What do students want in an online medical laboratory science degree advancement programme? A descriptive case study

Author's Biography

Jason D. Key, MEd, MLS(ASCP)CM, is an Assistant Professor and Assistant Program Director in the Department of Laboratory Sciences at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). He earned a Master of Education in adult education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a Bachelor of Science in medical laboratory science from UAMS. His teaching and scholarly work focus on medical laboratory science education, online MLT-to-MLS degree advancement, student success, and workforce development. He has contributed to curriculum development, student recruitment, programme growth, and national professional service within the laboratory sciences field.

Dr Nathan Johnson, PhD, MASCP, MLS(ASCP), DLM, SC, SLS, CC(NRCC), is Professor and Chair of the Department of Laboratory Sciences at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). As Program Director, he leads the oldest and largest National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)-accredited medical laboratory science (MLS) programme in the US, serving students across the US through innovative online and hybrid delivery models. As Chair, he also provides oversight for the UAMS Cytology programme. Prior to joining UAMS, Nathan served 28 years in the US Air Force, retiring at the rank of Colonel, and directed the Defense Health Agency’s Center for Laboratory Medicine Services, providing enterprise-level oversight of Department of Defense clinical laboratories worldwide.

Corinne Hollingsworth, MLS(ASCP), has worked in the clinical laboratory profession since 1996 and transitioned to academia in 2023. She currently serves as one of the Assistant Program Directors for the MLT-to-MLS Bridge Program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), where her responsibilities include student recruitment, instruction, advising, and programme administration. Drawing on nearly 30 years’ laboratory experience, Corinne is passionate about supporting working laboratory professionals as they advance their education and careers through flexible, student-centred online learning.

Sarah Parker, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM, is an Assistant Professor and Director of Academic Advising and Onboarding in the Department of Laboratory Sciences at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). She holds a Master of Science in medical laboratory science from the University of North Dakota and bachelor’s degrees in medical laboratory science and biology. In her role at UAMS, Sarah provides leadership for new student onboarding, advising, admissions, and academic support. She also teaches courses in the programme, including topics in molecular diagnostics and current topics in medical laboratory science. Sarah is dedicated to student success and workforce development, with a particular focus on expanding access to laboratory science education and supporting non-traditional distance learners. She also maintains active clinical practice as a Medical Laboratory Scientist. This role allows her to bring current laboratory experience into the classroom and advising environment. Sarah has presented nationally on topics related to laboratory science education and certification. In addition, she is actively involved in professional service and currently serves as President of the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Arkansas chapter (ASCLS-AR). In this role, she advocates for the laboratory profession and the advancement of laboratory education.

Shaneika Chambers, MHA, MLS(ASCP)CM, is an Assistant Professor and Technical Specialist with nine years’ experience in medical laboratory science. She holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and medical laboratory science, as well as a Master of Health Administration. In her role, Shaneika combines her expertise in laboratory operations with her passion for education, helping prepare future laboratory professionals while supporting high standards in clinical testing, quality, accuracy, and patient care. Her professional interests include laboratory education, workforce development, data analysis, problem solving, and evidence-based decision making. Shaneika is committed to mentoring students and professionals, fostering collaborative learning environments, and advancing laboratory education to meet the needs of an evolving healthcare field.