Program Description

The Clinical Laboratory Science program begins summer quarter and is based on the completion of two years of prerequisite course work at any accredited college or university. The first year at Loma Linda University primarily emphasizes the theoretical aspects of clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, and immunohematology, with training in phlebotomy. The senior year combines clinical training with more advanced classroom topics. 

Program Website  |  Catalog

Program Length

2 years

Possible Careers

This career opens the doors to many medical and scientific opportunities. The majority of clinical laboratory scientists work in hospitals or similar medical facilities. Some CLSs work in private and government reference laboratories where they may perform specialized testing. Other opportunities exist in public health agencies and laboratories, forensic medicine, home health diagnostics, blood banks and transfusion services, health and patient education as well as in physician's offices and medical clinics. CLS personnel are also employed by medical consulting firms, DNA technology and genetic engineering corporations, research laboratories, medical product development companies, and in health information management systems.

Application Deadlines

Quarter Application Open Priority Deadline Final Deadline
Autumn of 2025 Mar 1, 2025 — May 15, 2025

Admissions Requirements

To be eligible for admission, the applicant must have:

  • A minimum prerequisite science GPA of 2.75
    • A minimum grade of “C” for all transfer courses. C-minus grades are not acceptable for transfer credit.
  • Official transcripts for all college credits including AP course (High School transcripts or GED are required for those without at least an Associate degree)
  • Application with personal essay
  • Three letters of recommendation from college instructors

Prerequisites

  • 16 quarter units of Arts & Humanities
  • College Algebra or Calculus
  • General Biology (one course with lab)
  • General Chemistry (complete sequence with labs)
  • Organic Chemistry (complete sequence with labs)
  • Introductory or General Physics with labs (must include principles of light and electricity)
  • 12 quarter units of social science
    • Includes one course (or components integrated into several courses) dealing specifically with issues of human diversity
  • 9 quarter units of Written & Oral Communication
    • Includes English composition (complete sequence) must meet the baccalaureate degree requirements of a four-year college or university
  • Health or nutrition
  • Two physical education activity classes

Discipline Accrediting Agency

National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), 5600 N. River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont, IL  60018-5119.  (773) 714-8880.
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.

Expected Cost of Attendance

The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.

Required Program Costs

Academic Year 2024-2025

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
12 		Year 2
12
Tuition & Fees $52,179 $51,738
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school) 		$1,540 $84

Other Educational Costs

Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
12 		Year 2
12
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
    		•  $15,780 $15,780
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
    		•  $25,200 $25,200
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
    		• $26,400 $26,400
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
    		•  $9,600 $9,600
  • Off Campus
    		•  $25,200 $25,200
    Transportation Allowance $3,500 $3,500
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $3,500 $3,500
    Federal Student Loan Fees $79 $79
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0 $480
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request

    Notes

    The cost of attendance varies from year to year.  Please contact the office of Student Finance for up-to-date costs.
    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.
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