Medical Laboratory Assistant
Program Highlights
- Clinical and Administrative Practices
- Blood Collection
- Specimen Processing and Accessioning
- Basic Diagnostic Laboratory Procedures
- Electrocardiography
- Quality Control
- Infection Control
- Medical Terminology
Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA): What do MLAs do?
Our partnership with CLS for the Medical Lab Assistant program means that students have the opportunity to form a professional relationship with CLS—the largest employer for MLAs in Calgary and the surrounding areas. Our MLA students also receive these direct benefits:
- CLS interviews and selects students for the program. You will have a working relationship with CLS from the beginning.
- CLS employees help train students while they are at ABES. ABES brings in CLS employees to provide training in technical areas during the classroom portion of training. ABES’ onsite lab uses all CLS equipment and trains students to CLS’ Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) standards to help better prepare you for practicum and employment. Our students complete a 5-week practicum with CLS in either a community or hospital setting.
- The CLS Occupational Health and Safety Department screens students and offers them any vaccinations requisite for their practicum and employment. CLS will help you prepare for employment any way that they can.
Career Opportunities
Find a MLA career in the following fields and locations:
- Diagnostic Laboratory
- Hospital
Potential Salary
$44,324-$55,067*
$23.79 / Hour Median
*2021 data from ca.talent.com
5 Week Practicum Placement and Connections to CLS
Video Testimonials
What Our Students Have to Say
Trust the Process
Angelyn P.
Great School
Vicky B.
What is the Job Outlook for Medical Lab Assistants in Calgary?
Great news for Future MLAs:
There are plenty of opportunities for steady, high-paying positions available both now and in the future.
According to Alberta Labour, MLA positions will grow 3.6% through 2023. Increased demand for MLAs has also come about due to COVID-19, and many current MLAs reaching retirement age.
In other words, if you’ve been searching for a career that will allow you to work in a professional lab setting in the health care industry… or if you’re just ready to finally earn the kind of salary you deserve… becoming a MLA is a fantastic way to earn more money in a meaningful and respected career space.
Can I Qualify for Financial Aid?
Many applicants—such as those with children, those who didn’t work last year, and those who recently arrived in Canada—will qualify for free grants automatically, and even those with a high income will usually qualify for some aid.
In short: if you’re worried about the cost of the program, schedule a time to chat with an Admissions Advisor. They can help give you a better idea of how much financial aid you will qualify for.
What Makes ABES Different from Other Schools?
- As a small, privately owned school, ABES guarantees hands-on training for every student.
- Unlike other schools, all our programs offer practicum in the Calgary area—making it easier for you to stay local. (Many students get their first job offer while they’re still on practicum)
- Finally, we stand out for our extensive connections in the medical community. Thanks to our relationships with local healthcare facilities and other prominent employers, our graduates have an easy road to employment.