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Program Index Health & Human Services Medical Laboratory Assistant

Health & Human Services

Program Index Health & Human Services Medical Laboratory Assistant

Health & Human Services

Certificates

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Fall 2026
Yorkton
View Intake

Start a rewarding career in health care today!

Medical laboratory assistants work in a laboratory setting directly with other health care providers and patients. Job duties include collecting health information and medical specimens from patients, entering clerical data, processing specimens, and assisting with basic laboratory activities. It’s a job that requires attention to detail, good communication and people skills and the ability to work in a high paced, professional team environment. There is currently a high demand at hospitals, health clinics, medical offices, research and pharmaceutical labs, veterinary clinics, chiropractic, and physiotherapy offices and more, for medical lab assistants.

The Medical Laboratory Assistant program is a Saskatchewan Polytechnic certificate program offered at Suncrest College. Course delivery is a combination of in-class/in-lab, remote/online, and clinical placement. Labs and clinical experience is a big part of the program, which provide students the opportunity to experience hands-on training in:

  • anatomy and physiology
  • basic lab procedures
  • histology and cytology
  • infection control and safety
  • microbiology   
  • specimen collection and handling

This program is fast-paced and physical, which may involve long period of standing when doing laboratory activities, simulations and during clinical placements. Clinicals will be for a total of 8 weeks supervised training, which will provide the students experience in specific areas: histology, specimen management, phlebotomy, and microbiology. Clinical placements will be at various locations across the province. 

After successfully completing this program, you will receive a Saskatchewan Polytechnic Medical Laboratory Assistant certificate.

The Government of Saskatchewan provides incentives and bursaries for various health care programs, please see Incentives for Health Care Professionals | Health Human Resources | Government of Saskatchewan for more details.

Admission Requirements

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for most of Suncrest college's programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission the more likely it is you will secure a seat in the program of your choice.  Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

If you have admissions questions email [email protected]. 

Admission Requirement for Medical Lab Assistant

  • Grade 12 with a minimum grade of 70% in each of:

    • English Language Arts A30
    • English Language Arts B30
    • Foundations of Math 20 or Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*
    • Health Science 20 or Biology 30*
    • Physical Science 20 or Chemistry 30*

    *Previous Saskatchewan biology, chemistry, and mathematics requirements also accepted:

    • Biology 20
    • Chemistry 20

    • Math 20 or any 30-level math

       

  • 25 words per minute keyboarding speed with 90% accuracy (5-minute testing report to be submitted with transcripts);
    • Testing is available through Saskatchewan Polytechnic Testing Services. A completed Keyboarding Test Results Form must be submitted to Registration Services.
  • English Language Proficiency

 

Alternative admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.

ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 256 Reading
  • 250 Writing
  • 4 Writeplacer

Click on the tab below, to learn more on the additional requirements upon acceptance to the program.

Tablet AND Laptop 

An iPad or tablet will be required for use during lab and in clinical practicum experience. A laptop or desktop computer is ideal for course work. Associated expenses for these items are the students responsibility.

Mask Fit - 2 sizes

Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of current N95 respirator mask fit testing prior to start of clinical practicum as directed by the program. Mask Testing is recommended to be updated annually, however, it is mandatory to be updated every 2 years. If expiry date occurs within the program delivery date, student must re-submit proof of testing that has a validity covering the duration of the program. 

WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) Certification

Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of WHMIS certification upon admission to the program. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current.

Transferring Lifting Repositioning (TLR®) Object Moving certification or Safe Moving and Repositioning Techniques (SMART®) certification

Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of TLR® - Object Moving Certification or SMART® certification upon admission to the program. TLR® or SMART® certification is valid for 3 years from the date of completion. Recertification may be required during your studies.

Criminal Record Check

Criminal record checks are required and must include a vulnerable sector check. It is at the discretion of the health region whether a student with a criminal record will be allowed to participate in clinical components. All costs associated with the criminal record check are the responsibility of the student. Criminal record checks must be dated July 1 or later of the current program year.

Immunization Record

Current immunization information must be submitted prior to the clinical portion of the program starting. You may require further immunization. All costs associated with vaccines are the responsibility of the student.

1 Intake Option Available

Fall 2026 Full-Time
Yorkton

Yorkton

Full-Time
Fall 2026
Start Date August 26, 2026
End Date April 23, 2027
Length 32 Weeks
Program Capacity 6
Domestic Tuition $11,200.00
International Tuition $22,000.00

Additional Fees

*Tuition (Domestic)

              (International)

$11,200.00

$22,000.00  

*Materials/Textbooks
 		$625.00
*Student Fees
 		$450.00
Health & Dental Plan$252.00

 *Amount indicated above are approximates only, subject to change once finalized.		 

Courses

Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 1
Semester 2

You will be introduced to the study of the human body and how it functions efficiently. You will study various body systems that are of critical importance for the promotion and maintenance of health.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning Print Distance Group Print Distance Individual Web Assisted Delivery Group

Your studies will focus on the principles of electrocardiography (ECG). The course content includes step by step recording techniques, recognizing artifacts and identifying remedies. It will also include learning to recognize life threatening heart rates and myocardial infarctions.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Corequisite(s): MTER 180(concurrent)

Equivalent Course(s)

ECRD180

Potential Learning Methods

Prior Learning Lecture/Lab

You will participate in an introduction to health care and health care delivery systems. Co-operative working relationships, employability skills, conflict management, critical thinking skills, communication, wellness, and stress management techniques will be emphasised throughout the course.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning Print Distance Group Print Distance Individual Web Assisted Delivery Group

You will study the transmission of microorganisms, blood-borne pathogens (i.e. hepatitis virus and HIV), routine practices, isolation procedures, immunization for medical workers, sterilization and disinfection, biohazard waste, safety and WHMIS.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Equivalent Course(s)

INFC180CE

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Lecture/Lab Print Distance Group Print Distance Individual

You will learn the theory and skills required to prepare, culture, incubate, and stain clinical microbiology specimens.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Corequisite(s)

APHY103 INFC180 MTER180 PROC180

Equivalent Course(s)

MICR190

Potential Learning Methods

Prior Learning Lecture/Lab Web Assisted Delivery Group

You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes and combining forms from which medical terms are derived. You will also learn to use medical abbreviations.

  • Credit Units: 1
  • Course Hours: 10.0
  • Equivalent Course(s): MED 161, MTER 180CE
  • Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

Credit Units: 1.00

Course Hours: 15.00

You will receive the theory and practice required to perform basic procedures in a laboratory. The course content includes laboratory glassware, use of balances, centrifuges, thermal equipment, pH meters, microscopes and solution preparation with related calculations.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

INFC180

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Lecture/Lab

You will receive the theory and practice required to perform basic procedures in the clinical laboratory areas of hematology and chemistry. You will demonstrate knowledge of quality management and the importance of critical thinking strategies. You will perform techniques required for erythrocyte sedimentation rate, preparing and staining peripheral smears, macroscopic urine testing, osmometry, 24-hour urine preparation, and point-of-care testing.
 

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

MTER180

Corequisite(s)

PROC180 PROC185

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Lecture/Lab

You will be introduced to the structure and function of the main medical laboratories in this course. Sample collection, handling, storage, and distribution will be covered, with an emphasis on the maintenance of specimen integrity.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Corequisite(s)

INFC180 MTER180

Equivalent Course(s)

PROC181

Potential Learning Methods

Prior Learning Lecture/Lab Web Assisted Delivery Group

In this course you will be introduced to theories of stress and holistic concepts of wellness honouring different cultural perspectives. You will use the Medicine Wheel as a tool to examine the influence of stress on physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Finally, you will create a personal stress management plan with a goal of respecting the four elements of health.

Credit Units: 1.00

Course Hours: 15.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Web Assisted Delivery Group

You will receive the theory and practice required to assist with the preparation of clinical specimens for microscopic examination. The course content includes specimen receiving and processing, block preparation and basic staining.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Prerequisite(s)

MTER180

Corequisite(s)

APHY189 PROC180 PROC181

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Lecture/Lab

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to define Interprofessional Education (IPE) and practice. You will be able to describe the benefits, barriers, and enablers to IPE. You will be able to explain how IPE positively affects collaborative patient-centered care. You will participate in a variety of IPE activities that will highlight professional values and ethics, as a member of an inter-professional team.

Credit Units: 1.00

Course Hours: 15.00

Prerequisite(s)

ETHC101

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning

You will gain the theory and practice to perform specialized clinical laboratory procedures, including microscopic urinalysis and molecular diagnostic sample preparation. You will build on previously learned laboratory theory and skills to ensure valid results.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Prerequisite(s): APHY 103, PROC 180, PROC 183

Potential Learning Methods

Lecture/Lab

You will participate in a 30 hour simulation to help prepare you for your clinical experience. The course will focus on skill development in laboratory and ECG. The experience will assist you to correlate your theory to real patient situations. You will demonstrate your ability to prioritize, organize, and implement procedures. Your ability to apply professional practice will be stressed. You will discuss workplace documents and effective job search strategies.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

ECRD180 ETHC101 HSTC188
MICR190 or PROC185

Corequisite(s)

HSTC188

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lab/Practical

You will be introduced to the sociological imagination. You will discuss the relationship between culture, colonization, and land. The sociology of science and technology will be explained. You will learn to recognize forms of oppression, diversity, and inclusion. Next you will explore the need for reconciliation and decolonization. Finally, you will develop a personal awareness plan and social action plan.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Potential Learning Methods

Online Prior Learning Web Assisted Delivery Group

You will acquire the knowledge and skills to transport, receive, store and issue blood components and products.

Credit Units: 1.00

Course Hours: 15.00

Potential Learning Methods

Lecture/Theory Prior Learning

You will develop a study plan using learning activities and assignments to maintain and improve personal competence. A systematic review of curriculum content, the national competency profile and comprehensive practice exam questions will be used to identify specific areas for improvement. You will develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills through discussion with a health care problem base scenario.

Credit Units: 1.00

Course Hours: 15.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s): CLIN 112(concurrent), HSTC 188(concurrent), PROC 101(concurrent)

Potential Learning Methods

Prior Learning Lecture/Lab

You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing this experience, you will be prepared to perform several specific procedures in the clinical laboratory.

Credit Units: 8.00

Course Hours: 120.00

Corequisite(s)

SIMU100

Potential Learning Methods

Prior Learning Web Assisted Delivery Group Clinical/Practicum

You will participate in a supervised clinical experience. Upon successfully completing the experience, you will be able to perform specimen procurement, data entry, receive and distribute specimens, plus prepare specimens for analysis.

Credit Units: 5.00

Course Hours: 75.00

Corequisite(s): PROC 185(concurrent), ETHC 101(concurrent)

Equivalent Course(s)

CLIN113

Potential Learning Methods

Prior Learning Lab/Practical

Training for the Next Generation of Healthcare Workers

Health & Human Services

Our Health and Human Services area brings a full gamut of health programming to an every growing and demanding sector in our province. The portfolio of training along with expert and engaged instructors provide training that is second to none.

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Saskatchewan Polytechnic

College partners with credit granting institutions like Saskatchewan Polytechnic. These partnerships allow us to offer a greater number of recognized courses closer to where you are.

About

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves students through applied learning opportunities on Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 Territories and the homeland of the Métis. Learning takes place at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

COLLEGE

WHY?

Students who attend Suncrest College can expect smaller class sizes and an easier transition. At Suncrest College students typically receive more one-on-one time with instructors. Our staff will know your name not just your student number.

10

Percent

Higher Averages When Compared to Larger Class Sizes

#

More

You are more than just a number, we know you by name

$

Spend Less

Live where you learn, spend less on the extras

Career Options

Medical lab assistants are in high demand at:

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.


Get credit for what you know

Do you have prior education, work experience and/or job training that relates to your program area? If so, you could be eligible for credit that reduces your study time and cost. Credit can also be applied from your Sask Polytech program to another institution.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.

Frequently Asked

When you complete the Business, Office Administration, or Continuing Care Certificate at College your certificate will be issued by Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

You can apply anytime for SaskPolytech certificate programs at "College". However, please note that applicants are accepted on a first come/first qualified basis. Original transcripts are required for acceptance into a program. Applications can be sent without the original but will not be officially considered until all entrance requirements are met (original transcript included).

Yes, most of the programs are available on a class by class basis (for domestic students only). If you are interested in taking a program but can only do a few classes per semester we can create a schedule that will suit your needs. Some classes do have a prerequisite requirement and need to be taken in a certain order. We can help guide you through the process!

Students can complete the online application form and pay the $140.00 processing fee. Applications must include secondary and post-secondary transcripts and documents. English proficiency results must also be attached.

All programs require an IELTS minimum 6.5 with no bands less than 5.5.

Students will cover several courses in each semester and are responsible for assignments and studying. This will definitely require homework outside of class time.

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