Distance Learning

Online Distance Learning Courses

Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science [DipMLS (PPTC)] 2021 – 2022

Online Distance Learning Programme 

Structure of the course

The 2021- 2022 PPTC Diploma consists of 6 modules in the laboratory sciences and these are as follows:

  1. Laboratory Technology
  2. Biochemistry
  3. Haematology
  4. Microbiology
  5. Transfusion Science
  6. Laboratory Quality Management System

Each module is divided into six sections to cover the basic principles and theory of that laboratory science with an emphasis on the ‘how and why’ and the importance and relevance of accurate and reliable laboratory testing in both the initial diagnosis of disease and the monitoring of treatment.

At the end of each section, there is a series of multi-choice questions which must be completed and returned to the PPTC for marking. There is also an associated log book with each module (except Laboratory Technology and Laboratory Quality Management System) which the student must complete.

The content of each logbook is based on routine procedures currently employed within each discipline and as each log book task is completed, signoff by the charge technician or head of department is required until the logbook is fully completed.

Each logbook not only details the practical tasks to be carried out but also contains a comprehensive theory section associated with each procedure and therefore acts as an information resource once completed by the student. Each logbook will be returned to the student once completed and marked by the PPTC so as it can be used by the student as a reference.

On successful completion of each module which includes theory and practical requirements, successful students are awarded a certificate of achievement in the discipline studied.

There is an examination-based assessment for the DipMLS programme. The examination is divided into two parts, part 1 covering the theoretical contents from the first three modules namely Lab Technology, Haematology, and Biochemistry.

Part 2 covers the theoretical contents from the second-year modules; Microbiology, Transfusion Science and Laboratory Quality Management Systems, and will be held in 2023. The examination booklets for part 1 and part 2 will be presented to students by the charge technician in the respective laboratories. The charge technicians will be expected to supervise these exams at the end of the respective year. These examinations will be conducted in the strictest examination environment.

Students who successfully complete all six [6] modules and the respective end of the year examinations will be awarded a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science granted by the PPTC.

The Diploma course is delivered over a two-year period to students who have registered for the programme.

The 2021 – 2022 Diploma cycle commenced in July 2021, as per the schedule below.  You can download the 2021 schedule here:  PPTC Diploma Key dates 2021 Participant Copy

PPTC Diploma Schedule

2021 Modules:

  • Laboratory Technology: 5 July – 24 September 2021
  • Haematology: 27 September – 24 December 2021
  • Biochemistry: 7 February – 29 April 2022
  • Part 1 Examinations: 25 May 2022

2022 Modules:

  • Microbiology: Dates TBA
  • Transfusion Science: Dates TBA
  • Laboratory Quality Management Systems: TBA
  • Part 2 Examinations – TBA
Funding:

The course is funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and is provided at no cost to eligible students.  The application for the 2021 – 2022 cycle is now closed and the next cycle will begin in 2023.

Current Module being delivered - 2021-2022 Diploma Cycle

Laboratory Technology Module: 5 July – 24 September 2021

Due Dates for Assignments:

  • Section 1 of the module will begin on 5 July; submit answers by 16th July
  • Start Section 2 on 19th July, submit answers by 30th July
  • Start Section 3 on 2nd August, submit answers by 13th August
  • Start Section 4 on 16th August, submit answers by 27th August
  • Start Section 5 on 30th August submit answers by 10th September
  • Start Section 6 on 13th September submit answers by 24th September.                        

For further information contact: Russell Cole, Programme Manager, PPTC, PO Box 7013 Wellington, New Zealand Telephone: 64 4 389 6294 Email: russellc@pptc.org.nz