The MLS major consists of two distinct academic phases: the Pre-Professional Phase and the Professional Phase. During the Pre-Professional Phase, the first two years of the four-year major, students complete UIS general education requirements and MLS prerequisites. During the Professional Phase, the final two years of the four-year major, students complete the MLS core courses and obtain clinical experience during practicum courses. The Professional Phase is the NAACLS-accredited Medical Laboratory Science program. All students must complete a secondary admissions process and be accepted by the MLS Program before they may begin the Professional Phase.<br><br>The MLS Program admits students to the Professional Phase in fall semesters only. To be eligible for admission to the MLS Professional Phase, students must:<br><br>Successfully complete all Pre-Professional Phase courses (C- or higher) prior to entering the Professional Phase<br>Earn a minimum 2.5 GPA in MLS prerequisite courses<br>Apply to and be accepted by UIS<br>Apply to and be accepted by the MLS Program<br><br>Students can formalize their preparation for medical or professional school by earning the MLS Pre-Medical Concentration. Students are not required to complete the Pre-Medical Concentration in order to apply to medical school or other professional school. The Pre-Medical Concentration courses must be completed in addition to all required MLS Pre-Professional and Professional Phase courses.