The Profession

Clinical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology is a profession in which theoretical knowledge of biology and chemistry is applied in the diagnosis and treatment of disease, maintenance of health, organ transplantation and forensic investigation.  The Clinical Laboratory Scientist or Medical Technologist typically has a baccalaureate degree while the clinical laboratory technician or medical laboratory technician has an associate degree.  Both individuals have received special training in order to perform laboratory procedures in the areas of hematology, microbiology, immunology, blood banking, clinical chemistry and urinalysis.  The clinical laboratory scientist is expected to perform more complex procedures and assume greater responsibility for management and education functions related to the clinical laboratory.  Both the Clinical Laboratory Scientist and the Clinical Laboratory Technician are vital members of the quality health care team.

The majority of clinical laboratory scientists or medical technologists work in hospital laboratories.  Other employment opportunities exist in physician office laboratories, research centers, public health agencies, blood centers, forensic or crime laboratories, veterinary laboratories, medical sales, pharmaceutical companies, the food industry, and other commercial organizations.  This field provides an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy science and would like to work in an area of health care.  Many biology and chemistry majors choose to enroll in the clinical laboratory science program because it provides additional employment opportunities.