Clinical Laboratory Technician, AAS

Program Description

The Associate of Applied Science in Clinical Laboratory Technology provides the student with entry-level competence in the laboratory that would render him/her competitive for employment and/or advancement as well as allowing him/her to take the national (American Society of Clinical Pathologists, ASCP) certification examination for Medical Laboratory Technicians. Classroom instruction and clinical experiences prepare individuals to perform diagnostic tests and procedures under the supervision of medical technologists and pathologists. Students should note that some courses have prerequisites, which must be completed before enrolling into upper level courses and continuing in the program. This program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) and the American Medical Association (AMA). Although a terminal degree program, general education requirements as well as some of the technical courses may be transferable to a variety of baccalaureate programs.

Program Goals

• To enable students to acquire the general education competencies expected of an associate of applied science degree graduate
• To teach basic scientific and clinical concepts which will prepare students for entry-level as Medical Laboratory/Clinical Laboratory Technicians
• To provide students with an opportunity to develop the psychomotor skills necessary to function effectively in the clinical laboratory

Program Learning Outcomes

Students completing the Associate of Applied Science degree in Clinical Laboratory Technology will:

• Collect and process biological specimens for analysis.
• Observe safety regulations.
• Utilize laboratory computer systems to maintain patient records.
• Perform analytical tests on body fluids, cells and products.
• Monitor quality control within predetermined limits.
• Recognize factors that affect procedures and results and take appropriate action within predetermined limits when corrections are indicated.
• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance of equipment and instruments or refer to appropriate sources for repair.
• Relate laboratory findings to common disease processes.
• Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct (including confidentiality) and interpersonal communication skills with patients, laboratory personnel, other health care professionals, and with the public.
• Recognize the responsibilities of other laboratory and health care personnel, and interact with them with respect for their jobs and patient care.
• Apply basic scientific principles in learning new techniques and procedures.
• Attain a level of proficiency sufficient to orient new employees after employment.
• Recognize individual needs for continuing education as a function of growth and maintenance of professional competence and seek means of meeting these needs