Eastern Mennonite University

What you'll study

The programme combines liberal‑arts general education with discipline‑specific courses in laboratory medicine. Early coursework typically covers foundational sciences such as general biology, human anatomy and physiology, and general and organic chemistry. Core clinical science modules focus on clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology (blood banking), molecular diagnostics, parasitology and laboratory safety and quality assurance.

Practical laboratory skills are emphasised through on‑campus lab sessions, simulations and a series of supervised clinical practicum placements in partner healthcare facilities. Most students also complete a capstone project or senior practicum that integrates technical competency, data interpretation and professional practice.

• Foundational sciences: biology, human anatomy & physiology, chemistry
• Core clinical modules: clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, hematology, immunohematology, molecular diagnostics
• Laboratory practice: hands‑on techniques, instrumentation, quality control and lab safety
• Professional development: ethics in healthcare, communication, statistics and laboratory management
• Capstone and clinical practicum: extended placements in diagnostic laboratories or hospitals

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in science and mathematics. Typical prerequisites include high school biology and chemistry; courses in algebra or precalculus are also recommended. Admissions considers overall academic record, recommendations and a personal statement that demonstrates interest in laboratory science and patient‑centred care.

Because the programme includes clinical placements, accepted students must be able to meet health and safety requirements for healthcare settings, which commonly include up‑to‑date immunisations, background checks and the ability to participate in clinical rotations. Some form of interview or meeting with programme faculty may be part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of laboratory and allied health roles. Common job titles include medical/clinical laboratory scientist, clinical laboratory technologist, laboratory technician and molecular diagnostics technologist. Alumni also find roles in hospital and community public health laboratories, blood banks, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and research laboratories.

The programme prepares students for national professional certification and state licensing where applicable, and many graduates pursue further study in related fields such as physician assistant programmes, graduate research, or specialised clinical training.

Why study at Eastern Mennonite University

Eastern Mennonite University offers a small‑scale, student‑centred learning environment with close faculty mentorship and an emphasis on ethical practice and community engagement. The clinical science programme integrates liberal‑arts learning with real‑world laboratory experience through supervised clinical placements with regional healthcare partners, giving students regular access to contemporary instrumentation and diagnostic workflows.

Students benefit from small laboratory classes, personalised advising for certification and career planning, and opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary projects that connect science, ethics and service—consistent with the university’s focus on experiential learning and professional formation.