MS in Biomedical Laboratory Management (BLM)

You have been employed as a technologist or in a similar bench role in a biomedical laboratory for at least a year, and are ambitious to use your scientific knowledge to become a leader and decision maker in the lab. You are interested in the financial, personnel and technical aspects of scientific/medical laboratory function as they contribute to human health and scientific progress.

To accept a management position in a biomedical laboratory (research, diagnostic, biotech/pharmaceutical, public health) requires advanced scientific knowledge as well as basic business skills. Too often, such roles in medical and scientific laboratories are assigned based on the technical expertise of the staff member. While this is critical, it is not adequate to allow a smooth and confident transition to leadership. The ability to analyze financial, scientific and human resources is critical for individuals who will be successful leaders. It is with these goals that the curriculum was designed, and will be refined as we learn from our students and employers. Graduates are prepared to accept positions of management within labs, as well as the larger institutions in which they function (hospitals, government agencies, private industries, etc.).

For licensed clinical technologists: Please note that completing the BLM does not provide a license or other formal credential to become a clinical laboratory supervisor or other management role. If this is an area of interest, be sure to study the Public Health Law that defines licensure in these positions and discuss your options with your employer before applying for the BLM.

• Baccalaureate (BS/BA) in clinical lab science, biology, chemistry or a related discipline, with GPA of at least 3.0/4.0
• Course (or equivalent experience) in Molecular Biology (pre- or co-requisite)
• Minimum 1 year of bench experience employed in a biomedical laboratory
• Two references, one from current employer/supervisor. Employer letter may indicate willingness to provide guidance to the candidate for the management practicum
• Statement of purpose (500 words) including the aspects of your background that bring you to apply, and your goals in laboratory management

*The GRE is not required for the MS in BLM.

In any given semester, students take classes at HC, SPS or both. Courses are in traditional format, with extensive use of Blackboard educational software. Emphasis is on real world problems and case studies, including group projects that reflect the diverse expertise of your classmates. Your basic and molecular science background, as well as your experience in the workplace will influence class content. Classes are scheduled on weekday evenings.

A. REQUIRED HUNTER COLLEGE COURSES

• MLS 700. Concepts of Disease and Diagnostic Strategies.
  • Several model disease entities (e.g. diabetes, selected infectious diseases and cancers) will be analyzed to design strategies for effective laboratory studies in screening, diagnosis, staging, treatment and long term follow-up for positive patient outcomes and cost effectiveness.
• MLS 701. Emerging Laboratory Technologies.
  • New technologies in biomedical science will be analyzed for scientific innovation, cost effectiveness and impact on patient and research outcomes.
  • Applications to a group of model disease states will form the basis of project learning. Expert visiting faculty enhance learning.
• MLS 770.25 Topics: Biohazards and Emergency Response.
  • Biology of microorganisms and toxins most frequently associated with perpetrated attacks; including technology for detection and control for first responders, lab practitioners, emergency communication and prevention.
  • Included are group projects that simulate bioterrorism events and responses. Government regulation, chain of evidence and related topics are also covered.
• MLS 710. Management Practicum.
  • Students successfully completing all (or most) courses in the MS will design and implement a specific management project, most often in the laboratory in which they work.
  • In depth peer and instructor review of written and presented versions will culminate in final blueprint for institutional change.
  • Supervision will be shared by on-site director and course faculty.
  • Students not currently affiliated with an appropriate workplace will be assisted to find a suitable site for the capstone project.
• MLS 720.Risk Management for the Biomedical Laboratory.
  • The biomedical lab must manage risk from diverse origins, including lab/medical hazards, regulation, and fiscal sources, similar to any business entity.
  • This case-based course explores each of these with model interventions.
  • Government and other regulatory systems are studied.

B. REQUIRED SPS COURSES

• MGT 681. Graduate Financial Management.
  • Students learn to define, comprehend, and apply a market-driven theory for ethically based, strategic financial decisions. Important issues include the return and risk of the activity to invest, the size of the investment, and the sources for financing the investment. Each decision is part of the overall financial strategy that adds value to the shareholder. Topics include: financial markets, financial reporting, the cost of capital, portfolio analysis, capital structure, dividend policy, options, cash management, and international monetary issues.
• BUS 600. Organization Behavior and Leadership.
  • This course is designed to introduce students to the major concepts, models, theories, and research in the field of organizational behavior and leadership. We will cover relevant theories and concepts from psychology, sociology, anthropology, and social psychology. Although the course is analytical and conceptual in nature, the primary focus is on applying behavioral science knowledge to the practice of management and leadership. The course focuses on individual and small-group processes, ethics, managing group and inter-group processes, creating meaningful change, and improving organizational effectiveness.
• MGT 680. Human Resource Management-Graduate.
  • This subject adopts a "macro" or "strategic" approach to Human Resource Management through a critical analysis of recent literature on the role of Human Resource Management in organizations and through consideration of the application of this literature to work organizations.
  • Various models of strategic Human Resource Management and the strategic relationships between Human Resource Management and programs of management and organizational change are considered.

As working professionals, we understand that most students will pursue the degree on a part-time basis. Typically 2-3 years has proven adequate to complete the curriculum, including the practicum. Several of the first graduates (June 2014) have found opportunities for advancement.

The full curriculum is 30 graduate credits. Financial aid is available to CUNY students matriculated in Master’s curricula. As working professionals, it is important to be aware of tuition benefits associated with your employment, union contracts and other sources. The faculty recognizes that some of our students will have completed similar classes in the past. We will carefully examine student records on an individual basis to grant equivalent credit wherever possible to expedite the completion of the degree, and limit cost. 

Students may enter the BLM in the Fall or Spring semester. You may begin with HC and/or SPS classes. Applications are submitted online to Graduate Admissions. See the site for deadlines and detailed requirements. Non-degree status may be considered for one semester for students who meet entry requirements.

Applications are currently being accepted for Spring 2025 with a deadline of November 1st, 2024 (see site for some exceptions).