College of Science

Why study clinical laboratory science at Benedictine?

Clinical laboratory science is one of the most rapidly expanding branches of medical science with the demand for qualified clinical laboratory scientists far exceeding the number of trained people available. Because medical services are continuing to expand rapidly throughout the country, well trained people in this field will be assured positions for many years.

Benedictine University is one of the few schools in Illinois that offers a program in Clinical Laboratory Science. Our suburban location offers easy access to outstanding medical facilities in the Chicago area. Benedictine’s low student-to-faculty ratio allows you individualized attention.

What does the Clinical Laboratory Science program at Benedictine offer?

The program in Clinical Laboratory Science from Benedictine will prepare you to:

• Perform and supervise tests and procedures in the clinical laboratory.
• Recognize interpretations of laboratory tests and have knowledge of conditions affecting test results.
• Develop data that may be used by the physicians in determining the presence, extent, and as far as possible, the cause of disease.
• Become a certified clinical laboratory scientist by passing the national certifying examinations.

What careers are available with a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science?

When you are certified as a clinical lab science specialist

• Work in a clinical laboratory in hospitals, doctors’ offices, pharmaceutical companies, public health departments and research institutions.
• Work for a chemical supply company.
• Work as a sales representative for a pharmaceutical company.

 

How does the program work?

In the Clinical Laboratory Science program at Benedictine University, you will follow a three-year sequence of liberal arts and science courses. You are required to maintain a GPA of 2.8 or better. During your senior year, you will be eligible to complete a one calendar-year clinical program at a hospital affiliated with the University — Hines Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital in Hines, Ill. — where you will fulfill your clinical requirements. The application deadline is December 1.

Note: ONLY U.S. citizens may enter the Hines VA program.

When you have completed your clinical year (all grades must be “C” or better), you will earn a B.A. in Biology- Allied Health from Benedictine University. Upon completion of the Clinical Laboratory Science program, you will be eligible to take the certifying examinations administered by the Board of Registry of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists and the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel.