Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science

Degree Overview

A Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Lab Science (CLS) will prepare you to become a well-trained health professional focused on laboratory science. This degree program gives you scientific and technical skills you can utilize everyday in the laboratory of your new career. It prepares you for work in conducting tests or interpreting research and experimental results. Your preparation in both coursework and lab rotations will focus on the main aspect of your future career: the basis, cause, and prevention of diseases. While some schools allow degree completion in as little as 2½ years, students can expect to graduate from most schools in 4 years. Whether you are interested in a bachelor’s degree in the clinical lab sciences to start a new career or enhance an existing one, this degree will help you become a trained professional.

Benefits

A bachelor’s degree in clinical lab science prepares you for a job in the health care field at the level of a clinical lab technologist. The added education received from this program gives students an edge on the competitive job market and increases likelihood for a higher salary. Because more health care providers want highly trained professionals to assist in the diagnosis of disease, this degree makes graduates more desirable in the workplace.

Areas of Study

While courses vary between programs, many are considered core requirements for your degree. Some examples of coursework you may take while obtaining a degree in the clinical lab sciences are listed below.

• Basic Biology
• Cell Biology
• Microbiology
• Genetics
• Immunology
• Virology
• Hematology
• Math
• Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Career Opportunities

This degree opens doors to many different industries. The need for clinical laboratory technicians is increasing with the rise in health care issues being faced on a daily basis. Below is a list of some career fields that would be available to CLS students upon graduation. While this list is not comprehensive, it identifies the diversity of laboratories you can work for:

• Biomedical
• Diagnostic medical
• Biotechnology
• Pharmaceutical
• Government
• Private sector

What You Need to Know

In addition to required coursework, many programs require clinical lab rotations to complete your degree. This allows you to apply your coursework in a lab setting and get hands on experience before you enter the job market. Keep in mind that if you apply to an online degree program, you may still need to complete a lab rotation. Research the requirements of all the degree programs you apply to so that you understand exactly where your time will be spent when completing your degree.

Requirements

Most schools require transcripts and letters of recommendation in order for you to apply. While some programs may require a minimum ACT or SAT score as well as a minimum GPA, typically both educational aptitude and experience would be measured in determining whether you would be a good fit for the program. Recommendation letters by a former employee or teacher should be written that identifies you as a person committed to an aspect of healthcare. Experience or accreditation in a biological or medical field is certainly beneficial but not required for acceptance into the program.

Since degree programs vary, research the degree requirements of individual schools to ensure you obtain all the necessary forms and paperwork. You can contact the school admissions office or visit their websites to get a better understanding of the requirements of each school you apply to.

Accreditation

Accreditation for the clinical lab sciences is obtained through the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. Before selecting a program, always research the accreditations available for your degree.
www.naacls.org

Professional Organizations

In the health care field, becoming a member of professional organizations could not only help you in future career endeavors but also keep you up to date with important topics specific to your field. As someone interested in the clinical lab sciences, you may want to consider joining a professional organization. The American Society for Clinical Lab Science is the well-known and nationally recognized professional organization.
www.ascls.org/

Many organizations are available to join through the school you attend or the region you are located. Check with the school admissions office to find out what other organizations are available to you.