Students interested in laboratory medicine will soon have more opportunities to study, train and launch their careers closer to home thanks to new programs at Okanagan College and Selkirk College.
New programs mark important milestone in future of laboratory medicine
Okanagan College recently announced new Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) programs, with classes beginning in September 2027. Selkirk College will also welcome its first Medical Laboratory Assistant cohort during the 2027/28 academic year. Together, the programs create access to laboratory education in the Interior and create new pathways into rewarding careers in health care.
For Interior Health (IH), the announcements mark an important milestone in building the future of laboratory medicine.
"These new programs are an exciting step forward for laboratory medicine in our region," says Joanne Isber, program director, laboratory services at IH. "Expanding access to laboratory education means more students can discover this profession, build their skills close to home and make a meaningful impact in the communities where they choose to live and work."
Medical laboratory professionals play a vital role in patient care, providing the testing and analysis that helps clinicians diagnose, monitor and treat illness. As demand for health-care services continues to grow, creating more opportunities for students to enter the profession will help strengthen laboratory services for years to come.
A strong future begins with education and partnership
IH laboratory leaders worked closely with both colleges as the programs were developed and will continue partnering with educators to help ensure students graduate with the practical knowledge and skills needed for successful careers in laboratory medicine.
Beyond supporting these initiatives, IH is also expanding outreach to high schools and post-secondary institutions to introduce more students to laboratory medicine and the rewarding career opportunities available throughout the organization.
"Building a strong future for laboratory medicine starts with education and partnership," says Joanne. "These programs are an important investment in the future of our profession, and we're proud to work alongside our post-secondary partners to help prepare the next generation of laboratory professionals."
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