South Dakota State University’s medical laboratory science program has been granted $750,000 from the Association of Public Health Laboratories to boost the profession in South Dakota. This significant advancement for the program at SDSU will help it grow and improve. Stacie Lansink, the program director, expressed her excitement about the opportunities that this award brings.
The funding will allow the medical laboratory science program to enhance its on-campus lab equipment and purchase technology to improve online offerings. Clinical assistant professor April Nelsen mentioned that new equipment like a slide scanner and microscopes will benefit both on-campus and remote students. The slide scanner will enable remote students to conduct microscopic work from their location, while the new technology will allow instructors to monitor student learning in real time.
Moreover, this award will support recruiting efforts and program expansion within the department through increased scholarship opportunities. These enhancements will directly impact student learning within the program and provide a more accessible educational experience.
Lansink and Nelsen also highlighted the growing demand for medical laboratory professionals in the workforce. They referenced a 2022 Forbes article on workforce shortages and emphasized how crucial these professionals are in healthcare decision-making. While continued support from health care systems and alumni is necessary, this award is a significant step towards improving the program’s delivery and reducing financial barriers for potential students.
In conclusion, this $750,000 award will lead to a higher quality and more accessible medical laboratory science program at South Dakota State University. By addressing the increasing demand for laboratory professionals, this program will continue to play a vital role in meeting the needs of the growing healthcare workforce.
