Considering a M.S. in Clinical Laboratory Sciences Masters Degree? Clinical lab scientists specialize in identifying human diseases using complex medical tests. They analyze tests results and work towards perfecting these tests for earlier and more accurate disease detection. This field is an excellent fit for individuals who are interested in the medical field but less interested in direct patient care.
It’s important to know that many clinical lab science graduate programs value a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences, medical technology or clinical lab science. At the very least, they typically seek applicants with extensive undergraduate coursework in biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. Any deficiency in coursework will be assessed to determine whether additional classes will be needed before beginning the graduate curriculum.
While curriculum varies by program, coursework often includes:
Those working in the medical science field frequently find work with
research firms, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies. According to information collected by the University of Massachusetts-Lowell, graduates of their clinical lab sciences graduate program have accepted positions as clinical lab supervisors, health care administrators, biomedical or biotechnology research scientists, and clinical trial coordinators. Others have found work as pharmaceutical scientists, forensic scientists, and in the biomedical device industry.
According to the Bureau of Labor
Statistics medical science job opportunities are expected to increase by 13% between 2012 and 2022. Growth in potential career opportunities for medical and clinical lab scientists is said to be fueled by the medical communities focus on conducting research to find treatment options for individuals suffering from a wide variety of diseases and other medical challenges.
In 2012 the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median annual salary of medical scientists was $76,980. The highest 10% of earners made more than $146,650, while the lowest 10% of earners made less than $41,340. The chart below outlines the median annual salaries of medical scientists employed in various industries.