What Are the Core Courses of a Clinical Laboratory Science Degree?
A clinical laboratory science degree includes core courses in clinical chemistry, immunology and laboratory techniques. Here you'll find more information on of the core courses of a typical clinical laboratory science degree program. Read on for details pertaining to course topics.
Clinical Laboratory Science Course Overview
Central classes in clinical laboratory science programs often fall into various categories, such as foundational, clinical specializations and analysis/techniques. Analysis and techniques courses include subjects like immuno-hematology, coagulation, and urinalysis and body fluids.
Important Facts About Clinical Laboratory Science Programs
| Prerequisites | A high school diploma and standardized exam scores for a bachelor's, a related bachelor's, a personal statement, reference letters and Graduate Records Exam (GRE) scores for a master's. Some graduate programs may require more, such as certification or an interview. |
| Degree Levels | Bachelor's and master's |
| Online Availability | Partially and fully available online |
| Possible Careers | Laboratory supervisors, research scientists, biomedical device developers |
| Median Salary (2021) | $57,800 (medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians) |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031) | 7% (medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Foundation Courses
Introductory courses in clinical laboratory science degree programs are designed to teach students the basics of safety, ethics, laboratory mathematics, quality control, professionalism, certification, basic laboratory equipment and lab settings. An introductory course is intended to be one of the first classes a student takes in pursuit of his or her degree.
Clinical Chemistry
The foundations and methods of clinical chemistry tests are explored. Students have opportunities to learn about chemical laboratory techniques, laboratory safety procedures, proteins and lipids. In addition, these courses discuss the importance of test results, physiological bases for tests and testing procedures.
Clinical Microbiology
Such courses might teach supply students with knowledge of the practical application, pathogenesis and theory of the discipline. Reporting procedures, identification, collection, susceptibility testing and setup may also be covered.
Immunology
As they study this course, students may discuss the basic applications and systems of immunology. Course topics could include principles of antigen-antibody reactions, the immune response and principles of serological methods.
Clinical Hematology
These students examine normal function and diseases associated with blood, including red and white blood cell maturation sequences and normal and abnormal morphology. The course also teaches students the application and theory of routine and special hematology processes.
Immuno-Hematology
This is an advanced course that might provide knowledge of blood antigens and antibodies. Students could learn how to conduct blood banking techniques such as antibody screens, blood group and Rh typing, absorption procedures, cross matching and antibody identification.
Coagulation
Courses in coagulation focus on the techniques, applications and theories of coagulation. Clinical laboratory science students might also learn laboratory practices that rely on routinely-operated manual and semi-automatic procedures.
Urinalysis and Body Fluids
When studying this course, program enrollees could examine the physiology and anatomy of the kidney. The chemical, physical and microscopic assessment of cerebro-spinal fluid, urine and other bodily fluids might also be explored.