About the Programs

Both the University of Montana-Missoula (UM) and Montana State University-Bozeman (MSU) offer B.S. degree programs in Medical Laboratory Science. The two programs are affiliated and work closely to establish a network of clinical affiliates and sites for students to conduct clinical internships.

Programs

Both UM and MSU offer 3+1 or 4+1 curriculum options. Either course of study results in a B.S. degree in Medical Laboratory Science (UM) or Microbiology with an emphasis in Medical Laboratory Science (MSU).

4+1 versus 3+1 curricula

A 4+1 curriculum completes the B.S. degree BEFORE the clinical internship. This option has the advantage of: a) providing the student with an extra year of liberal arts training in college, b) completion of a degree that is slightly more flexible, i.e., it allows a student to forego a clinical internship and seek another career / education path.

The 3+1 curriculum is designed to expedite the training of a student who is certain of their career path. This option has the advantage of: a) trimming a year off of college by using the internship in place of their senior year, b) potential tuition savings, c) proving a more applied training during the senior year.

Each program has its advantages and disadvantages and must be chosen by the student after careful consideration. The program directors at UM and MSU (link to program director contact page) are happy to discuss these options with you.

Montana University System Medical Laboratory Sciences Program Directors

Kay Rasmussen, EdD, MLS (ASCP)

Director & Instructor, Montana Medical Laboratory Science Training Program
Department of Microbiology & Immunology
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT 59717
Tel. no.: 406-994-5664
e-mail: k.rasmussen@montana.edu

Michael F. Minnick, PhD

Professor of Microbiology
Division of Biological Sciences
University of Montana
Missoula, MT 59812-4824
Tel. no.: 406-243-5972
e-mail: mike.minnick@mso.umt.edu

Rhonda Dillman, PhD

Professor of Chemistry
Biological and Physcial Sciences
Montana State University - Billings
SCI Room 245
Tel. No.: 406-657-2025
email: rdillman@msubillings.edu