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What is Clinical Laboratory Science?

Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) professionals generate, interpret and report test results vital in making a timely and accurate diagnosis. Attention to detail and problem solving skills are highly valued in this profession.

Some CLS professionals work as generalists, which means they work in all areas of laboratory medicine including:

• chemistry
• hematology
• immunology
• microbiology
• blood banking

Others specialize in just one of these laboratory disciplines. CLS professionals are found in hospitals, commercial laboratories, blood banks, public health agencies, pharmaceutical research, forensic science and other businesses that generate laboratory data.

CLS professionals are credentialed. They may obtain certification by either of two nationally recognized agencies.

• The American Society for Clinical Pathology offers its Board of Registry (BOR) exam.
  This credential requires a bachelor's degree (4 years) and successful performance on the BOR certification exam. Those certified by the BOR use the professional title of Medical Technologist or MT(ASCP).
• The National Certification Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA) also offers certification examination to those holding a bachelor's degree. Those passing the NCA exam use the professional title of Clinical Laboratory Scientist or CLS. MTs or CLSs are experts in medical testing who interact with all members of the healthcare team that rely on accurate and timely results to enhance patient care.

The Clinical Laboratory Science Program at Illinois State University is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 8410 West Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 670, Chicago, IL 60631-3415. Phone 773/714-8880.

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