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Molly
Student
Nanuet, New York
1
Question
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I am thinking of majoring in medical laboratory sciences as a pre-dental major, so that I can get a job after college, and save money before dental school. Is this a good idea? #Spring 25?
12th grade, going to 4 year college in Fall 2025
#Spring25
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Nahid Ferdous
9
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Austin, Texas
Updated
Nahid’s Answer
Hi Molly!
This isn't a bad idea for an education path, but whether or not it's a good idea will largely depend on the coursework structure for whichever college you decide to attend. The basics for these two education paths will pretty much be the same, and you'll be able to knock out a lot of the pre-requisites for both fields at the same time.
Upper division coursework is where you'll start seeing variations. Some institutions will require more labs for MLS compared to pre-dental. Pre-dental paths will have some labs as well, but their upper division labs will generally focus more on anatomical work compared to MLS labs. Some MLS programs also include or require clinical internships/externships in the last year or so of the program, so you would need to factor this into your schedule when determining if you can balance the required classes for pre-dental. Keep in mind that you will need to pass the MLS certification exam if you want to officially be a medical lab scientist, so an internship is required to certification eligibility.
Overall, your plan sounds pretty great! You'll just need to research coursework for these paths at your institution of choice. Sometimes reaching out to a college advisor or outreach coordinator can be a great way to learn more and get in touch with department staff. It's great that you're planning things out this far ahead, and I wish you the best of luck!
Research required coursework/graduation plans for MLS and pre-dental, and compare where there are overlaps and differences
Reach out to college advisors, outreach coordinators, and others for additional information
This isn't a bad idea for an education path, but whether or not it's a good idea will largely depend on the coursework structure for whichever college you decide to attend. The basics for these two education paths will pretty much be the same, and you'll be able to knock out a lot of the pre-requisites for both fields at the same time.
Upper division coursework is where you'll start seeing variations. Some institutions will require more labs for MLS compared to pre-dental. Pre-dental paths will have some labs as well, but their upper division labs will generally focus more on anatomical work compared to MLS labs. Some MLS programs also include or require clinical internships/externships in the last year or so of the program, so you would need to factor this into your schedule when determining if you can balance the required classes for pre-dental. Keep in mind that you will need to pass the MLS certification exam if you want to officially be a medical lab scientist, so an internship is required to certification eligibility.
Overall, your plan sounds pretty great! You'll just need to research coursework for these paths at your institution of choice. Sometimes reaching out to a college advisor or outreach coordinator can be a great way to learn more and get in touch with department staff. It's great that you're planning things out this far ahead, and I wish you the best of luck!
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