Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) (selective)

Prepare to play a vital role in patient care by performing a wide range of clinical laboratory procedures used in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. The CLS curriculum provides general education courses and introductory CLS courses in the first year, then career-related courses and practical experience in the second year. The first year courses are open to students wishing to enter the CLS program. The second year CLS courses are restricted to those selected for the CLS program. Clinical laboratory technicians analyze specimens for bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms; analyze the chemical content of body fluids; match blood for transfusions; and test for drug levels in the blood to show how a patient is responding to treatment. Clinical laboratory technicians also collect and prepare specimens for analysis. The important laboratory results generated by this testing are then analyzed and relayed to physicians. The modern clinical laboratory uses increasingly sophisticated automation interfaced with computer technology. The CLS program is in the process of seeking accreditation from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Graduates of the CLS program will be eligible to take the national certification examination, such as those offered by the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology or the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel.

Application deadline: The application deadline for the second year of the curriculum is March 1, 2008 for clinical courses starting fall 2008. This selective enrollment program requires additional application components. The selection process is competitive and space is very limited (see page 12 of the college catalog).

Campus format: Pre-CLS courses (year one) are offered at the Gardner Campus; clinical CLS courses (year two) are offered in conjunction with Heywood Hospital laboratory. CLS is a day only, full-time, selective program. However, CLS101 and 103 maybe scheduled at night.

Requirement for consideration: Applicants must meet certain academic standards. See page 12 of the college catalog for specific details or refer to the program application available on our website or through the admissions office.

Helpful hints: Success in this field requires attention to detail, flexibility to multitask and change tasks when interrupted, a strong concern for order, sound judgment and ability to conduct laboratory procedures accurately and when under pressure.

Transfer options: Consult the program director to discuss transfer and advanced career options.

Special requirements: Any student is eligible to enroll in courses in the first year of the curriculum. Only students accepted into the CLS program will enroll in CLS courses in the second year. CLS applicants must complete first year requirements before applying for the CLS program. Applicants must meet all requirements for consideration before entering the program. Students must meet technical standards (see page 83 of the college catalog) with or without accommodations and additional requirements including immunizations, liability insurance, and a Criminal/Sexual Offender Records Information (CORI/SORI) check (see page 12). Students must maintain a C+ (77 percent) or better in all CLS/BIO/CHE/MAT courses to maintain good standing. The second year of the CLS program is a full-time day curriculum. All students in selective majors must participate in the Massachusetts Community College Health Insurance or provide accurate information regarding comparable coverage. Drug testing may be mandatory at some MWCC clinical instruction sites.

*BIO109 or 115 is strongly encouraged.

Career options: Clinical laboratory scientists may work in hospital laboratories; physicians’ offices; private clinics; commercial and research laboratories; pharmaceutical, industrial and biotechnology firms; as well as government and public health facilities.

Earning potential:$40,123 to $50,179 per year.

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Information about Selective Admissions programs

Program Competencies

Upon graduation from this program students shall have demonstrated the ability to:

1. Procure laboratory test samples in an efficient, timely manner.
2. Produce accurate laboratory test results within acceptable limits of quality control.
3. Correlate and interpret laboratory test data.
4. Disseminate laboratory test information to clinicians in a timely manner.
5. Consult with more experienced team members when necessary.
6. Exhibit knowledge of laboratory tests and standards.
7. Exhibit basic knowledge of professional ethics, laws and regulations.
8. Demonstrate continued competency in the field at least annually.
9. Maintain membership in a professional organization.
10. Perform multi-functional tasks.
11. Actively participate in continuing education.

Technical Standards*

*general information about technical standards and accommodation.

Students entering the CLS program must be able to demonstrate the ability to:

1. Comprehend textbook material at a college level.
2. Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format.
3. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.
4. Stand for a minimum of two hours.
5. Walk for a minimum of six hours, not necessarily consecutively.
6. Stoop, bend, and twist for a minimum of 30 minutes at a time and be able to repeat this activity at frequent intervals.
7. Differentiate colors as assessed by standard color blindness evaluation.
8. Differentiate by touch, hotness/coldness, wetness/dryness, hardness/softness.
9. Use the small muscle dexterity necessary to do such tasks as gloving, gowning, and operating controls on laboratory instrumentation.
10. Respond to spoken words, monitor signals, and instrument alarms.
11. Identify behaviors that would endanger a person’s life or safety and intervene quickly in a crisis situation with an appropriate solution.
12. Remain calm, rational, decisive, and in control at all times, especially during emergency situations.
13. Exhibit social skills appropriate to professional interactions.
14. Maintain cleanliness and personal grooming consistent with close personal contact.
15. Function without causing harm to self or others if under the influence of prescription or over-the-counter medication.

Information about Selective Admissions programs