Laboratory Essentials for COVID-19 Testing
Red River College Polytechnic has launched a new micro-credential course to train specific groups of individuals with a foundation in science and/or working in a laboratory setting in critical laboratory skills necessary to meet the immediate testing needs in response to the COVID-19 outbreak in Manitoba.
The 11-hour, tuition-free course consists of online theory and an applied lab delivered in person.
Course Information
This micro-credential focuses on providing critical laboratory skills necessary to meet the immediate COVID-19 testing needs. Students will become competent at using a micropipette and other common pieces of laboratory equipment required for conducting rapid molecular testing procedures. This micro-credential also includes a review of SARS-CoV-2 the causative agent of COVID-19, brief exploration of the molecular testing method used to identify SARS-CoV-2, safety considerations when working with human samples for COVID-19 testing, and the importance of quality concepts and practices when working as part of the healthcare team.
The course consists of six hours of self-paced online theory and five hours of an in-person skills lab held at RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus to demonstrate competency in performing the skills required.
Sections run as needed and focus on the skills required to use the Songbird Hyris bCUBE and other rapid tests. Students from Brandon and Winkler will take their labs in Winnipeg.
What are Micro-credentials?
Modules
The course consists of five modules:
- SARS-CoV-2, Testing and You
- Safety
- Laboratory Equipment and Skills
- Quality Practices
- Laboratory Practice
Eligibility
The course is available to:
- medical laboratory assistants or technicians with laboratory-related work experience,
- graduates of a science or chemical and biosciences technology program,
- graduates of a pharmaceutical manufacturing program, and
- graduates with a bachelor of science degree with a major or minor in biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, chemistry, microbiology, or zoology.
Proof of eligibility will be required when applying.
Schedules
Sections are currently unavailable.
Apply
Entrance will be based on a first come, first served basis and eligibility requirements. Applications submitted without proper proof of eligibility may be cancelled.
A confirmation of acceptance email will be sent within two business days to individuals who have gained entry to the course.
Sections are currently unavailable.
Additional Information
Questions about the course can be directed to Red River College Polytechnic by calling 204.694.1789 or emailing cde@rrc.ca.