Clinical Laboratory Science

As “illness investigators”, medical laboratory scientists use sophisticated instruments to analyze blood and other body tissue and fluids – providing the essential information used to make diagnoses and plan treatment. From the anthrax assault on postal workers to the emergence of SARS and Avian Flu, these professionals are involved in investigating events that make headlines all over the world. The extensive scientific knowledge and skill developed through CLS also provides the student with a distinct advantage should he or she decide to pursue further academic or professional studies.

The University of Kansas' one-of-a-kind program offers cutting-edge training and technology combined with real-world experience for students interested in clinical laboratory science. In KU’s 75-year accredited CLS program, students learn in a one-of-a kind dual-track program featuring molecular biotechnology and the traditional clinical concentrations. Because of the continued growth of the profession, students of KU's CLS program have a nearly 100 percent placement rate following graduation.

Students interested in clinical lab science should contact the a CLS adviser at the KU Medical Center early in their college work. The University of Kansas CLS program requires two years of preparatory college coursework (57 hours minimum) and two years of professional coursework in the CLS program at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, Kan. The program is open to students with BA, BS or BGS degrees who have completed the prerequisites.

Two Concentration Options: Molecular Biotechnology vs. Clinical

For molecular biotechnology students, the first 3 semesters in the clinical laboratory science program include traditional CLS courses, such as lectures and labs in clinical chemistry, microbiology and hematology. The last semester includes courses directly related to the molecular biotechnology concentration, beginning with intensive molecular biotechnology lab and lecture classes. Classwork is followed by 14 weeks of practicum that gives students in-depth work experience in the molecular biotechnology and molecular genetics field.

Upon completion of the four-year program, students will have a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Laboratory Science with a concentration in Molecular Biotechnology.

The CLS Department also offers a Master of Science in Molecular Biotechnology degree program for students interested in continuing their academic pursuits at the graduate level.

The KU Clinical Laboratory Science degree program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018 (773.714.8880). Documents relating to accreditation status are available at the department office by request. Information for students.