Clinical Laboratory Sciences

The Profession

What they do: Clinical laboratory scientists (CLS) evaluate test results and correlate results with other laboratory data, playing a significant role on the healthcare team in diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of patients. A CLS performs complex procedures in areas like hematology, chemistry, virology, and microbiology, while conducting a variety of laboratory tests on blood, body fluids, and tissues.

Where they work: The range of potential work settings is growing to include: hospitals and clinic laboratories, commercial firms, research facilities, veterinary clinics, and industrial laboratories. Employment opportunities are expected to increase as well in all areas of clinical laboratory practice, such as molecular diagnostics. There are a wide variety of opportunities within and outside the traditional hospital setting.

Read about where the U of M CLS alumni are employed and what they do.

Is this Profession a Fit for You?

A prospective CLS should develop capabilities in problem-solving, accuracy, working well under pressure, diligence, written and oral communication, and organization. It is critically important for a CLS to be committed to the profession, and to enjoy scientific exploration and investigation.

The University of Minnesota CLS program cites both essential functions and a job description, offering you some hints at what will be needed in this profession, which is a great way to see if this program is a fit for you both personally and professionally.

Education and Prerequisites

Clinical Laboratory Science is an undergraduate degree program at the University of Minnesota. Students complete prerequisites and then apply to the program for admission. The CLS degree is offered at both the Twin Cities campus and the Rochester campus.  

Having previous laboratory or research experience is advantageous when applying to the program and will allow you to gain a better sense of working in a laboratory environment.

The University also offers a masters degree in CLS, for those with a baccalaureate degree in basic sciences or Clinical Laboratory Science.

Prepare to Apply

Applicants to the baccalaureate CLS program need to be familiar with the admission requirements of the program. Students first take prerequisite courses and then enter the program at the beginning of their junior year, to complete program requirements and other needed courses required for the degree.