Clinical Lab Science

Description of the Profession

Clinical Laboratory Scientists (also called Medical Technologists) perform diverse and complex laboratory analyses on biological samples from patients. They combine theoretical knowledge and technical skills to provide quality test results that are used for making diagnostic and therapeutic decisions. Tasks performed include analyses of body fluids, evaluation of cellular components of blood, preparation of blood components for patient therapy, and identification of microorganisms.

Skills and Characteristics Important to this Profession

Potential candidates for a career in clinical lab science should enjoy microscopic work, have a strong chemistry background, and be skillful and competent with their hands. Attention to detail is important to patients and the physicians treating them.

Description of the Indiana University Clinical Lab Science Program

The IU School of Medicine Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (located in Indianapolis) offers program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science. The course of study requires the applicant to complete three years of prerequisite work equaling 90 credit hours at Indiana University Bloomington (or another campus or college) and one year of professional and clinical work at the Indiana University Medical Center in Indianapolis.

Other Accredited Programs

For lists of accredited clinical lab science programs, see the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. Refer also to the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

Additional Notes and Recommendations

There is a nationwide shortage of this critically important profession!

Job Shadowing / Observation

Job shadowing and observation is the best way for you to get a first hand look at a given profession and determine whether or not it is one you wish to look into further. HPPLC advisors strongly encourage you to take advantage of any such opportunities that arise during high school. If you are already in college, arrange shadowing / observation experiences as soon as possible.

Refer to the PDF document below for additional information about shadowing and observation.

Further Information

Refer to the HPPLC Clinical Lab Science handout for more detailed information about prerequisite courses, application and admission information, and for additional resources.

If you are interested in other health professions that are advised through HPPLC, we encourage you to sign up for the HPPLC email list associated with your program(s) of interest. Feel free to sign up for more than one list. Also refer to the HPPLC handout, Health Professions Descriptions.