Academic and Clinical Experiences
Interdisciplinary and problem-oriented, with emphasis on the basic sciences and standards of contemporary clinical laboratory science, the curriculum includes academic and clinical experiences.
Academic work during the junior year is designed to provide a strong background in biochemistry, microbiology, and immunology. The summer and fall terms of the senior year provide theory and laboratory experience in clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology, and hemostasis. During the balance of the senior year, the student's clinical education encompasses rotations through the various clinical specialty areas of affiliated hospital laboratories. The department is affiliated with Memorial Medical Center and St. John's Hospital in Springfield, Methodist Medical Center in Illinois in Peoria, Decatur Memorial Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital in Decatur.
The clinical experience is under the joint supervision of faculty at the University of Illinois at Springfield and practicing professionals in affiliated hospital laboratories. Clinical education is coupled with didactic courses offered at UIS. Enhancement experiences are available in areas of interest to the student.
Criminal background checks are required before clinical rotations. A background check that is not "clear" precludes rotations at some hospitals and prevents employment at most healthcare facilities.
Assessment
Since the program includes laboratory work done under professional supervision, the degree candidate not only must satisfy the customary expectations of academic work but also must meet the high-quality standards demanded of a professional medical technologist/clinical laboratory scientist. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00. Clinical laboratory science students are required to maintain a grade of C or better in all required courses.
As a closure requirement for graduation, students must pass a comprehensive program examination covering all aspects of Clinical Laboratory Science. However, issuing of the degree is not contingent upon passing any type of external certification or licensure examination.
Health and Essential Requirements
CLS students must also be able to meet the Health and Essential Requirements outlined in the CLS Student Handbook and admissions packet.
Individual Professional Liability Insurance Requirement
Individual professional liability insurance is required of each student and will be provided by the CLS Program.
