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Welcome, and thank you for your interest in the Department of Clinical ScienceÌý at California State University Dominguez Hills.

Clinical laboratory professionals play an essential role in modern healthcare. Advances in molecular diagnostics, laboratory automation, precision medicine, and diagnostic technologies have expanded both the capabilities of the clinical laboratory and the need for highly trained professionals who can accurately perform, evaluate, and interpret laboratory testing.

The Clinical Science Program at CSUDH prepares students for professional careers in diagnostic laboratory medicine through rigorous academic preparation and hands-on laboratory education. The program offers two educational pathways:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Clinical Science for undergraduate students; and
• Postbaccalaureate (PB) Certificate in Clinical Science for individuals who have already earned a bachelor's degree and meet the program's academic and prerequisite requirements.

Within these pathways, students may pursue one of two professional options:

• Medical Technology (MT), also known as Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) or Medical Laboratory Science (MLS); or
• Cytotechnology (CT).

Students complete coursework in the clinical and natural sciences designed to establish the scientific knowledge, technical competence, and analytical skills required for professional practice. Eligible students may subsequently apply for admission to a clinical internship at one of the Program's affiliated clinical training sites. Internship placement is a separate and competitive process and is not guaranteed by admission to CSUDH or completion of the preclinical curriculum.

Undergraduate Preparation

Students interested in Clinical Science are encouraged to develop a strong foundation in the biological and physical sciences, mathematics, communication, and analytical reasoning before entering the program.

High school students should complete a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, with particular emphasis on biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Courses that strengthen written communication, quantitative reasoning, and computer skills are also valuable preparation for university-level study in Clinical Science.

College and community college transfer students are encouraged to complete as many applicable lower-division requirements as possible before transferring to CSUDH. Recommended preparation includes coursework in general biology, general and quantitative chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and statistics.

Because course equivalencies vary among institutions, transfer students should verify that their coursework satisfies CSUDH requirements before enrollment. California Community College students should use , the official articulation database for California public colleges and universities, to identify approved course equivalencies and should consult with their community college counselor as needed.

Post Baccalaureate Preparation

For those who have a related science undergraduate degree, the PB Certificate Program in Medical Technology or Cytotechnology provides an academic and clinical route to professional certification and California state licensure. The applicants must first apply to the University and the Program at CSUDH via CalState Apply website (Ìý). The new application cycle starts on October 1st each year. The program only admits the PB students in the fall semester each year. If applicants are admitted, the academic records will be evaluated, and a roadmap will be specifically generated for each applicant. All preclinical course requirements (based on the roadmap) must be completed before starting the clinical internship. The Clinical Science Program at CSUDH does not have direct admission to the program, and a minimum of 2 semesters in residence at CSUDH is required to meet the requirements.

Note: Internship seats are competitive and are not guaranteed. The selection process will be conducted by a committee of CSUDH clinical affiliates according to the Supplementary Admission Criteria. The PB Certification gives students an opportunity to take the National Board Exam (BOC-ASCP) and earn the California license to practice as a clinical laboratory scientist in California. Program completion is not contingent upon passing an external exam.