Careers in Clinical Laboratory Science and Research

Clinical laboratory science and research is about tests that are performed in laboratories. Typical roles include technicians, scientists and researchers. Primarily, this field adds immense value to health care discipline by conducting diagnostic tests and verifying them against established medical procedures. Doctors’ diagnoses depend on this field for identifying illnesses accurately and prescribing treatment.

The discipline is an amalgamation of chemistry, biology, medicine and of course, problem solving. Specialized procedures and medical equipment are used to establish the reasons for illnesses. Moreover, to process tests effectively, reagents, chemicals and lab equipment are applied primarily for testing body fluids and tissues. Examples are blood and urine samples. Specializations in this discipline include hematology, bacteriology, clinical chemistry or pathology, chemistry, immunohematology, immunology or serology, microbiology and urine analysis. There are several formal programs available in this branch such as Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate degrees along side diplomas and certifications. These programs are also available through dual mode i.e., campus and online. However, the courses being what they are, lab experience is crucial and as such, practical components and experience in this field is an important aspect for career opportunities. Additionally, license requirements apply.

Career opportunities are bright in this field with 14% growth in jobs forecasted through 2016 for typical roles [technologists, technicians, scientists and researchers] in this discipline by Bureau of Labor Statistics. Work settings include hospitals, outpatient clinics, physicians’ offices, research laboratories and government agencies. Average earnings of clinical laboratory technicians were $34,270 whereas it was $51,720 for clinical laboratory technologists in 2007.

Argosy and Kaplan Universities are premier institutions with quality programs. Everest and Sanford Brown Colleges offer innovative and enabling programs designed to propel students in health sciences’ careers. Rasmussen College provides quality practical education ensuring that students are at the forefront of the industry.