Clinical Laboratory Scientists are LIFESAVERS! 80% of all medical decisions are based on laboratory test results generated by Clinical Laboratory Scientists (formerly known as Medical Technologists). They apply science and sophisticated medical technology to medicine to provide accurate information on the biochemicals and cells in blood and body fluids, identify infectioncausing microorganisms, and perform transfusion and transplantation testing. These laboratory results are essential to accurate diagnoses, monitoring of diseases, and establishing effective treatment.
CLS graduates are employed primarily in hospital laboratories, but also enjoy career opportunities in research, forensics, biotechnology, toxicology, medical research, health care administration, pharmaceuticals and other industries. Students who are interested in medical, dental, veterinary or graduate school are well advised to consider earning a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science. The degree program provides an excellent foundation in diagnostic medicine and pathophysiology. The many Clinical Laboratory Science graduates who have pursued further education enthusiastically attest to the intellectual and experiential advantages they enjoyed over their fellow medical, dental, or graduate students.
The Bachelor of Health Science in Clinical Laboratory Science is designed to facilitate students’ acquisition of knowledge, analytical skills and technical expertise in clinical chemistry, medical microbiology, immunohematology, hematology and clinical immunology. The traditional degree program includes two years of general education requirements and biology and chemistry prerequisites. Students apply for the Clinical Laboratory Science program in their sophomore year and enter during their junior year for two years of specialized study including a clinical practicum at an affiliated Louisville-area hospital. The Department of Clinical Laboratory Science also offers a visiting student program, a medical sciences track for students interested in medical school and an accelerated second-degree option for those who already have a bachelor’s degree. Upon successful completion of the degree program, graduates are eligible for national Board examinations.
For information about any of the curriculum options, contact us at cls@bellarmine.edu or
502.452.8357.
Admission Requirements
A minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
A minimum science-math grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Official transcripts for all college course work.
An application for admission to the Clinical Laboratory Science degree program, two letters of recommendation and personal statement. (Note: admission to Bellarmine University does not automatically admit a student into the Clinical Laboratory Science Program.)
A personal interview, if requested by the CLS Admissions Committee.
Essential Functions for Admission and Retention
Since a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science attests to the mastery of knowledge and skills, graduates must possess the essential knowledge and skills to function in a broad variety of clinical situations and render a wide spectrum of patient care in a safe and effective manner.
The Department of Clinical Laboratory Science faculty has therefore specified nonacademic
criteria, Essential Functions for Admission and Retention, which all applicants/students are expected to meet in order to participate in the Clinical Laboratory Science program. These criteria include the following five categories: (1) observation; (2) communication; (3) motor function; (4) intellectual-conceptual, integrative, and quantitative abilities; and (5) behavioral and social attributes. All accepted students will be required to sign a statement certifying that they can meet the essential functions.
A copy of the essential functions will be sent to each applicant with an offer of admissions. Additionally, a copy may be obtained from the Department of Clinical Laboratory Science office in 108 Pasteur Hall.
Program Start Dates
Fall and Spring
Clinical Laboratory Science Program Accreditation
The Bachelor of Health Science in Clinical Laboratory Science is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science, 8410 Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 670, Chicago, IL 60631-3415. Telephone: 773.714.8880; Fax: 773.714.8886; Email: naaclsinfo@naacls.org.
