |
| Madonna University | Elele, Rivers | Private |
Universities Offering Science Laboratory Technology
Some institutions also offer Science Laboratory Technology (SLT), a related program focusing on general lab techniques in fields like microbiology and chemistry.
| University | Location |
|---|---|
| Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) | Owerri, Imo |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | Port Harcourt, Rivers |
| Ekiti State University (EKSU) | Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti |
Admission Requirements for Medical Laboratory Science
To study MLS in Nigeria, candidates must meet the following:
- O’Level Credits: Minimum of 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB).
- JAMB Subject Combination: English, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.
- Post-UTME Screening: Must pass the university’s cut-off mark (check JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Medical Laboratory Science).
Career Opportunities in Medical Laboratory Science
Graduates can pursue careers in:
- Diagnostic Laboratories – Conducting medical tests.
- Research Institutions – Developing vaccines and treatments.
- Public Health Organizations – Disease control and prevention.
- Pharmaceutical Companies – Quality assurance and drug testing.
How to Choose the Best University for Medical Laboratory Science
- Accreditation – Ensure the program is MLSCN-approved.
- Facilities – Look for schools with modern laboratories.
- Reputation – Check the university’s ranking in healthcare courses.
- Location & Cost – Consider affordability and proximity.
For more guidance, explore related courses like Nursing, Physiology, or Public Health Technology.
Need help with JAMB preparation? Check our guide on How to Prepare for JAMB to boost your success chances!
Would you like recommendations on scholarships for Medical Laboratory Science students? Let us know in the comments!
