Clinical Laboratory Science Degree

The 4-year Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science program provides students with education in lab sciences, while preparing them for national certification exams. The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences  accredits these programs.Training usually consists of 2-3 years of classroom study followed by clinical training and an internship. Students must gain a high school diploma or the equivalent prior to admission.Program completion prepares graduates for the American Society for Clinical Pathology national certification exam , which may be required by some employers.

Course Topics

These degree programs tend to be heavy in science and medical-related courses. Students develop skills in research, testing and administration, and they explore hematology, immunohematology, molecular diagnostics and toxicology.  Common courses in a bachelor’s degree program include:

1-Biochemistry

2-Genetics

3-Microbiology

4-Human physiology

5-Serology

6-Immunology

Career Options and Salary Information

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  stated that job opportunities for medical and clinical laboratory technologists will be strong, with the number of job openings exceeding the number of qualified job seekers . The career is projected to grow by 14% from 2012-2022 stated the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Graduates can find career titles such as:

1-Medical laboratory technologist

2-Immunology technologists

3-Clinical laboratory technologist

4-Medical technologists

5-Clinical chemical technologist

In May of 2012, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that medical and clinical laboratory technologists received a median yearly salary of $57,685

Certification and Continuing Education Information

Certification is not required in all states for clinical laboratory technologists however, when it is not required, technologists still often choose to obtain certification for the professional benefits. The ASCP, among other organizations, offer official certification for laboratory personnel, which requires work experience and successfully passing an exam.

How to Select a Clinical Laboratory Science School

Clinical laboratory science programs are typically found at 4-year colleges and universities.

Summary of Important Considerations

1-Previous education

2-Emphasis areas

3-State regulations

4-Clinical training

Previous Education

Students holding an associate or bachelor’s degree in biology or other field of science may enroll in a 1-year continuing education certificate program. Bachelor’s degree programs are the standard of the profession and may allow for more variety and opportunity for specialization within the curriculum.

Emphasis Areas

Clinical laboratory technologists have a variety of responsibilities, so students may want to choose a program with classroom or clinical settings that emphasize their interests. Areas of emphasis include immunology, parasitology and microbiology.

State Regulations

Certification, licensure and registration requirements vary by state, and thus students are encouraged to review state regulations to ensure that a prospective program meets their needs. Students interested in certification should ensure that the clinical laboratory science program includes coursework required for their desired certification.

Clinical Training

Programs offering online courses and lectures are available, but due to the nature of the profession, students may find it mandatory to spend considerable time at clinical locations. Some distance education programs are only for those currently working in clinical laboratories.