Medical Laboratory

Technician
Student Handbook

The Hibbing Community College Medical Laboratory Technician Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical
Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

Minnesota North p. 218-262-7254

Hibbing Campus 1-800-224-6724 [email protected]
1515 E. 25th St. f. 218-262-6717
Hibbing, MN 55746

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 1

 Table of Contents
I. Welcome!! ....................................................................................................................4
Professional Description
Code of Ethics
Program Description
Laboratory Technician Career
Mission Statement
MLT Program Goals
MLT Program Competencies
Keys to Success
Technical Standards

II. Accreditation Standards.............................................................................................7

III. Program Requirements………………………………………………………………8

Background Study
Immunizations
Drug Screens

IV. Program Description and Course Requirements .................................................9

Program Description
Admission Criteria
Personal Requirements
Code of Conduct
Program Progression
Course Sequence and Grades
Academic Evaluation
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy
Affective Evaluations
Promptness and Attendance
Effective Learning
Academic Integrity
Clinical Placement Policy
Table of Clinical Affiliate Sites
Expectations of Students Attending Clinical Practicums Arranged Through HCC
Internship Behavior Expectations
Attendance at Clinical Internships
Service Work Policy
Inappropriate Behavior Policy
Expectations of Preceptors Responsible for Teaching HCC Students
State Licensure

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 2

V. Student Information………………………………………………………………….18
Academic Grievances
Student Academic Petitions
Claims by a Student Alleging Improper, Unfair, Arbitrary or Discriminatory Treatment
Withdrawal from the Program
Student Health
Communication
MLT Teach-out Policy
MLT Temporary Emergency Policy

VI. Tuition and Fees………...…………………………………………………………19

Appendix A: On Campus Program Plan……………………………………………....21

Appendix B: Online Program Plan………………......................................................22
Appendix C: Statement of Support.............................................................................23
Appendix D: Clinical Facility Fact Sheet....................................................................26
Appendix E: Didactic Faculty Fact Sheet...................................................................28
Appendix F: MLT Immunization Sheet.....................................................................29
Appendix G: Hepatitis Signature Form......................................................................30
Appendix H: Student HIPAA and Safety Signature Page..........................................31
Student Signature Page...............................................................................................32

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 3

I. Welcome!!
Welcome to Minnesota North Hibbing Campus Medical Laboratory Technician Program! Being accepted in to the MLT
program comes with it many opportunities, hard work, vigilance, and character. We emphasize patient care above all else,
problem solving, critical thinking, and ethics. The role of the MLT is both rewarding and challenging. It requires professional
judgment as medicine often does not fall into absolutes. The profession requires independent thinking, interpretation, and a
drive for continuous learning. This handbook has been prepared to help you learn and understand the responsibilities and
expectations that will apply directly to you as an MLT student.

During your first semesters you can be expected to be challenged well beyond your personal expectations. Your time
commitment and commitment to learning is essential and cannot be underestimated. The expectations of the MLT faculty is
high as it is our role to prepare you to sit for your ASCP Board of Registry upon completion of the program. During your
initial phases of the program, we as faculty, encourage you to get to know your classmates. These people will be your
associates and colleagues. As a member of the class, it is your responsibility to work together. You will need to accept the
attitudes and ideas of class members that may be very different from your own. Without this harmony, the goals of the class
and the MLT program cannot be attained. It is the expectations that students will demonstrate the ability to discuss,
demonstrate, and debate in a proper, respectful manner. It is also expected that students will be good listeners. Listen with
the intent to learn.

Professional Description
The Medical Laboratory Technician is a health professional qualified by academics and skills training to provide quality service
in the field of clinical laboratory science.

Code of Ethics:
The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) is an organization representing the lab profession. This
organization has put together a Code of Ethics setting “forth principles and standards by which clinical laboratory
professionals practice their profession.” In doing so ASCLS has set guiding principles that include:
• Duty to the Patient
• Duty to Colleagues and the Profession
• Duty to Society
Please visit www.ascls.org for more information.

Program Description
Medical Laboratory Technician is a profession combining the challenges and rewards of both medicine and science. A
Medical Laboratory Technician performs laboratory testing to include visual, chemical, and microscopic examinations of
blood, body fluids, and tissues to aid in diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of disease. On campus student will complete
two years of studies to include a clinical practicum during their last semester. On line students will complete the same
program in a three-year program designed for working part-time students. Students will learn theory and principles behind the
testing performed. In addition, students learn to think critically, correlating patient results with disease states.

Laboratory Technician Career

The need for Medical Laboratory Technicians is growing faster than there are qualified people to fill these jobs. Currently,
positions are open for qualified laboratory professionals at places such as hospitals, clinics, public health facilities, business,
and industry. The employment outlook promises to continue to be strong, as there is a shortage of Medical Laboratory
Technicians nationwide. Because the Laboratory Technician Career often involves life and death scenarios and situations, it is
MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 4
imperative that students recognize the level of responsibility they carry entering the workforce. The career is challenging and
rewarding and therefore includes certain academic rigors and legal aspects to be met in order to complete the program. In
order to be successful students must be prepared to dedicate their time to build on the professional development skills. In
order to be successful in the MLT program and in the career of Medical Laboratory Technician, you must:
• Hold a valid driver’s license or have transportation to your internship site
• Have a clear criminal history*
• Have completed and documented the required immunizations (on campus students)
• Have the ability to think critically with strong problem-solving skills
• Have good time management
• Be self-motivated
• Possess proper communication skills both written and verbal
• Possess the ability to perform the essential job functions of a Medical Laboratory Technician.

Mission Statement
Minnesota North Hibbing Campus Medical Laboratory Technician program is a NAACLS accredited program
committed to improving the quality of care as an integral member of the health care team. With the collaboration of
our clinical affiliates, MLT graduates will adhere to the highest ethical and safety standards expected of health care
professionals, provide high quality, reliable patient laboratory results, and maintain exceptional levels of
confidentiality, integrity, and professionalism.

MLT Program Goals:

• To provide to students, relevant occupational learning experiences through various resources and practices, preparing
them to become Medical Laboratory Technicians with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.
• To provide and coordinate the course of study and general education opportunities, progressing in knowledge, to
support entry-level literacy, including the ability to communicate, articulate and problem solve.
• To offer a supportive learning environment by offering equal opportunities without regard to race, creed, color,
gender, sexual orientation, nation of origin, age, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, religion, or
disability.
• To maintain a high level of quality instruction, incorporating flexible, innovative, and traditional teaching techniques.
• To provide responsive and responsible student learning services, advisement and referrals, committing to the
development of competent entry-level Medical Laboratory Technicians.
• To promote, demonstrate, and foster the necessary professional attitudes and ethics required in the field of Medical
Technology.
• To support and encourage curiosity and the need for life-long learning, self-development, and critical thinking skills.
• To collaborate with businesses, industries, and higher education institutions both inside and outside of our
community, for professional opportunities.
• To commit to an on-going program of improvement and development through a system of self-evaluation, self-study,
and assessment.
• To demonstrate accountability to students, governing bodies, and the community.

MLT Program Competencies

Upon graduation from Minnesota North and initial employment, the medical laboratory technician will be able to demonstrate
workplace readiness competencies in the following areas of professional practice:
• Working collectively and collaboratively exhibiting skills in leadership, perseverance, and integrity
• Identifying, collecting, and processing patient specimens in accordance with current HIPAA laws and regulations
• Adhering to and practicing all clinical safety guidelines to include chemical, biological, and safety as it relates to patient
laboratory testing

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 5

 • Demonstrating identification and understanding of basic red cell and white cell development stages and morphologies
and relating findings to hematologically normal as well as diseased states
• Demonstrating a basic understanding of urinalysis and body fluids in chemistries and microscopic findings relating to
healthy and diseased states
• Demonstrating a basic understanding of microbiology, and mycology in identification methodologies and findings in
normal as well as disease states
• Demonstrating foundational knowledge of blood banking to include blood typing, antibody identification, transfusion
services, neonatal workups, component therapy, and administration
• Demonstration of the bodies chemistries, systems, and markers including acid/base balance, proteins, enzymes,
therapeutic drug monitoring, toxicology and instrumentation
• Persevering in becoming life-long learners, exemplifying critical thinking skills and a desire for personal engagement in
and out of the field

Keys to Success
1. Use time wisely; spend extra time in the lab, with learning groups, and with instructors asking questions and clarifying
subject matter in order to fully understand the theory or practice.
2. Strive to always learn more. Constantly asking “why?” assures investigation and promotes deeper thought processes.
3. Do not go it alone! Find at least one other person to work with in order to provide mutual benefit.
4. Learn to learn: Adapt. If the old ways are no longer sufficient, recognize and accept that early on and be willing to
change methods.
5. Practice. Practicing lab skills, reading papers out loud, critiquing the work of those around you, will make you a better
student.

Technical Standards
The following are intended to identify technical standards needed in the Medical Laboratory Technician curriculum and are
representative of the standards expected in the industry. These functions are in no way meant to discriminate, intimidate, or
otherwise exclude students from the program. They include:
• Ability to see and discern colors
• Ability to understand and follow instruction from spoken material
• The ability to follow written directions and procedures
• The ability to sit, bend, reach, push, pull, and lift up to 15 pounds
• The ability to demonstrate manual dexterity sufficient to calibrate, adjust and operate precision laboratory
instrumentation such as microscopes, automated chemistry analyzers, pipettes, and computers
• The ability to manage time effectively
• The ability to cooperate
• The ability to follow through (show initiative)
• The ability to organize
• The ability to work and make sound judgments under stress
• The ability to think critically and correlate information
• The ability to prioritize
• The ability to interact effectively and sensitively with people
• The ability to adapt to change
• The ability to be accurate
• The ability to seek help and find information
• The ability to accept responsibility, limitations, and implications of those actions

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 6

 • The ability to continuously display professional behaviors

An acceptable demonstration of these essential behaviors and/or abilities is a requirement for success in the MLT program.
Evaluation or measurement of these competencies will occur during the education and clinical segments of the program and
will be accomplished by various means including: written tests, completion of projects, clinical assessment of practical skills,
and instructor observation.

Interest and Initiative

Students are expected to demonstrate initiative and interest in learning and are expected to participate actively in a variety of
learning opportunities on and off campus. Doing so helps build the student’s professional portfolio, develops strong
references for job interviews, builds confidence and skill, and broadens the student’s knowledge base. Low levels of
motivation, poor focus, and/or inconsistent attendance are likely to result in poor learning of subject matter and difficulty
successfully completing courses, developing technical skills, finding employment in the field, and keeping a job after
graduation.
The MLT program in conjunction with the college will attempt to make reasonable accommodations required by law to enable
otherwise qualified individuals to participate in the program. If you have questions about the Essential Functions or
reasonable accommodations, please contact the Disability Coordinator at 218-262-6745 TTY 218-262-7294

II. Accreditation Standard

The Minnesota North Laboratory Technician Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical
Laboratory Science (NAACLS). The program was recently awarded a 10-year recertification to commence in 2030. Annual
reports continue to be submitted assessing the program’s outcomes and benchmarks. Accreditation is based on standards set
by NAACLS in the areas of:
1. Sponsorship
2. Assessment and Continuous Quality Improvement
3. Resources
4. Students
5. Operational Policies
6. Administrative; Maintaining Accreditation/Approval
7. MLT Program Administration
8. MLT Curriculum Requirements

The MLT program will undergo continuous self-evaluation. The purpose of which is to strive for continuous improvement in
meeting NAACLS standards and benchmarks, as well as evaluating the content and delivery of information given in the class
setting in order to meet students’ needs. The purpose of gaining accreditation is to demonstrate that the training program
meets or exceeds the requirements of the Standards set by NAACLS. As a student and graduate of a training program,
accreditation is important in that first, it ensures that students are receiving training and skills that reflect the national standard.
Second, employers will know that the education and training received meets the Standard’s criteria. Finally, accredited
programs must constantly strive to maintain up-to-date information, delivery, and practices. Because of this continuous
evaluation process, students can be sure that they are learning the most current information available relating to the medical
laboratory.

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 7

NAACLS may be contacted at the following:
5600 N. River Rd. Ste. 720
Rosemont, IL 60018
Tel. 773-714-8880
Fax. 773-714-8886
Email: [email protected]

III. Program Requirements

Applicants accepted into the Medical Technician program must meet the minimum technical standards and technical standards
of the medical technology profession.

Background Study
State law requires that any person providing services that involve direct contact with patients and residents at a licensed health
care facility have a healthcare worker background study conducted. On campus students must have completed both a federal
and state healthcare worker background study and results received prior to internship placement. Online students are not
subject to these same standards as they are required to be employed at a healthcare facility prior to beginning the program. It
is the assumption that the employer conducts these checks as per individual state law as a contingency of the student’s
employment. Background information reviewed includes criminal conviction records maintained by the Bureau of Criminal
Apprehension which includes felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors, and records of substantiated maltreatment of
vulnerable adults and minors. An individual who is disqualified from having direct patient contact as a result of the
background study, and whose disqualification is not set aside by the Commissioner of Health, will not be permitted to
participate in a clinical internship or a clinical placement in a licensed health care facility. Failure to participate in the clinical
placement required by this program will result in the ineligibility to qualify for the degree and the student will be withdrawn
(dismissed) from the program.
Note: Each internship site may have different regulations when it comes to background studies. Not every internship site will
allow a student to intern at their facility if they have a background study that has been set aside. We cannot guarantee
placement or graduation from the MLT program for the student that has a background study set aside.

Immunizations
Due to regulations within our community, on campus MLT students are required to show proof of immunization status prior
to internship placement. Online students must show proof of immunization per employer protocol. It is not the role of HCC
to maintain full vaccination records of online students. Failure to present this information prior to an internship will result in
the internship being delayed to another semester. In this case, placement cannot be guaranteed. Vaccinations and guidelines
include:
Vaccination Requirement can be met by the following
Measles, Mumps, Rubella Documentation of immunity to measles & mumps & rubella (positive antibody titer > 1:8 or
Documentation of two (2) doses of MMR vaccine received after first birthday

Chicken Pox Medically Documented history of chickenpox disease or

(Varicella) Documented evidence of immunity to chickenpox (Positive antibody titer > 1:8 or
Documentation of two (2) doses of Varivax (Chickenpox Vaccine)

Tuberculosis Documented negative 2-step TST test (Tuberculosis skin Test or Mantoux) in the history with
annual negative TST or BAMT

Students with positive TST test must have a negative chest x-ray test within the 12 months prior
to the program visit and negative annual symptom survey.

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 8

 Diphtheria, Tetanus and Documentation of a single booster dose (given as DTaP vaccine) within the previous two years
Pertussis (recommended not required)
Hepatitis B* Documentation that a 3-shot Hepatitis B immunization series has been completed or Laboratory
evidence of immunity to Hepatitis B or Signed Declination Form
Annual Flu Shot Documentation of annual flu shot (or signed medical or religious exemption form on file)
COVID-19 Vaccine Documentation of at least 2 COVID-19 shots (or signed medical or religious exemption form on
file)
*As of Fall 2017 on-campus students will be required to present proof of hepatitis B immunization. Lack of proof, will result in a student
“hold” in registration for the upcoming semester until such documentation is provided.
Drug Screens
Although not currently in place, future on campus students may be asked to submit to a drug screen collection. This
collection, processing, paperwork, and testing would be performed through an off-site contracted company. Students refusing
or not passing the drug screen will not be allowed to complete the internship process. Because online students are required to
be working at a health institute in order to comply with program requirements, it is expected that these students are subject to
such screening per employer policy.

IV. Program Description and Course Requirements

Program Description
The MLT Program at Minnesota North College is offered both on campus in a two-year curriculum program or
online 3-year cyclical format for out of area students who wish to complete the program. Both offer a 62 credit
A.A.S. technical degree. The on-campus cohort begins each fall with new admissions. The Program Director may
choose to accept the maximum of 16 students per year based on market demand, expected attrition, adequacy of
staffing levels, and adequacy of lab space. The online program offers admissions each Fall and Summer semester
per approval, and is open to a maximum of 25 students per semester.

On campus curriculum follows a lower to higher level learning sequence beginning with necessary core knowledge followed by
more specific course work. The online curriculum is cyclical and allows students to enter at either the Fall or Summer
semester. At times, this method may be more difficult. Students do not always follow lower to higher level learning as
students may enter the program requiring them to take higher level learning courses first, depending upon semester of
entrance and cycle of courses offered. Although, this is somewhat minimized by restricting first-time students, to Fall and/or
Summer registrations only.

Internships or clinical practicums are reserved for those students completing ALL coursework with a C or better. The
clinical practicums take place during the students last semester and requires the student to work side-by-side with laboratory
professionals completing set competencies in each department or rotation. On campus students intern Monday through
Friday at times set by the clinical site. Students are to complete 16 weeks attending five days a week for eight hours each day.
Online students are allowed more flexibility in their scheduling. Online students are required to fill out a time sheet showing
the equivalent 640 hours of clinical experience demonstrating the same competencies in all areas of the lab. Online students
may have the semester extended to accommodate for the required hours. For both online and on-campus students, Clinical
Competencies are to be assessed and graded by their mentor in the particular department and are based on minimal expected
competency as developed through collaboration with the HCC MLT Advisory Committee.

Admission Criteria
Hibbing Community College is an open enrollment campus, meaning, any student with a high school diploma or GED will be
accepted. Students who do not meet the above requirements may still be accepted after meeting specified college entry
evaluation(s).
MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 9
Applications to the on campus MLT Program will be accepted every Fall semester on a first-qualified, first-admitted (based on
the date of the completed application) until the class limit has been reached.

Applications to the on-line program will be accepted every Fall and Summer semester. Online courses will accommodate 25
students while on-campus accommodations for enrollment are 16. When applicant numbers exceed program capacity,
applicants are placed on a wait-list based on date of receipt of a completed application by the Admissions Office. If an
applicant is not successful in gaining acceptance into the program, the applicant may request that his/her application be
reconsidered for the following year. There is no additional cost for this request. Working closely with an academic advisor,
students may be able to fulfill some of their general education program requirements while waiting for an opening in the
program.

Many of the courses in the MLT program require upper level reading comprehension and math. Minnesota North uses
multiple-measures course placement tools. For more explanation as to the measures used, visit: New Student Assessment-
Placement Testing

Personal Requirements
In addition to the professional behaviors, students are expected to follow general hygiene and grooming guidelines, which are
in the interest of safety and professionalism while attending laboratory sessions. The MLT program appearance guidelines
mirror requirements of the clinical sites and is supported by the MLT program advisory board. Adherence to these guidelines
is expected. Students who do not adhere to the guidelines may be asked to leave the laboratory and privately counseled on
these matters. While on campus, students may wear clothing and footwear appropriate for the college learning environment.
The student is expected to maintain proper body hygiene, free of body sprays, perfume, natural and unnatural scents (i.e.
smoke, incense, and body odor). In the laboratory, students must follow proper guidelines expected in the laboratory
workplace. These include:

• Consistent hand washing and/or use of non-soap and water hand hygiene solutions while in the lab
• Hair: hair will be clean and tied back while in the lab. No hats, scarves or other headpieces are allowed in the lab
(religious exclusions may apply). Hair will be modest and of reasonable color (i.e. no pink, blue, purple, green, etc.)
• Fingernails: nails must be clean and neatly trimmed to be no more than the height of the tips of the fingers. Artificial
nails are not allowed.
• No offensive body odor, strong perfumes, colognes or strongly scented cosmetics or hygiene products. No odors
from smoking.
• Neat, clean, modest and appropriate clothing should be worn during class, community, and lab activities. No tank
tops or low-cut shirts/blouses, no bare midriff, no low or baggy pants and no T-shirts with slogans or potentially
offensive language or pictures. Students should wear lab coats during student labs and must wear scrubs at the clinical
sites.
• No chewing gum, eating, drinking, applying cosmetics or lip balm in the lab.
• No sandals or open-toed shoes can be worn in the lab. Closed-toed shoes should not be made of mesh or have holes
through which sharps (needles) or fluids could easily pass. Solid shoes that cover the top of the foot must be worn
and be made of material that will inhibit penetration by sharp objects such as needles.
• Long pants are preferred in the lab
• Beards and mustaches must be closely trimmed and neat
• No dangling earrings or other jewelry such as oversized rings in the laboratory.

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 10

 During the clinical internships, students are expected to adhere to the dress code of the facility to which he/she is
assigned. The dress code of the facility may require the student to purchase scrubs of a certain style or color. The student
is responsible for the purchase of these items if required. If unable to purchase professional attire, please visit Amy’s
Closet on campus or other thrift shops such as Goodwill® or Savers. These often have a great selection of used scrubs
available for a minimal cost.

Code of Conduct
Students are expected to exhibit professional behavior by showing respect for faculty and fellow students, by refraining
from activities that disrupt class and/or lab, and by keeping dialogue courteous and thoughtful. Disruptive, rude, or
discourteous behaviors may include but are not limited to allowing cell phones to ring in class/lab, using a cell phone
during class/lab time for any reason (except if permission is granted), arriving late to class/lab, and excessive sidebar
conversations during class/lab especially during lectures and class discussions, or presentations, intimidation practices,
making fun of others, aggressive behavior/body language, or general disregard for others, unexcused or excessive
absences. Disrespect may include any behavior including dress that disrupts the learning environment and educational
goals of the program and college, inappropriate language, body language, gestures, expression (ex. eye rolling etc.). These
behaviors will not be tolerated. Students will be given an opportunity to work it out through discussion. If in the event
the behavior continues or escalates after both a verbal and written notice, a student may be dismissed from the program.

Program Progression
Program standards have been developed to ensure that academic and professional objectives are met. A letter grade of
“C” or better must be earned in ALL program curriculum to continue. Students who fail any courses (less than a
grade of “C”) may repeat the course only once. Students failing a course a second time are not eligible for continuation of
the program. For NAACLS benchmark record keeping, on campus students enrolled in MLT 2466 (Blood Bank) will be
considered second year equivalent. Online students will be considered “second-year equivalent” upon reaching between
29-32 credits. Students have the right to any and all petition procedures should the student feel that extenuating
circumstances need be considered.

Courses Sequence and Grades

All lecture/lab courses and the clinical experience in the MLT program must be taken in sequence, with exception of the
cyclical online program. Course sequence and/or curriculum may change based on changes in accreditation requirements,
guidance from the advisory board, mandatory changes from the state legislature, Minnesota State, or other reasons.
Students will be subject to the program plan under which they entered the program. All courses are graded A-F.

When a student starts the MTL courses, he/she will follow the program plan in place that year. NOTE: Technical
courses are only offered one time per year. Students who get “out of sequence” because of failure to satisfactorily
complete a class at that time, may have to wait an entire year to retake the course. Students must complete the program
within three (3) years from the original start date. Online students subject to the cyclical nature of the program, may have
to wait three (3) YEARS to retake a course if “out of sequence” due to failure to satisfactorily complete a class. These
students may, repeat the course at an earlier date through another NAACLS Accredited institution if desired.
1. Satisfactory progress is evaluated according to school policy (See Student Handbook).
2. All courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to continue.
3. Practical exams may have a higher required pass rate (80%-100%).
4. It is at the instructor discretion to administer a make-up exam or extra credit.
5. The evaluation process for individual courses will be stated in each course syllabus.
6. Assessment techniques employed to determine a student’s course grade include: written or online tests and quizzes,
practical lab tests, skill check-offs, worksheets, case studies, projects, and professional evaluations. The weight
assigned to each of these evaluation tools varies based on the individual course as not all courses use the same variety
and number of assessment tools. Weighted grades will be stated in each course syllabus.
7. Prerequisites for each course requiring one, must be passed successfully before the next course can be taken. The
Clinical Practicum cannot be taken if all the prior course work has not been satisfactorily completed.
8. A student who fails an MLT course twice or withdraws from a course, will be dismissed from the program. Partial
withdrawals and continuation in the program is only allowed with preauthorization from the program director and in
conjunction with a student advisor. Re-entry into the program after a withdrawal will be considered on an individual

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 11

 basis, based on a student petition, a remedial action plan, reason for dismissal, availability of clinical placement, faculty
recommendation, and any other specified items.
9. A student who has not attended for one semester or more may need to retake courses depending on how long they
have been out of the program and reason for absence.
10. A student out of the program for one (1) year or more will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Advisement/Evaluations
Course work will be assessed by written or online tests, worksheets, practical exams, laboratory exercises, reports (oral
and/or written), performance evaluations, etc. as indicated in the individual course syllabi. Students will be evaluated at
least one time per semester by their instructors and will be assessed on:
1. Academic (cognitive knowledge) evaluations will be based on course test grades, class assignments, and class
participation.
2. Technical (psychomotor) skills will be evaluated by practical skill tests and/or laboratory exercises/observation.
3. Affective behaviors will be evaluated by a rubric, performance evaluations, and observation. These behaviors shall
address honesty, cooperation, responsibility, confidence, confidentiality, respect, communication, reaction to criticism
etc.
Students are expected to meet with their advisors at a minimum, once during advisement week and by appointment at any
other time during the semester should issues arise. Student advisors will guide students through the program plan and
assess in class registration.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

All students are required by the college to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Students must earn a minimum of 67%
cumulative registered credits. At the end of any term, students not meeting the minimum academic standards will be
placed on probation. A student on probation who fails to meet the 2.0 GPA the next consecutive semester will be subject
to suspension, one semester in duration, commencing immediately. During the semester of probation, a student who
receives a 2.5 GPA and completes all attempted credits (minimum of 12 semester credits), may continue in school and
receive financial aid for the next semester but will remain on probation. Inability to complete a prerequisite course with a
C or better, will prohibit the student from takin the following course to which the prerequisite was required.

Affective Evaluations
Faculty and online mentors will provide oral and/or written feedback to students regarding professional behaviors
observed. Students not demonstrating an appropriate level of professional behavior will receive a verbal warning. A
second written warning will ensue should inappropriate behavior be continued. Should the behavior continue, the student
will be asked to meet with the Dean of Academics and/or Student Services for appropriate actions or receive counseling
from the Clinical Coordinator at the site and pending determination and severity, may ultimately be dismissed from the
program.

Promptness and Attendance:

Students are expected to be on time (as expected on the job) for academic classes, labs, and educational experiences held
either on or off campus. Being on time includes being IN THE APPROPRIATE ATTIRE (in the lab) at the start of the
lab class (worksites disinfected and work station inventory completed). Instructors MAY DEDUCT points or give no
credit for arriving late to lecture, lab, or other educational experiences.

• Students who know ahead of time they will be absent from class, lab or any educational experience must notify
the course instructor ahead of time and arrange IN ADVANCE to make-up work missed. Students should make
all attempts to schedule medical, dental, and other appointments at times other than scheduled class/lab times.

• Students who must miss a class, lab, or other educational experience unexpectedly due to illness or other reasons
should call the course instructor prior to the start of class or lab. This is expected on a job and is expected in a
professional program.

• Individual instructors have attendance policies for their courses. These policies will be stated in the course syllabi.

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 12

 • IT IS THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY to obtain and make up all work which has been missed if able.

• If absences are without good reason or become habitual, students will be referred to a college counselor and
individual contracts will be arranged with the student to deal with the situation. For more information see the
Student Handbook.

• All students are expected to be present for scheduled testing situations including quizzes, tests, final exams, and
skill checks. Any student who misses one of these testing situations must:

o Notify the instructor prior to the time of the test AND make arrangements to make up the test as quickly
as possible.
o At the instructor’s discretion, students who are absent from class and miss a test may receive a “zero”
grade on all tests, quizzes, or assignments not completed by the deadline.

• Interning students will adhere to the school calendar unless otherwise arranged through Minnesota North and the
facility Liaison or Clinical Coordinator.
• Interning students are allowed two (2) missed days. Any days missed after the allowed two, must be made up
hour for hour at the time and convenience of the facility.
• Those completing internships during the Spring Semester, in coordination with the Clinical Liaison, may opt to
intern through Spring Break. In this case, that student would complete the semester a week earlier assuming no
additional make-up days are necessary.

Effective Learning
In order to be able to adequately provide students with critical thinking, problem solving, and understanding of material, the
successful MLT student will:
• Attend all lectures and lab sessions
• Utilize time effectively. Students who are NOT actively participating in lab activities and/or who are distracting
other students may be asked to leave.
• Study class material BEFORE lecture and lab.
• Utilize open lab times to practice new skills and review previously learned skills.
• Clarify material and ask questions of the appropriate instructor as needed.
• Utilize the Learning Centers and Writing Centers at the college for study skills, writing help, and test-taking
strategies.
• Discuss program-related issues with program director/advisor at the EARLIEST sign of academic difficulty.
• Seek assistance from a college counselor at the EARLIEST sign of personal problems that may interfere with the
ability to succeed in school.

Academic Integrity
MLT students must adhere to moral and ethical principles in the classroom and at the clinical sites. This includes BUT IS
NOT LIMITED TO that of honesty regarding the following:
• Cheating on a test: Copying from another’s test paper or test questions, using unauthorized materials during a
test, knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, transporting, or soliciting in whole or in part, the contents of a
non-administered test, substituting for another student or permitting another student to substitute for oneself to
take a test, or bribing another person to obtain a non-administered test.
• Plagiarism: Meaning the appropriation, buying, receiving as a gift, or obtaining by any means, another person’s
work and the unacknowledged submission or incorporation of it in one’s own work.
• Collusion: Meaning unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work offered for credit.
• Students who violate the integrity of their responsibilities in the performance of their role as a MLT will be given
a written warning, participate in a meeting with the Dean of Students, and be subject to dismissal from the MLT
program. Return to the program will not be guaranteed.

Clinical Placement Policy

Satisfactory completion of the Clinical Practicum MLT 2590 is a program requirement and is offered to those students who
have satisfactorily completed all course work with a grade of “C” or better.
MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 13
On campus students may participate in a group interview where they will be introduced to representatives from area affiliates.
Here they will have the ability to ask questions, meet Liaisons and address concerns. Students will then complete a
questionnaire documenting first, second, and third choice placements. The final placement is up to the discretion of the
Program Director and internship representatives. Should two or more students select the same sites, the student with the
higher GPA throughout the program will be placed first, followed by the second etc. with child care and family concerns
considered.
Online students are responsible for finding an appropriate clinical site(s). Acceptance of the clinical site for online students
will be determined by the MLT Program Director upon the student’s submission of the Statement of Support, the NAACLS
Facility Fact Sheet, State of Minnesota Memorandum of Agreement, and NAACLS Faculty Fact Sheet completed for EACH
mentor or Liaison that will be working with the student.
Placement at clinical sites lacking a department such as Microbiology and/or Blood Bank will require the student to complete
the remainder of those rotations at an additional site and would require all of the same paperwork as that required for the
initial site.

The following local clinical affiliates are usually available as internship sites:

Clinical Site No. of Students Separate Micro? Separate BB?

Riverwood: Aitkin 1 No No
Fairview Range: 1-2 (may rotate) No No
Hibbing
Essentia Hibbing 1-2 (may rotate Yes (with Yes (with
Clinic w/Fairview) Fairview ) Fairview)
Essentia Virginia 1-2 Yes No
Big Fork Valley 1 No No
Cook 1 No (limited) No
Essentia Deer 1 Yes (to GI) Minimal (to GI)
River
Essentia Health 1 No (limited No
Northern Pines: micro)
Aurora
Fairview: Grand 1 (Contingent on No No
Itasca (GI) MLS students)
Ely Bloomenson, 1 No No
Ely
Rainy Lake: Int’l 1 No No
Falls
Essentia Duluth 1 (as available) No No
(FKA: St. Mary’s)
St. Luke’s Duluth 1 (as available) No No
Essentia Health
Moose Lake 1 Yes No

Additional internship sites may be arranged through agreement by both the clinical site and HCC administration through
contract review and completion of required paperwork.
If not enough clinical sites are available for the number of students ready for their Clinical Practicum, those not selected may
wait until summer semester to begin their clinical experience or, if available, may stagger start dates and/or locations as
available. Site availability may be limited at this time due to staffing shortages.
Every effort is made to place a student at a location that is most convenient for them. Family needs will be taken into
consideration during placement. This does not however, mean that students will be exempt from travel to their clinical sites.

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 14

Expectations of Students Attending Clinical Practicums Arranged Through HCC
The clinical practicum for on-campus students is 16 weeks (640 total hours) in length. The suggested times for each rotation
are merely “suggestions.” Site staffing and lab routine/workload, and site Liaison will determine how to best work the student
into the laboratory workflow while still meeting departmental competency requirements. The suggested breakdown is
suggested:
1. Immunohematology (Blood Bank): – 4 weeks
2. Microbiology: – 4 weeks
3. General Lab:
a. Hematology: 2-3 weeks
b. Coagulation: 1 week
c. Urinalysis: 1-2 weeks
d. Chemistry: 3 weeks
e. Phlebotomy/Specimen Collection/Processing: 1 week
Departments may be combined as determined by each specific site set up and workflow. Other opportunities or experiences
may be provided and are specific to each clinical site upon availability. These may include but are not limited to: EKG’s,
autopsies, histology exam, thin needle biopsies, and other Pathology services. Online students will be given a time sheet that is
to be filled out and signed by the Clinical Coordinator, Mentor, or Liaison. These students will document the equivalent time
(640 hours) of unpaid internship hours. This time sheet must be submitted with the Competencies and Clinical Site
Evaluation prior to a grade being given. It is understood that online students will take longer to complete the internship and
times will be addressed on a case by case basis with check-ins by the Program Director to make sure progress is being made.
Should the practicum not be completed by the end of the semester, a grade of “I” (incomplete) will be given and subsequently
updated upon completion and submission of required paperwork.
On campus students will begin their Clinical Practicum spring semester of their second year after ALL courses have been
completed with a “C” or better. It may be necessary to postpone one’s internship until the following semester should
placement shortages occur. Students are expected to be at their clinical sites Monday through Friday at the hours specified by
the Liaison according to rotation/department hours.
Online students may begin their Clinical Practicum the semester following completion of ALL course work with a grade of
“C” or better. Schedules for online student internships will vary according to student and staff availability. Online students
will perform the same rotational competencies as the on-campus students as set up by their Liaison. Time logged
for the practicum CANNOT be done during work hours. Students are not to be “on the clock” when performing
the Clinical Competencies, nor can they be pulled from the competency work to perform regularly performed work
duties for no pay.

NOTE: Clinical evaluations will be performed by the supervising technologist from the clinical site. Evaluations will be
reviewed and signed by the student and instructor of the rotation. The student may write on or submit an attachment to the
evaluation to document a specific disagreement with the evaluation. A grade for the rotation is based on a Likert scale of
achievement based on minimal level of expectation assigned by the MLT Advisory Board. A grade will not be given for the
Clinical Practicum until the evaluations for each rotation as well as the Clinical Site Evaluation survey is turned in to the
Program Director

Internship Behavior Expectations

Clinical affiliates have established policies regarding the use of medications, drugs, and alcohol and these must be followed
during the clinical practicum/internships. Any concern for the mental stability of a student shall be communicated to the
Program Director. Drowsiness, confusion, inability to concentrate, etc. may contribute to unsafe lab conditions for the
student and co-workers and may lead to inaccurate patient results which are unacceptable.

Attendance at Clinical Internships

Good attendance is expected during the clinical internship experiences as in the workplace. Absence should be for serious
illness or emergencies only and outside appointments should be scheduled around the clinical schedule whenever possible.
Days missed will be tracked by the clinical facility and reported to the clinical MLT Program Director. A defined protocol
should be followed for absences:
a. Students must call the laboratory at least one hour before the scheduled start time. Failure to do so will be tracked
and reported to the Program Director.
b. In cases of a serious illness or accident, a doctor’s written release with NO LIMITATIONS is needed in order to
continue the program.
MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 15
 c. Snow Days: If campus is closed due to inclement weather, students should use caution and common sense as to
whether it is safe to get to their clinical site.
d. A maximum of two (2) sick days are allowed during the clinical practicum. Additional days missed will need to be
made up. If three (3) days are missed during a one-week rotation, those three (3) days need to be made up.
e. Tardiness will also be recorded and reported to the Program Director. It is expected that students will be on the floor
and ready to work at their set start time.

Service Work Policy

During the internship, students may be occasionally asked to work hours other than normal scheduled daytime hours during
the week (i.e. afternoon shifts, weekends, etc.) The requests are usually made when the student has completed a department
rotation or at the end of the entire internship experience. The reason for working “off hours” must be educational in nature.
At no time are students to be used as a replacement for regular personnel. Agreement to work must be voluntary.
When requests are received, they must be discussed with the Program Director, Liaison, affiliate personnel, and the student.
All must agree that the student is ready to work at times when minimal supervision is available. The assignments must be
within the framework of the internship rotation in that a “mentor” must be assigned. Only techniques or procedures the
student has already attained competency in may be assigned, and evaluation procedures must be completed as
usual. Not all internship sites request “off hour” service work.

Inappropriate Behavior Procedure

Students are to conduct themselves in a positive and professional manner when interacting with clinical staff, other students,
patients, and other healthcare professionals. In no way will rude, demanding or inappropriate behavior be tolerated nor
accepted. Students are expected to provide communication that is professional and appropriate at all times. Inappropriate
behaviors include but are not limited to:
• Not meeting stated deadlines for task completion
• Not showing up on time without prior authorization or notice
• Tardiness
• Not following proper safety policies
• Not following SOP’s
• Violating HIPAA privacy policies
• Use of inappropriate language
• Other inappropriate behavior deemed “unprofessional” i.e. gossip, backtalk, name calling, arguing, comments, jokes,
sexual innuendos etc.)
• Blaming others and “things” for mistakes and/or errors
• Demanding extra time or attention by staff
• Use of aggressive body language (finger pointing, pursing of lips, slamming papers, doors, talking loudly etc.)
• Taking up instructor’s time talking excessively and repeatedly about an issue or any number of unrelated issues
• Failing to graciously take direction or criticism

*If any student’s action(s) and/or behavior cause any clinical instructor, patient, health care professional, or fellow student to
feel physically threatened, uncomfortable, or intimidated, he/she shall be removed immediately from the clinical internship
and potential re-entry will be assessed. The result may include the inability to complete the program, a failing internship grade,
and/or denial of the degree. NOTE: formal complaint must be made and both the clinical site and Program Director must
be made aware of the behavior and shall discuss the consequences up to and including dismissal from the MLT program.
Actions to be taken when inappropriate behavior is displayed:

1. The instructor will take the student aside privately after the incident and discuss the behavior. The instructor should
then notify the Program Director of the incident. The Program Director will record the time and date of the
conversation. This report will be placed in the student file.

2. Upon second incident, the instructor will take the student aside and discuss the behavior. The instructor will notify
the Program Director. The Program Director will record the time and date of the incident. This will be kept in the
student file. The student will be dismissed from the clinical site for no more than 5 working days. The instructor will
remind the student that the third incident will result in termination from the MLT program. Should the incident be
deemed severe enough, the MLT Program Director along with the Dean of Students, the student’s advisor, and the
student will assess as to whether or not the student should be allowed to complete the degree.
MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 16
 3. Upon a third incident, the instructor will take the student aside and discuss the behavior. The instructor will notify the
Clinical Coordinator (Liaison) and the Program Director and, if possible, one or both should be present during the rest of
the conversation with the student. The Program Director will record the time and date of the incident. This will be kept
in the student file. The student may be required to meet with the Dean of Students to discuss behavior and termination
from the MLT program. Should the incident be deemed severe enough, the MLT Program Director along with the Dean
of Students, the student’s advisor, and the student will assess as to whether or not the student should be allowed to
complete the degree.

Expectations of Preceptors Responsible for Teaching Minnesota North Students

Clinical affiliates have established policies regarding employee behavior, dress, professionalism and ethics. It is expected that
employees will model professional behavior at all times by following all behavior expectations of the clinical sites.
Preceptors model professionalism by:
a. Arriving to work on time
b. Being ready to work with the student at the scheduled time
c. Being prepared to work with the student; having a plan
d. Completing the student evaluation forms in a timely manner, with honesty and careful thought including constructive
feedback.
e. Reporting of students in violation of the previously mentioned behavioral expectations
f. Avoiding negative conversation with the student regarding other students or coworkers
g. Avoiding gossip, badmouthing, or otherwise negative attitudes toward or with the students and or coworkers
h. Treating the student with respect and being cognizant of the fact that the student is attending the clinical site as part
of their education, not as an employee.
i. Avoiding showing students “shortcuts” or non-SOP ways of performing a task
j. Do not use students to replace personnel who have called in sick, nor coerce the student to perform like an employee
with the promise of a good evaluation or future employment.
k. Do not require students to perform work that will be resulted if the student has not been trained, supervised or
deemed competent to perform independently.
l. Do not assume the student knows or understands more than they actually do.
m. Do not assume they understand the details of the job.
n. Do not assume students who may be employees in other areas of healthcare, are safe to work in the lab and report
results without supervision.
o. Students should not be “on the clock” at the same time they are acting as a student.

Model Professional Behavior

• Follow HIPAA regulations at all times
• Follow clinical site SOP’s at all times
• Follow OSHA guidelines and guidelines in the clinical site hygiene and exposure control plans
• Follow site dress codes
• Refrain from the use or abuse of medications, drugs, and alcohol
• Model calm, professional behavior in the face of instrument breakdown, error, heavy workload and conflict.

Model Professional Communication

• Having a positive attitude toward the student and level of education achieved
• Promote a positive attitude about the profession and the Minnesota North MLT program
• Report any incidents or infractions of policy to the Liaison, Coordinator, and Program Director
• Communicate clearly and calmly; remember, students feel burdensome, overwhelmed, out of place, nervous,
insecure and underprepared.
• Listen respectively to student concerns and take them seriously. Seek help if necessary.
• Do not break the student’s confidence or be disrespectful to the student especially in front of patients or other
students.
• Do not complain about the clinical site, coworkers, administration, other students, program faculty or staff or
make derogatory statements in front of the student about others.
• If the student points out an error, do not become defensive. Show them that errors occur and how to correct the
error in the proper way and avoid them in the future.
MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 17
 • Students are expected to be respectful of differences in institutional SOP’s and policies which may differ from
educational policies and SOP’s. They should see respect at the clinical site for educational policies which differ
from institutional policies as well as differences between other clinical sites to which students may have been
previously exposed.

Know that the faculty and students here at Minnesota North truly do appreciate your time, patience, expertise and willingness
to participate in their education and are extremely grateful.

State Licensure
Minnesota North MLT program is a NAACLS accredited program. Students completing the MLT program with a C or better
in ALL courses are eligible to sit for the ASCP Board of Registry national certification exam. Many states are requiring MLT’s
to also be licensed for their particular state. Currently Wisconsin and Minnesota do not require a state certification. The
following states DO require a state licensure: California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, New York,
North Dakota, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and West Virginia. This list is subject to change. The Minnesota North
MLT program does not take on the responsibility of preparing for each individual state licensure. Students are strongly
encouraged to take the national certification exam as soon as possible after graduation. The MLT degree confirmation is not
contingent upon the passing of the state or national board exams.

V. Student Information
Academic Grievances
A student has the right to challenge a given grade. The request must be made within one year following the semester in which
it was given. If a student is requesting that a grade be changed, the following steps must be taken:
• Student must submit a written request to the instructor who gave the grade.
• If the matter is not resolved to the student’s satisfaction, the student may follow the student complaint/grievance
procedure as stated in the Student Handbook available online or from Student Services.

Student Academic Petitions

Students wishing to waive a college rule or regulation for unusual or unforeseen circumstances should complete a “Student
Petition.” Forms are available in Student Services and should be submitted to the Registration desk. Student petitions include
but are not limited to readmission to the college after having been suspended, adding or dropping a class after the deadline,
requests for financial aid exceptions, and requests related to academic holds.

Claims by a Student Alleging Improper, Unfair, Arbitrary, or Discriminatory Treatment

A student has the right to seek a remedy for a dispute or disagreement through a designated complaint or grievance procedure.
The objective of the procedure is to resolve problems as quickly and efficiently as possible at the level closest to the student so
that student’s educational progress can continue. Nothing within this process precludes a student from seeking legal counsel
at any step. The student(s) with a complaint may either go to an instructor, advisor, or one of the counselors. The staff
members attempt to work with the student and any other persons who are involved to resolve the problem within seven (7)
working days. If the matter is not resolved to the student’s satisfaction, the student may follow the student
complaint/grievance procedure as state in the Student Handbook.

Withdrawal from the Program

Students considering withdrawing from the MLT program should discuss this matter with the program advisor and/or MLT
Program Director. Withdrawal is a formal procedure and needs to be completed by the student in Admissions. Students need
to follow Minnesota North policies and procedures regarding program and course withdrawal.

Student Health
It is the student’s responsibility to inform the appropriate instructor(s) of any physical condition or change in his/her health
status that could interfere with the technical standards of a MLT. Students assume full responsibility for their own accidents
or injuries that may occur during classroom, lab or internship settings. Students who sustain injuries during their internship

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 18

will be responsible for completing the required incident forms provided by the clinic or facility. All injuries that occur in the
lab or during the student’s internship must be communicated to the Program Director and facility staff immediately!
Forms for participation in student health insurance plans are available at the Academic Center. Please check your insurance
needs and coverage to determine if you need to include additional coverage. All international students and visiting scholars
engaged in educational activities are required to purchase the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities International Student
Accidental Illness Insurance plan; unless they can provide a written verification that their government or sponsoring agency
accepts full responsibility for any medical claims that may occur.
Students are covered with liability and malpractice insurance during their internship which is provided by the college. The cost
of this insurance is included in the student’s college fees.

Communication
Communication is vital. No problem can be resolved until they are made known.
Instructor Communication: Student and instructor communication outside of class/office hours are to be done through
email and the office phone number provided.

Student Email: Students are expected to check their college email a minimum of three (3) times a week. Faculty send
student and program information to students by this primary mode of communication. Failure to check email is NOT A
VALID EXCUSE for missing important announcements. The official communication for Minnesota North is the student
email account. Private email accounts are not used. Courses take through D2L also facilitate a “message” tab for
communication via that route. The online format, may require students to participate in scheduled or unscheduled discussion
and may be used to relay messages to the class or encourage class dialogue.

Cell Phones and Pagers: Cell phones may only be used in class for the purposes of a calculator, and in rare instances, a
camera. Cell phones and pagers MUST be muted during class. If you must answer a call or page during class or lab, please
excuse yourself from the class to make/take the call. DO NOT answer the phone during class or lab. NO texting is allowed
during class. Likewise, cell phones and pagers should be muted and NOT carried on your person when at internship sites.
IPods, MP3 players, etc. are not allowed in class nor at your internship sites. If you do not follow this policy the faculty
member may ask you to leave the class resulting in an absence in the class.

MLT Teach Out Policy

In the unforeseen event that Minnesota North cannot physically fulfill the obligation to each course on-campus, NAACLS will
be notified within 30 days of the event and MLT courses will be transformed to an online forum and students will be notified
by email. Arrangements will be made to either postpone required labs until safe to return to campus or contact local hospital
affiliates in an effort to supply space and/or supplies as needed to fulfill these requirements.

MLT Temporary Emergency Policy

In the event of an emergency rendering the campus and/or its technology unusable for what is deemed a temporary period of
time, Minnesota North’s MLT program will work with area facilities and the MLT program at Lake Superior College (LSC) in
Duluth, in making every accommodation in order for students to fulfill their requirements. Extended times may be offered to
complete workload. Should this occur, Minnesota North and LSC will communicate needs, requirements and
accommodations to one another in order to facilitate the needs as they arise. Course work may be put in an on-line format for
completion of written course work and exams.

VI. Tuition and Fees

On Campus Estimated Tuition Costs and Fees:
Tuition and Fees: For up to date information visit:
https://hibbing.edu/admissions/paying-for-college/tuition-and-fees

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 19

Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for MLT students both online and on-campus. Information regarding financial aid can be found on
the Hibbing Community College website at http://www.hibbing.edu/financial-aid/financial-aid-overview.html

Additional Information
MLT Lab: The MLT lab is in C-131/132. Hours are posted on the lab doors regarding scheduled lab sessions and when
OPEN labs are available for additional practice. Open labs must be scheduled with the instructor. Students may NOT be in
the lab without prior permission and the presence of an instructor or campus professional.

Safety: Safety policies and procedures are an essential part of the MLT program. Early in the program safety policies and
procedures are covered and students are expected to adhere to them at all times. Consistent and proper use of barrier,
personal protective equipment, and adherence to dress code is continually evaluated and enforced. Lab coats, gloves, shields,
goggles, biohazard and sharps disposal are provided. Students wishing to purchase their own lab coat must make sure that it is
liquid repellent and has cuffed sleeves. Emergency eyewash, emergency shower, safety kit, and fire extinguisher use are
discussed at the beginning of the program. On line students are expected to adhere to their facility’s safety policies and report
to the Safety Officer for individualized facility training and documentation.

Student Records: The MLT program maintains files that include department/student/affiliate contracts, and clinical
education performance evaluations as well as program and course assessments, NAACLS benchmark standards, HIPAA, and
safety records. Student files such as transcripts, are kept with the Records and Admissions departments in locked or electronic
files. Confidentiality is maintained through FERPA. Students over 18 must sign giving authorization to release student
grades.

Student Resources: The Academic Learning Center, writing labs, computer labs and library are available for students serving
a variety of needs including English as a second language, developmental courses, test taking tips, and tutoring. Students
should not hesitate to contact the Learning Center if they feel they are struggling in any course. Instructors may refer students
to the Learning Center if concerns arise. The library has a wide variety of texts in multiple formats that are appropriate for
various courses. It also has a sophisticated on-line network. Computers are located in certain classrooms for immediate
access to the network. Computer access and assistance is available by contacting Instructional Technology.

Contact Information:
Laura Parendo MT (ASCP), MAM, MBA Office: C-136
MLT Program Director
[email protected]
Phone: 218-262-7254 Fax: 218-262-6717

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 20

Appendix A
On Campus Program Plan

Minnesota North College* | Hibbing Campus Academic Year 2022-23

CREDITS HOURS
MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN AAS LEC/LAB
Degree | 62 Credits FIRST YEAR
FALL SEMESTER 2022 – 16 Credits
ALHE 1620 Applied Medical Terminology 2 2/0
BIOL 2371 Human Anatomy and Physiology 4 3/2
1 (MNTC 3)
MLT 1412 Hematology 1 3 2/2
MLT 1423 Laboratory Techniques 4 3/2
PSYC 2225 Group Processes (MNTC 5 & 7) 3 3/0
SPRING SEMESTER 2023 – 16 Credits
BIOL 2372 * Human Anatomy and Physiology 4 3/2
2 (MNTC 3)
MLT 1424 Medical Microbiology 1 4 2/4
MLT 1425 Clinical Chemistry 1 2 2/0
MLT 1432 * Hematology 2 3 2/2
MLT 1445 Immunology 3 2/2
SUMMER SEMESTER 2023 - 6 Credits
COMM 1210 Introduction to Communications 3 3/0
(MNTC 1)
General Education Electives from Goal 1-6 of the MNTC ** # 3
SECOND YEAR
FALL SEMESTER 2023 – 12 Credits
MLT 2424 * Medical Microbiology 2 4 2/4
MLT 2435 Urinalysis and Body Fluids 2 1/2
Analysis
MLT 2445 * Clinical Chemistry 2 2 2/0
MLT 2466 Blood Bank 4 2/4
SPRING SEMESTER 2024 – 12 Credits
MLT 2510 MLT Seminar 2 2/0
MLT 2590 * Clinical Practicum 10

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 21

Appendix B
Minnesota North College* | Hibbing Campus Academic Year 2022-23
CREDITS HOURS
MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN LEC/LAB
(ONLINE) AAS Degree | 62 Credits FIRST YEAR
SUMMER SEMESTER 2022 – 6 Credits
MLT 1423 Laboratory Techniques 4 3/1
ALHE 1620 Applied Medical 2 2/0
Terminology
FALL SEMESTER 2022 – 8 Credits
MLT 1425 Clinical Chemistry 1 2 2/0
MLT 1445 Immunology 3 2/1
PSYC 2225 Group Processes (MNTC 5 & 3 3/0
7)
SPRING SEMESTER 2023 – 6 Credits
MLT 2445 * Clinical Chemistry 2 2 2/0
MLT 2466 Blood Bank 4 2/2
SECOND YEAR
SUMMER SEMESTER 2023 – 3 Credits
General Education Electives from Goal 1-6 of the MNTC ** # 3
FALL SEMESTER 2023 – 6 Credits
MLT 1424 Medical Microbiology 1 4 2/2
MLT 2435 Urinalysis and Body Fluids 2 1/1
Analysis
SPRING SEMESTER 2024 – 7 Credits
MLT 2424 * Medical Microbiology 2 4 2/2
COMM 1210 Introduction to 3 3/0
Communication (MNTC 1)
THIRD YEAR
FALL SEMESTER 2024 – 7 Credits
MLT 1412 Hematology 1 3 2/1
BIOL 2371 Human Anatomy and 4 3/1
Physiology 1 (MNTC 3)
SPRING SEMESTER 2025 – 7 Credits
MLT 1432 * Hematology 2 3 2/1
BIOL 2372 * Human Anatomy and 4 3/1
Physiology 2 (MNTC 3)
SUMMER SEMESTER 2025 – 12 Credits
MLT 2510 MLT Seminar 2 2/0
MLT 2590 * Clinical Practicum 10

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 22

Appendix C
MLT Program Statement
of Support

Minnesota North Hibbing Campus, located in Hibbing, Minnesota, is excited to be able to offer
a fully accredited MLT program online. The online program option allows a valued employee
the opportunity to further their educational goals and obtain certification required for
advanced levels of laboratory work without changing jobs, relocating or going back to school
full-time.

The didactic component of this program will be delivered online by experienced Minnesota
North College, Hibbing campus faculty. The laboratory components of the program will be
completed at the student’s work place or other approved clinical site with the help of a
designated mentor or facilitator. This facilitator/mentor works with the student on assigned
laboratory exercises and serves as a proctor for written examinations. To complete the
required laboratory assignments, the student will need access to laboratory procedure
manuals, laboratory instrumentation, and bench supplies and reagents at the facility.

Before the student can be accepted into the online program, the student must obtain this
Statement of Support indicating that their employer understands and is willing to undertake
these responsibilities. In addition, the Facility Fact Sheet and Faculty Fact Sheet (see
attached) must be completed and reviewed by Minnesota North College Academic Affairs and
Standards Committee before the student’s application can be finalized.

For more information about Hibbing Community College’s online MLT program, please
contact the MLT Program Director.

Student:______________________________________________________________________

Facility Name:_________________________________________________________________

Address:______________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________________________________________

Telephone: (______)_____________________ Fax: (_______)_________________________

Laboratory Supervisor/Manager:__________________________________________________

Mentor or Contact Person at Site:_________________________________________________

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 23

Statement of Support
1. The purpose of this Agreement shall be to provide laboratory support and instructional mentoring to
students enrolled in the MLT program at Minnesota North College.

2. The laboratory support shall be provided at ______________________________located

at________________________________________________________________________
hereafter referred to as the CLINICAL FACILITY.

RESPONSIBIITIES OF MINNESOTA NORTH COLLEGE:

A. Minnesota North College will designate a Faculty Member for the purpose of providing adequate
direction and coordination of the student’s off-site laboratory training.

B. Minnesota North College will provide the CLINICAL FACILITY with written objectives for each
course/rotation.

C. Minnesota North College and Faculty will be responsible for the planning, development, and evaluation
of all course objectives.

RESPONSIBIITIES OF CLINICAL FACILITY

A. The CLINICAL FACILITY will maintain current accreditation by recognized regional and/or national
agencies (e.g., CLIA, CAP, JCAHO). The CLINICAL FACILITY will notify the MLT Program Director of any
reduction, cancellation or proposed cancellation of such accreditation.

B. The CLINICAL FACILITY will designate a qualified staff member to serve as a Clinical Coordinator for the
student’s laboratory training.

The Coordinator:
1. shall provide directly or through his/her designee supervision of student’s laboratory activities
at the CLINICAL FACILITY.

2. shall serve as a proctor for written examinations.

3. shall keep any student records required by Hibbing Community College.

4. shall maintain open dialogue and communication with the Program Director regarding the
student’s progress, problems, concerns etc.

C. The CLINICAL FACILITY will designate a qualified staff member to serve as a liaison for the student’s
laboratory training.

The Liaison:
1. shall assign the student duties as appropriate and to the student’s level of development and
ability

2. shall assign departmental duties reflecting progressive responsibilities consistent with the
stated objectives.

3. Shall maintain constant oversight of all student activities in the area of study
4. Shall assess student performance in specific area of study.

JOINT RESPONSIBILITIES:
Prohibition Against Discrimination. Minnesota North College and the CLINICAL FACILITY jointly agree
that the parties shall not discriminate in their training or education of any person or in the conditions of
training or education or in other actions taken as a result of this Agreement by reason of race, sex, color,
creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance,
sexual orientation, or membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law.
MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 24
In consideration of the mutual benefits to the respective parties, Hibbing Community College and the
CLINICAL FACILITY agree to the terms set forth above.

CLINICAL FACILITY

BY: ________________________________________

TITLE: ______________________________________

DATE: ______________________________________

MINNESOTA NORTH COLLEGE

BY: ________________________________________

TITLE: ______________________________________

DATE: ______________________________________

Please mail or FAX this to:

Admissions
Minnesota North College Hibbing
1515 East 25th Street
Hibbing, MN 55746

FAX: 218-262-6717

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 25

Appendix D
Clinical Facility Fact Sheet (All Programs)

Facility
Institution
Address
City, State, Zip
Telephone

Accreditation
Accredited by TJC CLIA COLA CAP Other (please list)

Check all that apply

For Phlebotomy Programs only:

# of Phlebotomy Procedures per Year

# of Students in Clinical Experience at a Time
Type of Sites used for Phlebotomy Experience Hospital
Outpatient Clinic
Outpatient Drawing Station:
Nursing Home:
Home Collection
Clinical Liaison
Name and Position
Credentials
Certification/Licensure Agency and Number
Education
Length of Experience in Clinical Laboratory
Types of Positions held in the Field

For each of the following clinical areas, please identify (add rows as needed):
Department # Students in clinical experience at one Length of clinical
time experience

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 26

For each of the following clinical areas, please identify instrumentation available to
students.

Department Instrumentation or method used:

Microbiology
Blood Bank
Chemistry
Hematology
Urinalysis
Serology
Other: Specify

(Institutions not accredited by Joint Commission, CAP, AABB or COLA

are required to submit documentation of continuing education of laboratory staff)

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 27

Appendix E
Didactic Faculty Fact Sheet (All Programs)

Faculty: please complete for EACH preceptor designated to work with student(s)
Name Credentials
Employed by Position/Title

Certification Information (please list all)

Credential Certified by Certification # Year Certified

Distribution of Work
Teaching (%) Administration (%) Clinical Services (%) Research (%)
Proportion of time
in each area

Education
Education Institution Field of Study Degree Year
Undergraduate
Graduate
Other (Specify)

Experience (List current position first):

Institution/City/State Position Years

List principal functions in the education program:

Attach three consecutive years of professional development activities that are relevant to the
position functions.

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 28

Appendix F

Prior to placement in any clinical affiliate, the following must be documented and turned into the Clinical
Site Coordinator and Site HR if required.

Student: ________________________________________

ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE PROOF OF IMMUNITY AS FOLLOWS:

Immunization Documentation Date(s)

MEASLES, Documentation of immunity to measles & mumps & rubella (positive antibody
MUMPS, RUBELLA titer >1:8) or

Documentation of two (2) doses of measles/mumps or MMR vaccine

received after first birthday
CHICKENPOX Medically Documented history of chickenpox disease with full diagnosis and
(VARICELLA) date or
Documented evidence of immunity to chickenpox (Positive antibody titer
>1:8) or

Documentation of two (2) does of Varivax (Chickenpox Vaccine) or One

dose of Zostavax Or two (2) doses of Shigrix (shingles vaccine)
TUBERCULOSIS 1. Two negative Tuberculin Skin Tests (Mantoux, PPD)
• If this is the first TST or if it has been more than 12 months since
the person had a negative TST, a two-step test is required. If the
first TST is negative, the second TST must be given 1-3 weeks
after the first is read.
• For annual 1-step TSTs, (within 12 mos of previous TST), a copy
of the negative test results for the previous 12 months must be on
file
2. A negative lab documented TB screening (T-spot, TB Quantiferon)
within the past 12 mos.

3. Individuals with a past positive TB screening must comply with each

of the following:
• Initial medical evaluation and clearance by provider including a chest
X-ray within 12 months of starting clinical experiences
• Subsequent annual medical evaluation and clearance by provider
• Follow up chest X- ray required every 5 yeas

DIPHTHERIA, Documentation of a single booster dose (given as TdaP vaccine) within the
TETANUS and previous two years
PERTUSIS NOTE: Tdap is not the same as other vaccines containing some or even all of
the vaccine components (D-T-A-P) such as Dtap, Td, or DT
Documentation that a 3 shot Hepatitis B immunization series has been
completed or laboratory evidence of immunity to Hepatitis through a positive
HEPATITIS B antibody test to Hepatitis B

Annual Flu Shot Documentation of annual flu shot or signed and approved influenza vaccine
exemption
COVID-19 Documentation of at least 2 COVID-19 shots (or signed medical or religious
exemption form on file)

Provider Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____________

Please attach facility documentation of mandated vaccines.

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 29

Appendix G

Minnesota College MLT Program Hepatitis B Verification/ Declination

Form
The MLT program requires students to be exposed to potentially harmful blood and/or body
fluids. Often samples are collected from area hospital patients. Because Minnesota North
cannot guarantee the safety of theses samples, it is essential that prior to the start of the MLT
program all students have on file, verification of immunity to hepatitis B or a stated declination
of the vaccine. The immunization is a series of 3 vaccines. Failing to submit proof of
vaccination or a declination will result in a hold on the student’s application process.
Please complete the following information and submit it to the admissions office.

Documentation that a 3 shot Hepatitis B immunization series has been completed or

Laboratory evidence of immunity to Hepatitis B

Please submit the dates of your hepatitis B vaccinations

Dates: (3 ) ____________ _______________ ______________

Or

Lab verification of HBV immunity: date: __________________________

Student Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ______________

Or
I have been informed of my risk to hepatitis B during the course of the MLT program. I am
declining the hepatitis B vaccination at this time and in no way hold HCC accountable should I
become infected with the virus.

Student Signature: ______________________________________ Date: _______________

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 30

Appendix H

Laboratory Safety and HIPAA Training Record

Name: (please print) _______________________________

I have received information on the following topics:

Check all that apply:
Infection Control, including the Use of Personal Protective
Equipment
Procedures to Take in the Event of a Contaminated Needlestick
Injury
Proper Disposal of Hazardous Materials and Infectious Waste
Employee Right to Know and MSDS

Proper Use of Fire Extinguishers

Emergency Response Procedures

HIPAA Privacy Regulations in Healthcare Settings and Student

Laboratory

I know whom to contact if I have questions/concerns about any

of these topics.

Signature:__________________________________ Date: _______

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 31

I have read and fully understand the MLT procedures and policies
discussed in the MLT Handbook.

Student Name
(Printed)____________________________________________

Student
Signature:___________________________________________

Student
ID#:______________________________________________

Date:______________________________________________

MMEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – MAY 2022 32