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MLS410 - Professional Practice

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Medical Laboratory Science

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Must have passed 2 units in (MLS401, MLS402)

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit integrates major divisions of the pathology laboratory to ensure comprehensive diagnostic outcomes essential for positive healthcare delivery. It explores the role of pathology laboratories within the healthcare sector and the potential career paths for a medical scientist. Students will evaluate laboratory-based information to diagnose complex diseases through interdisciplinary knowledge, with an appreciation of the factors that impact rural and remote and First Nations health. Students will also cover aspects of laboratory accreditation and management, develop their interpersonal skills, decision making, leadership and teamwork ability. Furthermore, they will explore concepts of research, ethics in human experimentation, and the importance of information retrieval and critical analysis of literature. This unit will build student confidence and prepare them for the workforce.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Evaluate multi-disciplinary laboratory information to facilitate disease diagnosis, with an appreciation of the Northern Territory context.
2.	Develop an understanding of the various factors that impact the operation of an efficient pathology service, such as laboratory accreditation, quality control, logistics, staffing, and budgetary considerations.
3.	Critically analyse research publications with an ethical and scientific context
4.	Develop effective leadership, communication and decision-making skills as required in a laboratory setting.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Journal Article Review (300 words)	5%	1,2,3
2.	Reflective Essay (1000 words)	20%	1,2,3
3.	Journal Club Presentation (1000 words)	20%	3,4
4.	Workforce assessment (4-8 pages + 10 mins)	30%	1,4
5.	Poster Presentation (5 mins/student)	15%	1,3
6.	Test (30 mins - Hurdle)	10%	1,2,4

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	INT-4	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View

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OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2026 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
2026 Incidental Fees (PDF)