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November 24, 2009

 

Welcome to UTPA Clinical Laboratory Science

 Clinical Laboratory Science

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, health and wellness, organ transplantation and forensic investigation. It combines the rewards and challenges of both medicine and science.
Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS) play a vital role on the healthcare team working with pathologists, clinicians and other health care professionals to provide quality care.
 
Tests performed by clinical laboratory scientists require skill, knowledge and problem solving ability.  CLS professionals identify disease causing microorganisms, abnormalities in blood cells and blood chemistries and safely prepare and crossmatch blood for transfusion.  They use sophisticated biomedical instrumentation to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

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.  Demand for clinical laboratory scientists is high.  Currently, the country is facing a shortage of qualified laboratory personnel.  According to US Department of Labor, May 2006 survey, the median nationwide salary for clinical laboratory scientists was $50,550 per year.

 

 

 

 

1201 West University Drive, Edinburg, TX 78541
Tel: 956.318.5269 Fax: 956.318.5253

1201 W. University Drive Edinburg, TX 78539-2999
956/381-UTPA  1-866-441-UTPA
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