Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology (CLS/MT) Training Program

Overview

The Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology (CLS/MT) Training Program is a full-time, one-year educational program that leads to a career in diagnostic laboratory medicine. In the learning environments of the University of California Irvine Medical Center, participants acquire the academic knowledge, technical skills, and critical thinking experiences necessary to become proficient healthcare professionals. Participants put their scientific knowledge into practice, and are prepared to perform laboratory procedures related to patient diagnosis and treatment.

Upon successful completion of the program, participants are awarded the Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology Certificate and are prepared to take the exam leading to licensure as a California CLS and certification as an MLS through the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

This program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS - 5600 N. River Rd., Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018-5119), and approved by the California Department of Public Health and the UCI Allied Health Committee.

Who Should Enroll

Individuals with a strong interest in laboratory science and who are seeking healthcare careers will be interested in the CLS/MT training program. Program graduates are currently in high demand and opportunities for career advancement are widely available. Clinical laboratory scientists may also pursue careers in fields that include laboratory management, education, forensic science, research and development, and technical sales/support.

Career Insight

Occupational summary for medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in the US.

324,712

Annual Job Openings
(2019)

13%

Projected Growth
(2019-2029)

^$52k

Median Salary
(Highly experienced workers can earn up to $80k)

Program Benefits

Learn the theories and principles of laboratory medicine

Acquire techniques to perform diagnostic procedures and operate sophisticated instrumentation

Relate the clinical significance of laboratory procedures to patient diagnosis and treatment

Utilize principles and practices of quality assurance

Develop skills in communication, problem solving, educational methods, research and management related to a clinical laboratory

Engage in a dynamic clinical environment, further developing professional behaviors

Certificate Candidacy

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements: Baccalaureate degree (biological science, biochemistry, or microbiology preferred) and completion of the following: courses in Biological Science (18 semester units or equivalent), courses in Chemistry (16 semester units or equivalent), Physics (at least 3 semester units or equivalent, including principles of light and electricity), and a college-level mathematics course. Required prerequisite courses include: Medical Microbiology, Immunology, Hematology, Biochemistry and Analytical Chemistry (Quantitative Analysis).

Program Admission

The CLS/MT program is offered once a year, beginning in the Fall Quarter. Admission to the program is by separate application only. Applicants selected for admission will then be registered into the program courses through UCI Division of Continuing Education.

Certificate Eligibility and Requirements

A digital certificate is awarded upon completion of the program’s required courses: Phlebotomy, Clinical Chemistry, Medical Microbiology, Hematology/Coagulation, Transfusion Services, and Professional Practice with a grade point average of "B" or better. Registration is not available for individual courses.

Advisory Committee

Luis M. de la Maza, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Medical Director, Medical Microbiology
Medical Director, CLS/MT Training Program
University of California, Irvine

Ellena M. Peterson, Ph.D., CLS, MT (ASCP)
Director, CLS Training Program
Professor Emeritus, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
University of California, Irvine

English Proficiency Requirement
All certificate programs at UCI Division of Continuing Education (classroom and online formats) require professional-level English language proficiency in listening and note-taking, reading comprehension and vocabulary, written expression, and oral presentation.