Online Biology I & II with Lab for MLS Applicants

The foundation of the ASCP 16+16 biology requirement. Two-semester sequence covering cell biology, genetics, and ecology — regionally accredited, self-paced, and accepted by NAACLS programs.

MLS Prerequisites Hub

4 per semesterCredit Hours

Self-PacedStart any month

UIUHLC Regionally Accredited

OfficialTranscript to ASCP/Program

🏛HLC Regionally Accredited (UIU)

✅ASCP & NAACLS Program Accepted

📅Start Any Month — Self-Paced

🎓Official UIU Transcript

💬Advisor Support Included

✅ Will this count for MLS prerequisites? This course is offered through Upper Iowa University (HLC regionally accredited). The ASCP BOC and NAACLS-accredited MLS programs require prerequisites from regionally accredited institutions. Always verify with your specific program before enrolling.

What You'll Learn

Cell structure, function, and organelles
DNA structure, replication, and gene expression
Mendelian and molecular genetics
Evolution and natural selection
Ecology, ecosystems, and population biology
Organismal biology: plants, animals, fungi
Lab: microscopy, dissection, experimental design

How MLS Programs Use This Course

Biology I & II form the core of the ASCP 16+16 biology requirement. Most NAACLS-accredited MLS programs require 8 credits of general biology as prerequisite coursework. The genetics content directly supports hematology, molecular diagnostics, and cytogenetics rotations in MLS programs.

Biology

Online Biology I with Lab

📚 4 per semester Credits⏱ Self-Paced

$695 per courseTotal · No hidden fees

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Official UIU transcript · Monthly start dates

Which MLS Programs Require This Course

Program / Route	Requires This Course	Online Accepted	Notes
ASCP Route 2 (BOC)	✓ Yes	✓ Yes	Counts toward 16 biology credits
MLT-to-MLS Bridge Programs	✓ Yes	✓ Yes	Most bridge programs require Bio I & II
Indiana University MLS	✓ Yes	✓ Yes	8 credits biology required
Ohio State MLS	✓ Yes	✓ Yes	Verify current online policy
University of Cincinnati MLS	✓ Yes	✓ Yes	General biology sequence required

* Always verify current requirements directly with your target program. Requirements change. Last reviewed May 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Each semester of General Biology is typically 4 credit hours, so Biology I + Biology II = 8 credits toward your 16 biology credits. You then complete the remaining 8 biology credits with Microbiology (4 credits) and Genetics or A&P (4 credits).

Biology II builds on Biology I, so taking them sequentially is strongly recommended. However, you can enroll in Biology II immediately upon completing Biology I — no semester gap required.

ASCP does not explicitly require a lab component for biology credits, but most NAACLS-accredited MLS programs do require biology with lab. UIU's Biology I & II include a virtual lab component that satisfies this requirement at most programs.