Frequently Asked Questions
About the Program
What is included in the Medical Laboratory Assistant program at West Coast College?
You’ll learn to draw blood, process lab samples, run basic tests, perform ECGs (heart tests), and handle front-office duties. The program mixes classroom learning with hands-on lab practice and a practicum. Learn more about the program here.
How long does the Medical Laboratory Assistant program take to complete?
28 weeks total: 24 weeks in the classroom and lab, plus 4 weeks of practicum. More info on the Program Details page.
Is your Medical Laboratory Assistant program available full-time or part-time?
It’s a full-time, in-person program. Students attend class daily; there’s no part-time or online option.
Does the program include hands-on laboratory training?
Yes. You’ll practice in labs with real industry-standard equipment.
Will I learn phlebotomy during the program?
Yes, blood collection (phlebotomy) is a core skill you’ll practice throughout the program.
Do students complete a practicum or clinical placement?
Yes. Every student who finishes the classroom portion gets a 4-week practicum, arranged by the college. See our Career Opportunities page for how practicums connect to jobs.
Where are practicum placements usually located?
Placements are in the Lower Mainland, at hospitals or private laboratories.
What are the admission requirements for the program?
You need to be 19 or older before the program starts, and have graduated high school (or have a GED), or qualify as a mature student (out of school 5+ years). You’ll also complete an application and interview. Full steps are on our Admission Process page.
Can I apply without healthcare experience?
Yes. No prior healthcare background is required to apply.
Is this a good program for someone changing careers?
Yes. Many students come from other fields and use this program as a fast route into the healthcare industry.
Career & Job Questions
What jobs can I apply for after graduating from your Medical Laboratory Assistant program?
Roles like Medical Laboratory Assistant, phlebotomist, lab support worker, and front-line lab or clinic positions. See our Career Opportunities page for details.
Can graduates work in hospitals after completing the program?
Yes. Graduates work in hospitals as well as private labs and clinics.
Are Medical Laboratory Assistants in demand in British Columbia?
Healthcare support roles are generally in steady demand across BC, especially with an aging population needing more lab testing.
How quickly do graduates typically find work after graduation?
West Coast College of Healthcare reports that 90–95% of graduates find work in the field, and many secure jobs even before finishing their practicum. See our Career Opportunities page.
What is the average salary for a Medical Laboratory Assistant in BC?
Wages typically start around $ 30- $ 32 per hour for graduates and go up from there.
Can this program help me start a long-term healthcare career?
Yes. Many graduates use it as a stepping stone toward further healthcare education or specialized lab roles.
What is the difference between a Medical Laboratory Assistant and a Medical Laboratory Technologist?
An Assistant handles sample collection, processing, and basic tests. A Technologist does more advanced testing and analysis and needs a longer, more specialized education. Read more on our Blog.
Can I work in private labs and clinics after graduation?
Yes. Graduates work in both public hospitals and private labs or clinics.
Will this program help me gain healthcare experience for future education?
Yes. It gives you real clinical experience that can support applications to further healthcare programs later on.
What skills do employers look for in Medical Laboratory Assistant graduates?
Steady hands for blood draws, attention to detail, good communication with patients, and reliability in following safety procedures.
Practical & Student Concerns
Is the Medical Laboratory Assistant program difficult?
It’s a fast-paced, hands-on program, so it takes focus and commitment, but it’s designed for beginners with no science background.
Can I work while studying in the program?
It’s possible, but since it’s a full-time daily program, your school schedule will take priority. Many students adjust work hours around class time.
What is a typical school schedule like?
Classes run from Monday to Thursday, from 7:30 am to 1:45 pm. The first half of class focuses on lectures and lessons, while the second half is spent in lab practice.
What happens during the practicum portion of the program?
You’ll apply your classroom skills in a real hospital or lab setting, working alongside professionals under supervision. See the Program Details page for more info.
What should I expect on my first day in a clinical placement?
Expect an orientation to the site, introductions with staff, and a chance to observe before doing any hands-on tasks yourself. However, they may start you on basic tasks.
Will I learn how to handle real patient specimens?
Yes, both in your lab training and during your practicum.
Do students receive interview preparation or resume help?
Yes. The program includes a Career and Employment Strategies course to help with resumes, interviews, and job searching. See our Career Opportunities page.
What support is available if I struggle with coursework?
Instructors go above and beyond to ensure every student succeeds in the program by answering questions throughout lessons and labs, providing personalized one-on-one support, and helping students build the confidence and competence needed to master their phlebotomy skills. With students of diverse ages and backgrounds, we are committed to ensuring everyone understands the concepts taught in class and can confidently apply them in real-world clinical settings.
Certification & Requirements
Does the program prepare students for certification exams?
Yes, the program is designed to meet the training standards recognized by BCSLS (BC Society of Laboratory Science).
Are immunizations required before the practicum?
Yes. Health facilities require proof of certain immunizations before you can start your practicum.
Do I need a criminal record check before starting clinical training?
Yes, a clear criminal record check is required before clinical placements.
Will I need CPR certification before the practicum?
Yes, CPR certification is typically required before starting your practicum. Prior to graduation, all WCCH Students get their First Aid Certification through the Red Cross. This is included in the tuition fees.
Real Student Pain Points
Can I become a Medical Laboratory Assistant with no previous healthcare background?
Yes, most students start with no healthcare background at all.
What makes graduates stand out to employers?
Hands-on practicum experience, strong technical skills, and professionalism with patients.
What are the most common challenges new Medical Laboratory Assistants face?
Building confidence with blood draws, working efficiently under time pressure, and adjusting to a fast-paced clinical environment.
How physically demanding is Medical Laboratory Assistant work?
It involves standing for long periods, moving between patients or stations, and repetitive tasks like sample collection; moderately active but not heavy labour.
Is this a good career for someone who likes detail-oriented work?
Yes, accuracy and attention to detail are essential in this field.
What type of personality fits well in a laboratory environment?
People who are calm under pressure, organized, detail-focused, and comfortable working with others tend to do well.
Can Medical Laboratory Assistants work night or weekend shifts?
Yes, depending on the employer, hospitals and some labs operate outside regular business hours.
Local & School-Focused Questions
Why choose West Coast College for Medical Laboratory Assistant training in BC?
West Coast College has trained Medical Laboratory Assistants since 1991, the first college of its kind in BC, with small classes, guaranteed practicums, and strong ties to BC health authorities. Read more on our About Us page.
Does West Coast College help students find practicum placements?
Yes. The college arranges a guaranteed practicum placement for every student who completes the classroom portion. See our Career Opportunities page.
What kind of hands-on equipment do students use during training?
Students train on industry-standard lab equipment used in real healthcare settings. See the Program Details page.
Are instructors experienced healthcare professionals?
Yes. Instructors bring real industry experience, including backgrounds as medical technologists and healthcare practitioners. Meet our team on the About Us page.
How does West Coast College prepare students for real laboratory environments?
We prepare students for real lab environments through hands-on lab training in a lab setting, a guaranteed practicum placement, small class sizes, and career support to help students transition smoothly into the workforce.
Have more questions?
Visit our Admission Process page to apply, or contact us by calling (604) 951-6644, toll-free 1-800-807-8558, or by email at admin@westcoastcollege.com.