Bridging the gap between Australian pathology and university education : Student perceptions of a career pathway in medical laboratory science

Work-integrated learning (WIL) for students studying medical laboratory science (MLS) provides hands-on experience that prepares graduates for entry into the pathology workforce. This study explored the student perceptions of studying MLS, before and after WIL placement in a pathology service, and the associated employment opportunities in a pathology laboratory. The WIL pathology technician model enabled students to gain experience across regional and metropolitan locations within the state of Queensland, Australia. With nearly two thirds of graduates employed in the profession and a quarter continuing further education in this field, this program was regarded as a success and helps meet the needs of a growing population with an expectancy of high quality health care. Discussed in this paper is the unique role of the pathology industry working with a regional university to develop successful graduates for a career in pathology, with a focus on the impact of WIL. [Author abstract]