MSc Transfusion Science

Transfusion Science (TS) is the domain of laboratory and clinical medicine concerned with all aspects of the collection, testing, preparation, storage, transportation, pre-transfusion testing, post-transfusion follow up, indications for transfusion, infusion, and safety of human blood components and products (such as platelets, plasma, stem cells) and alternative blood products manufactured by recombinant DNA technology. These laboratory and clinical activities are undertaken in such a way that the rights of blood donors, patients, and families are respected, and scarce resources are appropriately allocated.

The Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, together with the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, are committed to provide the necessary resources in partnership with our clinical counterparts Alberta Precision Laboratories, Canadian Blood Services, and the Canadian Society for Transfusion Medicine to implement, to successfully operate, and to sustain the MSc specialization program in Transfusion Science.

The course and practicum-based program comprises two years of full-time or four years of part-time studies leading to a Master of Science in Laboratory Medicine and Pathology with specialization in Transfusion Science (TS).

This full time program consists of two terms (8 months) of didactic courses, followed by a second year of 8 months including clinical practicum, electives, and a capping project. Part time studies are also available with approval of the Graduate Studies Director.

The clinical component of the program will be competency-based with students expected to complete all competencies in advanced transfusion science laboratory training, such as theory and practice of immunohematology, blood donation, supply and distribution, blood product inventory management in support of specific hematological disorders, and quality management and regulatory systems in a blood bank context.  

Director, Graduate Studies: Dr. Jelena Holovati, PhD, Associate Professor 

For any additional inquiries regarding admission, please contact lmpadmis@ualberta.ca.