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Endless Opportunities - A Clinical Laboratory Science Program that inspires

Offering bachelor of science degrees in laboratory science and medical laboratory science, Auburn University’s clinical laboratory science program is exceptional in that, unlike other programs, students gain exposure to numerous courses of study including clinical microbiology, hematology, clinical biochemistry, blood bank, and clinical parasitology.

“Auburn students are very well prepared for their clinical training and always do well on their certification exam because we offer exposure to these courses prior to their clinical training,” said Kat Milly West, director of the clinical laboratory sciences program in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Additionally, most programs offer approximately three chemistry courses, and at Auburn, students receive eight chemistry courses—leaving them prepared for a variety of careers and fields of study.

For added value, students who receive a degree in laboratory science have an option to complete a 12-month clinical training program and receive a second degree in medical laboratory science.

“Job opportunities for laboratory and medical laboratory scientists are endless,” said West. “As a bonus, students have the opportunity to shape their future by finding their niche in the field and make a quiet difference in people’s lives.”

Career options for someone with a degree in medical laboratory science are numerous, but typically, one would work in a clinical setting, including supervising a department, acting as lab manager or instrumentation specialist, or serving as a sales representative for laboratory instrumentation, among others.

Many students decide to continue their education and receive a doctorate or attend professional school, while others work in health care administration or even forensic medicine.

“In medical technology there is always a puzzle to be solved, so it is a natural fit to pursue a career in forensic sciences,” said West. “Medical technology is ideal for someone who is meticulous, detail-oriented, and very well organized. There is also a place in medical technology for people with unique talents. For example, one alumna is now a medical illustrator, which allows her to combine her love of art with her love of science.”

The national honor society for clinical laboratory sciences majors is Lambda Tau. The organization allows students to envision the many career paths available to them through guest speakers, field trips to clinical settings like the Centers for Disease Control, and a study abroad program in Africa.

For more information on the clinical laboratory sciences program, contact West via email at mailto:millyka@auburn.edu and set up an appointment.

 

 

Last Updated: 10/12/2018