Program Overview
The clinical laboratory science degree at the University of Kansas prepares experienced laboratory professionals for expanded roles in advanced clinical practice, leadership, and applied research. This post-baccalaureate doctoral program is designed for certified medical laboratory scientists who seek to deepen their expertise in diagnostic interpretation, clinical consultation, and health care systems improvement. Graduates of the clinical laboratory science degree are equipped to bridge the gap between the clinical laboratory and patient care teams, contributing directly to diagnostic decision-making and improved health outcomes.
This degree in clinical laboratory science builds on prior professional experience and emphasizes advanced clinical knowledge, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice. Students strengthen their ability to interpret complex laboratory data, evaluate test utilization, and support clinicians in selecting and understanding diagnostic procedures. Through a curriculum grounded in translational science and health care quality, the clinical laboratory science degree prepares graduates to advance laboratory medicine in evolving health care environments.
In addition to clinical expertise, the program develops competencies in leadership, health policy, and outcomes research. Students enrolled in the clinical laboratory science degree gain the tools to assess laboratory performance metrics, design quality improvement initiatives, and implement system-level changes that enhance patient safety. By integrating clinical consultation with laboratory science, the program prepares graduates for high-impact roles across health care systems.
The program is designed for working laboratory professionals: core coursework is completed online and may be pursued full- or part-time, while the final year consists of a full-time, immersive clinical residency at an affiliated health care institution.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Clinical Laboratory Science, DCLSKU School of Health Professions
The Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science is part of the School of Health Professions, where top-notch training programs and research put our graduates in high demand.Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the clinical laboratory science degree program will be able to:
- Provide expert consultation on test selection and interpretation to support clinical decision-making.
- Provide expert consultation to health care providers regarding test selection, interpretation, and clinical relevance.
- Lead quality improvement and test utilization initiatives within health care systems.
- Conduct, evaluate, and translate research into laboratory and clinical practice.
- Integrate evidence-based decision-making to improve patient outcomes and health care value.
- Demonstrate leadership in laboratory operations, policy development, and interprofessional collaboration.
What Careers are Possible with a Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science?
With a doctor of clinical laboratory science credential, graduates are prepared for advanced roles that combine clinical expertise, consultation, and leadership. The clinical laboratory science degree positions professionals to work at the intersection of diagnostics and patient care, often collaborating directly with physicians, pharmacists, and other health care providers.
According to Lightcast, professionals with advanced laboratory training experience strong demand across health care systems. Typical clinical laboratory science degree jobs may include:
- Laboratory Director
- Clinical Laboratory Consultant
- Clinical Research Scientist
- health care Quality and Outcomes Specialist
- Medical Laboratory Educator
Graduates may also pursue continued scholarly work or leadership roles within health care organizations. While this program is practice-focused, individuals interested in intensive research pathways may explore options such as a Ph.D. in medical laboratory science or related biomedical sciences field.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. For detailed information on tuition, scholarships, and loan options, visit the program financial aid page.Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the clinical laboratory science degree program:
- Bachelor’s degree in an applicable field (e.g., biochemistry, biology, cell biology, clinical laboratory science, microbiology, molecular biosciences etc.).
- A NAACLS-accredited MLS/MT program must be completed (or equivalent). Applicants holding MLS(ASCP) certification through Route 2 are eligible to apply if having completed a NAACLS-accredited or military MLT program.
- Official transcripts from all universities attended
- Cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Professional certification as a generalist from the American Society of Clinical Pathology Board of Certification: MLS(ASCP)CM or MLS(ASCPi)CM. MLS(ASCP) is accepted with proof of continuing education.
- Two years of post-certification, full-time experience in a U.S. clinical laboratory as a medical laboratory scientist (or comparable role).
- Good physical and mental health.
- Background check and drug screening.
For detailed admission policies, visit the KU Medical Center.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
The clinical laboratory science degree emphasizes applied clinical learning, leadership development, and scholarly inquiry. Students engage in case-based discussions, advanced diagnostics coursework, and a mentored capstone research project culminating in a manuscript suitable for publication. Before advancing to the residency year, students must pass a comprehensive qualifying examination demonstrating command of the clinical laboratory science body of knowledge.
The one-year clinical residency places students full-time at affiliated health care institutions, where they work alongside physicians, nurses, and pharmacists to provide guidance on laboratory test selection, result interpretation, and utilization — directly contributing to patient care.
Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science Sample Courses
Students enrolled in the clinical laboratory science degree complete advanced coursework that may include:
- Principles of Healthcare Education
- Advanced Molecular Diagnostics
- Evidence Based Practice
- Advanced Hematology
- Advanced Immunology and Transplant
Coursework is complemented by clinical application experiences and scholarly projects that integrate diagnostic expertise with health care improvement. For a complete and current list of required and elective courses, refer to the KU Catalog.
Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications for the fall semester must be received by March 1 for first consideration.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in three years.
Why choose KU’s clinical laboratory science degree?
KU’s program offers a cutting-edge curriculum, world-class faculty, and extensive research opportunities. Students engage in advanced laboratory techniques, data interpretation, and evidence-based decision-making to address complex health care challenges.