Clinical Laboratory Scientists (previously referred to as Medical Technologist) perform laboratory tests which play a vital role in the maintenance of health and in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. They are knowledgeable in all areas of routine procedures as well as those specialized tests that require more complex techniques. They work with a variety of complex precision instruments and computers. Clinical Laboratory Scientists examine blood tissue and other body fluids to assist the physician in the proper diagnosis and treatment of the patient. Tests include analysis for chemical make-up, coagulation studies, culturing to ascertain the presence of pathogenic organisms, transfusion testing, hematologic and immunologic studies. Clinical Laboratory Scientists have a broad scientific foundation which allows them to understand theoretical concepts underlying laboratory tests, correlate tests and various disease processes, and make independent decisions concerning the quality of laboratory results. Responsibilities often include education, research and development, and supervision of subordinates. Clinical Laboratory Scientists must possess the desire to be of service to others, and must also demonstrate the highest degree of integrity, honesty, confidentiality, and responsibility. The ability to work under stress, while maintaining manual dexterity and logical thinking is essential. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist must also exhibit qualities of neatness and organizational ability. To be successful in the clinical laboratory, an interest in and aptitude for science and mathematics is required.

To become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist by the traditional route, a student must earn a baccalaureate degree in either Clinical Laboratory Science or a related field from an accredited 4 year college or university. Clinical coursework in a hospital laboratory will also be required. Most students will choose to work toward the degree in Clinical Laboratory Science and will then take clinical coursework in a hospital setting during their senior year. Those earning a degree in biology or chemistry, for example, may choose to take clinical coursework after graduation (during year 5) and may have the option of applying those credit hours toward a second baccalaureate degree. This option varies with the policies of the degree granting institutions. Upon completion of the degree coursework and clinical education, students are eligible to challenge either of two nationally recognized certification examinations.

• 4 year Bachelors Degree
• Masters Degree

Many scientists are employed in hospital laboratories, but job opportunities are increasing in physician's offices, reference and research laboratories, industry, forensic medicine and state and local health departments. Promotion into education, management or administrative positions is possible with additional education. As in most occupations, replacement needs will be the main source of job openings. Employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005 creating additional job openings. The rapidly growing older population will spur demand, since older people generally have more medical problems. Technological changes will have two opposite effects on employment. New, more powerful diagnostic tests will encourage more testing and spur employment. However, advances in laboratory automation and simpler tests, which make it possible for each worker to perform more tests, should slow growth. Research and development efforts are targeted at simplifying routine testing procedures so that nonlaboratory personnel - physicians and patients in particular - can perform tests now done in laboratories. Also, robots may prepare specimens, a job now done by technologists and technicians. Fastest growth is expected in independent medical laboratories, as hospitals continue to send them a greater share of their testing. Rapid growth is also expected in offices and clinics of physicians. Slower growth is expected in hospitals.

Same as Clinical Laboratory Technician

$40,510

• Cox Health Systems School Of Medical Technology
• Jewish Hospital College Nursing & Allied Health
• Kansas State University Health Professions Advising Office
• Lincoln University Department Of Natural Science And Mathematics
• Maryville University
• Missouri Western State College
• Northwest Missouri State University
• Rockhurst University
• Southeast Missouri State University
• Southwest Missouri State University
• St. John's Mercy Medical Center School Of Clinical Laboratory Science
• St. Louis University Doisy School Of Health Sciences
• University Of Kansas School Of Allied Health
• University Of Missouri - Kansas City School Of Biological Sciences
• Wichita State University College Of Health Professions
• William Jewell College

• Aft Healthcare
• American Assoc. Of Bioanalysts Board Of Registry
• American Association For Clinical Chemistry, Inc.
• American Society For Clinical Laboratory Science
• American Society For Clinical Pathology
• Ascp Board Of Registry
• National Accrediting Agency For Clinical Laboratory Sciences
• National Association For Medical Equipment Services