Medical Laboratory Science trains you to perform laboratory tests that help diagnose and manage disease. In Nigeria it’s a regulated profession and universities usually place the programme in Colleges/Faculties of Health Sciences. Admission rules have three parts you must satisfy: O-level (SSCE/WAEC/NECO), UTME subject combination (JAMB), and Direct Entry (for A-level/degree holders). Many details vary by university. 

1) O-level (SSCE/WAEC/NECO) requirements

Almost every Nigerian university requires at least five (5) credit passes at O-level (WAEC, NECO or equivalent). The compulsory subjects are typically:

• English Language (credit)
• Mathematics (credit)
• Biology or Agricultural Science (credit) — usually Biology preferred
• Chemistry (credit)
• Physics (credit)

Some universities accept the five credits in not more than two sittings; others prefer a single sitting — check each school’s admission brochure. This five-subject pattern is the baseline for UTME and Direct Entry applicants.

2) UTME (JAMB) subject combination for MLS

When registering for JAMB UTME choose the three UTME subjects that match most universities’ requirements:

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology (sometimes Zoology is accepted)

So your UTME combination should be Physics, Chemistry, Biology. This is the commonly required trio for Medical Laboratory Science across Nigerian universities. Always confirm the specific subjects in the admission brochure of the university you’re targeting.

3) Direct Entry (DE) requirements

Direct Entry routes exist for:

1. A-level applicants (GCE A-Level/WAEC A-Level): usually two A-level passes in Biology/Zoology plus Chemistry or Physics.
2. Degree holders: a good first degree (B.Sc) in related biological/biomedical sciences (e.g., Biochemistry, Microbiology, Physiology, Anatomy) — typically not below Second Class Lower.
3. Diploma/Professional qualifications: In some cases, a relevant HND/ND or MLS technician certificate (from recognized institutions) may be accepted for entry into Year II, subject to the host university’s policy.

Example: At many universities Direct Entry stipulates two A-level passes including Biology and Chemistry/Physics, or a relevant B.Sc. See university pages for precise DE matrices.

4) JAMB / UTME cut-off marks — what to expect

Important: there is no single universal “departmental cut-off” set by JAMB for MLS — there are different thresholds:

• Minimum JAMB UTME score (national baseline): JAMB often publishes a benchmark (historically ~140–180 for many programmes); however, for competitive health courses universities often require higher scores.
• University (departmental) cut-offs: Each university sets its own departmental cut-off (and post-UTME screening threshold). For MLS you’ll commonly see departmental cut-offs in the range of 180–220 depending on the university’s competitiveness that year. Top public universities or those with limited quotas may require higher scores.
• Post-UTME/Screening: Meeting JAMB’s minimum does not guarantee admission — you must also pass the university’s post-UTME screening, which often uses a higher threshold.

Because these numbers change annually (competition, quota, policy), treat published cut-offs as guidance and check the target university’s most recent admission notice for the exact figure.

5) Which Nigerian universities offer Medical Laboratory Science?

The Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) maintains an approved list of training institutions (universities) that run accredited MLS programmes. Examples of universities on that approved list include:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Nigeria (UNN & Enugu campus)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• University of Calabar (UNICAL)
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU, Nnewi campus)
• Imo State University (IMSU)
• Ebonyi State University
• Madonna University, Babcock, Ladoke Akintola University, and others.

Because accreditation status and quotas can change, always consult the MLSCN approved-institutions page and individual university prospectuses before applying.

6) Postgraduate (MSc / PhD) requirements in MLS

If you plan to continue beyond the B.Sc.:M.Sc (Master of Science) in Medical Laboratory Science — typical entry requirements:

• A B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Science (or closely related degree like Biochemistry, Microbiology, Anatomy) with minimum Second Class Lower (some universities ask for at least Second Class Upper or a minimum CGPA e.g., 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0).
• Some schools require passing an entrance examination and/or interview, plus submission of a research proposal for research-based MSc tracks.
• Duration: typically 2 years (full-time) — many programmes have coursework + dissertation components. 

PhD in Medical Laboratory Science — typical entry requirements:

• A relevant M.Sc. (or MPhil) usually with a good research record (e.g., minimum M.Sc. grade/CGPA specified by the school).
• A well-developed research proposal and successful viva/selection interview. Duration varies—minimum 3 years in many universities. See departmental postgraduate brochures for exact criteria. 

7) Professional registration & practice requirements

After graduation you must register with the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) — this is the regulatory body that licenses medical laboratory scientists, approves training institutions, and sets minimum standards. Registration (licensure) and any mandatory documentation (e.g., clinical attachment logbooks, internship completion) are required before you can practice professionally in Nigeria. The MLSCN also handles laboratory accreditation and scopes of practice.

8) Practical tips for applicants (do these well)

1. Aim higher than the minimum. For MLS many schools look for stronger science backgrounds — target 200+ in UTME if you can. 
2. Get your five credits early (English, Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology) and avoid spread over too many sittings unless your target school permits two sittings. 
3. Prepare for post-UTME: practise past questions in Biology, Chemistry and Physics; many schools test the three UTME subjects plus English or general knowledge. 
4. If you have an HND or B.Sc. in related fields, check each university’s Direct Entry policy — some allow entry into 200-level or Master’s programmes with conversion requirements. 
5. Confirm accreditation status of the MLS programme at the university via MLSCN’s approved list before committing. Accreditation affects your ability to register professionally after graduation. 

9) Short checklist before applying

• 5 credit O-level passes (Eng, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
• UTME subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
• Meet university-specific UTME cut-off and post-UTME score.
• If applying DE: ensure A-level transcripts or relevant B.Sc./HND meet the department rules.
• Confirm programme accreditation on MLSCN site. 

Here are the major career opportunities available for Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) graduates in Nigeria and abroad. The opportunities are broad because MLS is a core health-care profession that deals with diagnosing, researching, and monitoring diseases.

Career Opportunities for Medical Laboratory Science Graduates

1. Hospital Medical Laboratory Scientist

You can work in government or private hospitals where you run tests in departments such as:

• Hematology
• Microbiology
• Parasitology
• Clinical Chemistry
• Histopathology
• Immunology

This is one of the most common career paths.

2. Diagnostic / Research Laboratories

MLS graduates are highly employable in:

• Private diagnostic centers (e.g., Synlab, Everight, MeCure)
• Specialized laboratories (TB labs, HIV labs, fertility labs)
• Public health laboratories

You will perform specialized tests, analyze samples, and assist in disease surveillance.

3. Public Health & Government Agencies

You can work in:

• NCDC (Nigeria Centre for Disease Control)
• NAFDAC
• NDLEA (Forensic Labs)
• FMOH (Federal Ministry of Health)
• WHO, UNICEF, UNDP (as lab consultants or surveillance officers)

Roles include outbreak investigation, disease control, laboratory monitoring, and quality assurance.

4. Forensic Scientist

For MLS professionals interested in law-enforcement science, opportunities exist in:

• Crime laboratories
• DNA testing labs
• Toxicology units
• Criminal investigation units

You help analyze evidence, toxic substances, and biological samples.

5. Academia / Teaching

MLS graduates can become:

• University lecturers
• Polytechnic or College tutors
• Clinical instructors

This requires postgraduate studies such as MSc or PhD.

6. Research Scientist

You can work in:

• Universities
• Research institutes (NIMR, NIPRD)
• Pharmaceutical labs
• Biotechnology companies

Here, you contribute to scientific studies, vaccine development, drug testing, and innovation.

7. Quality Control / Assurance Scientist

MLS graduates are needed in:

• Food and beverage companies
• Breweries
• Water treatment plants
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Cosmetic industries

You ensure products meet health and safety standards.

8. Infection Control Specialist

Hospitals and health organizations employ MLS professionals to:

• Monitor hospital-acquired infections
• Implement infection prevention protocols
• Train healthcare workers
• Ensure sanitation and sterilization standards

9. Blood Bank / Transfusion Scientist

Work in:

• National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS)
• Hospital blood banks
• Emergency blood services

You help ensure safe blood transfusion processes.

10. Laboratory Management & Administration

With experience, you can become:

• Laboratory manager
• Quality manager
• Technical officer
• Head of department

This role involves supervising staff, equipment maintenance, budgeting, and overall lab operations.

11. Entrepreneurship

Medical Lab Scientists can start:

• Private diagnostic laboratories
• Medical supply companies
• Laboratory consulting agencies
• Home sample collection services

This offers high income potential with proper licensing.

12. Global Career Opportunities

MLS is one of the Nigerian medical courses with huge opportunities abroad. You can work in:

• UK (after HCPC registration)
• USA (after ASCP certification)
• Canada
• Australia
• Middle East hospitals
• European research institutes

Demand is high due to shortages of lab professionals globally.

13. Biosafety & Biosecurity Specialist

You can work with:

• High-containment laboratories (BSL-2, BSL-3)
• Outbreak response teams
• Biosafety research institutions

Your job is to prevent laboratory-acquired infections and ensure safe handling of pathogens.

14. Pharmaceutical Sales & Medical Representative

MLS graduates are qualified to work as:

• Medical reps
• Product specialists
• Laboratory equipment marketers

Your scientific background helps you explain laboratory devices and medical products effectively.

15. Health Data Analyst / Laboratory Informatics

With added training, MLS graduates can become:

• Medical data analysts
• Laboratory information system administrators
• Health record specialists
• Diagnostic AI analysts

This is growing as healthcare becomes more digital.

Bonus: Best-Paying MLS Career Paths

Some of the highest-paying specialties are:

• Molecular diagnostics
• Histopathology
• Hematology
• Microbiology
• Cytopathology
• Forensic science
• Transfusion science
• Global health & infectious disease control

Some Universities in Nigeria Offering Medical Laboratory Science

Federal Universities

• University of Lagos (UNILAG) 
• University of Ibadan (UI) 
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) 
• University of Benin (UNIBEN) 
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) 
• Bayero University, Kano (BUK) 
• University of Jos (UNIJOS) 
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) 
• University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) 
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) 
• University of Calabar (UNICAL) 

State Universities

• Ebonyi State University (EBSU) 
• Imo State University (IMSU) 
• Abia State University (ABSU) 
• Niger Delta University (NDU) 

Private Universities

• Babcock University 
• Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) 
• Madonna University 
• Igbinedion University 
• Lead City University 
• KolaDaisi University 

Final summary

Medical Laboratory Science is a science-heavy, clinically important course. To get in: secure the five O-level credits, pick Physics/Chemistry/Biology for UTME, aim for a competitive JAMB score (often 180–220+ depending on the university), and check Direct Entry rules if you’re a diploma/degree holder. Always confirm exact, current cut-offs, accreditation and screening dates from the specific university and MLSCN — these change year to year.