Program Background

The SDA College Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (Year 2) builds upon the foundational Laboratory Assistant Certificate. This advanced year deepens scientific knowledge, enhances laboratory technical proficiency, and prepares learners for supervisory roles in medical diagnostics, quality control, and research. The program supports national health objectives and aligns with the Ministry of Higher Education’s TVET Policy, emphasizing professionalism and youth employability.

Program Objectives

• Advance students’ technical and analytical skills in major laboratory disciplines.
• Develop competence in complex diagnostic techniques and instrument operation.
• Promote critical thinking and problem-solving in laboratory analysis.
• Strengthen commitment to biosafety, ethics, and quality management.
• Prepare graduates for supervisory and leadership roles in laboratory practice.
• Encourage research and continuous professional development.

Semester 4 – Modules & Timetable

Advanced Hematology & Transfusion Science (Weeks 1–3)

Objective: Strengthen diagnostic and transfusion science competence.

• Apply advanced analytical principles in hematology.
• Perform quality control and interpret complex results.
• Operate and maintain specialized instruments safely.

Clinical Biochemistry II (Weeks 4–6)

• Perform advanced biochemical analyses and validations.
• Use specialized analyzers with precision.
• Maintain laboratory data quality and integrity.

Advanced Microbiology & Parasitology II (Weeks 7–9)

• Isolate and identify microorganisms and parasites using advanced methods.
• Apply antibiotic sensitivity testing and biosafety controls.
• Interpret laboratory findings for clinical relevance.

Histopathology & Cytology II (Weeks 10–12)

• Perform tissue processing, staining, and cytological preparations.
• Interpret microscopic findings and correlate with diagnoses.

Practical Rotation Block (Weeks 13–18)

• Rotation: Hospital or Diagnostic Laboratory
• Focus Areas: Hematology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Histopathology
• Assessment: Attendance (10%), Supervisor Evaluation (20%), Logbook (20%), Practical Exam (50%)

Semester 5 – Modules & Timetable

Molecular Diagnostics & Emerging Techniques (Weeks 1–3)

Objective: Build advanced analytical and research capabilities in molecular diagnostics.

• Demonstrate understanding of molecular and epidemiological methods.
• Conduct advanced laboratory work ethically.
• Present and interpret molecular data accurately.

Advanced Laboratory Management & Quality Systems (Weeks 4–6)

• Manage resources, personnel, and workflow in laboratory environments.
• Implement and audit quality management systems.
• Prepare operational reports and manage laboratory accreditation standards.

Public Health Laboratory Practice & Epidemiology (Weeks 7–9)

• Apply laboratory methods for surveillance and outbreak response.
• Collaborate with health authorities in disease control activities.
• Document and report data accurately.

Research Project & Professional Practice (Weeks 10–12)

• Design and conduct small-scale research projects.
• Analyze and present findings following ethical standards.
• Prepare a professional portfolio and oral presentation.

Comprehensive Clinical Internship (Weeks 13–18)

• Placement: Hospital, Research, or Public Health Laboratory
• Rotations: Molecular Diagnostics, Quality Assurance, Epidemiology
• Assessment: Supervisor Evaluation (30%), Logbook (20%), Final Practical Exam (50%)

Program Completion

Students who successfully complete all modules and clinical rotations are awarded the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology. Graduates are qualified for mid-level diagnostic, supervisory, or research positions and may progress to an HND or Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related fields.