Curriculum Diversity in BS Medical Laboratory Technology: A Comparative Analysis of National and International Universities

Abstract

Objective: Given the growing role of Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) in healthcare for
precise diagnosis, there is a considerable emphasis on improving the training quality of MLT
professionals. The present study conducted a comparative curriculum analysis of Bachelor of
Science (BS) in Medical Laboratory Technology.
Methodology: This study was conducted between October 2023 to January 2024. It was an
applied descriptive cross-sectional and comparative study. The data were acquired through an
electronic search on the universities' website. A comparative analysis was conducted between
the curriculum of nine national and six foreign universities. The data collection instrument
comprised a checklist developed by the researchers, which was used to retrieve relevant
information.
Results: A review of BS MLT curricula revealed a substantial expansion in the BS MLT discipline
within Pakistan, growing from two universities in 2005 to over 32 universities with diverse
programme titles. Comparative analysis of BS MLT programmes showed a mix of similarities
and differences. This included both the range of courses offered and the content within those
courses. A few of the courses taught at our national universities are not part of foreign
universities and vice versa.
Conclusion: The results indicated that there is a need for a standardized national curriculum to
guarantee uniformity and excellence in MLT education.
Keywords: MLT, Curricula, University, Education, Pakistan