Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS)
A Clinical/Medical Laboratory is a facility that runs medical lab tests, quality checks, analysis, and refinement of samples, instruments, and results. The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) and Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT) are the Clinical Lab (CL) professionals who focus on these, aiming to improve accuracy, precision, and outcome.
The CL professionals are knowledgeable in a wide variety of subjects that allow them to excel in their field, that revolve around Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Immunology, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology. The aim is to identify biological markers, in which blood, saliva, DNA, and other biological samples are collected and processed. With a growing population, there will always be a demand for CL professionals.
CL members can work in a wide variety of settings; Private Companies, Public Labs, Health Agencies, and Medical Facilities. Some test samples that CL members work on/with include:
- Infectious Diseases (Hepatitis, HIV, MRSA, etc.)
- Cancer (Leukemia, Solid Tumors, Melanoma)
- Pharmacogenetics (Specific Gene Influence on Medication)
- Identity Testing (Combat Casualties, Paternal Testing, Crime Scene Evidence)
Below you can find the difference between the CL members. This page has a focus on Clinical Laboratory Scientist, but a Clinical Lab Technician works in tandem with the CLS.
CLT is the entry-level role of the CL Team. The technician is more involved with:
- Collection, Processing, and Analysis of Biological Samples
- Performance of Lab Procedures
- Maintenance of Lab Instruments
- Analysis of Results
In order to become a CLT, you will need to pursue an Associate's Degree or have sufficient experience with lab instruments/protocol to hold this role.
CLS is the more experienced role of the CL Team. The CLS has more extensive knowledge than a CLT, which allows them to perform CLT tasks along with:
- Evaluation / Interpretation of Results
- Consultations
- Development of New Test Methods
- Conducting Research
In order to become a CLS, you will need to pursue a Bachelor's Degree. Few CLS B.S. degrees exist. More commonly, postbacc certificates exist to certify those who already have a degree in a biological science (Biology, Biochemistry, etc).
Clinical Laboratory Scientist Prerequisites
NOTE: CSUSB does not offer a CLS educational program/Bachelor's degree. Information is for pre-health advising purposes.
Specific prerequisite courses can vary by school
Always double-check the website of each medical school you are applying to for specific requirements. Please review the CSUSB Catalog as a guide to completing prerequisites at CSUSB.
| Prerequisites | CSUSB Courses |
|---|---|
Biology: One Year or Two Semesters of General Biology with Lab One Semester of Microbiology w/ Lab One Semester of Human Anatomy and Physiology w/ Lab |
BIOL 2010 and BIOL 2020 BIOL 3200 BIOL 2230 + BIOL 2240 |
Chemistry: One Year or Two Semesters of General Chemistry w/ Lab One Semester of Quantitative Analysis w/ Lab |
CHEM 2100 & 2100L and CHEM 2200 & 2200L CHEM 3200 |
Math: One year or two semesters of Calculus and/or Statistics. Students must place/test into MATH 2210 (Calculus I) OR take MATH 1401 (Pre-calculus) before MATH 2210. |
MATH 2210 (Calculus) and/or MATH 1201 (Statistics) BIOL 5050 (Biostatistics) |
Physics: One Year or Two Semesters of Physics with Lab |
PHYS 2000 & 2000L and PHYS 2010 & 2010L OR PHYS 2500 & 2500L and PHYS 2510 & 2510L |
CLT/CLS Programs in California
A Post-Baccalaureate (often referred to as "postbacc") is a program intended for individuals who have already obtained a B.S. / B.A. degree. For the programs below, the major does not matter so long as you get the necessary prerequisites done. In the end, these postbacc programs will give you a certificate of completion, in which you will be eligible for exams / licensing.
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (Colton)
- California State University, Dominguez Hills
- California State University, Los Angeles
- Eisenhower Medical Center (Rancho Mirage)
- San Francisco State University
- San Jose State University
- Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (Goleta)
- Scripps Health Clinical Laboratory (San Diego)
CLT/CLS Societies
ASCLS is a 9,000 member-strong society that contains lab professionals, students, and educators who aim for high-standard practice and representation in legislation through grassroot efforts. See the website linked if interested in being involved!
AMT is a member-based organization that credentials and supports individuals who are eligible through work-based experience, prior learning, and competency-based learning. They also ensure high standards in terms of competence and healthcare delivery.
Certifications Include:
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Laboratory Scientist & Technician
- Phlebotomy Technician
- Molecular Diagnostic Technologist
- Medical Laboratory Assistant
- Medical Administrative Specialist
- Patient Care Technician
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Assisting Radiography
- Allied Health Instructor
- Certified Laboratory Consultant
NAACLS is an accrediting agency that allows preospective scientists to find certified programs for not only for CLT/CLS, but also for Pathology Assistant and Histotechnician (in California, listing as of 2026).