Seattle University

What you'll study

This programme covers foundational and applied topics that underpin clinical laboratory practice. Year‑one and year‑two study typically build competence in general biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and statistics alongside Seattle University’s core curriculum. Upper‑division modules focus on specialised clinical disciplines, often including:

• Clinical Microbiology: pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasitology, culture techniques and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
• Clinical Chemistry: biochemical analysis of body fluids, instrumentation, quality control and interpretation of results.
• Hematology and Coagulation: blood cell morphology, automated hematology analysis, haemostasis testing.
• Immunology and Serology: antibody and antigen testing, immunoassay methods and immune disorders.
• Molecular Diagnostics: nucleic acid extraction, PCR and other molecular techniques used in infectious disease and genetic testing.
• Laboratory Management and Quality Assurance: safety, regulatory compliance, laboratory information systems and workflow management.
• Clinical Practicum: supervised placements in diagnostic laboratories or hospital settings to develop professional competence and meet workplace expectations.

Practical laboratory classes and simulation experiences are emphasised throughout the degree, culminating in extended clinical rotations that allow students to apply technical skills, professional communication and problem‑solving in real laboratory environments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in science and maths. Typical subject preparation includes college‑level or high‑school chemistry and biology; coursework in algebra or statistics is also recommended. Seattle University looks for evidence of academic readiness (GPA from secondary studies) and a demonstrated interest in healthcare; relevant volunteer or laboratory experience strengthens an application.

Additional admissions considerations may include a personal statement, references, and an interview. Applicants for transfer or degree‑completion routes should provide college transcripts showing completion of prerequisite science courses. Standardised test requirements vary; check Seattle University’s admissions guidance for current policy.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of laboratory and allied‑health careers. Common roles include:

• Medical Laboratory Scientist / Clinical Laboratory Technologist in hospital and diagnostic laboratories.
• Public health laboratory technician or specialist working on surveillance and outbreak response.
• Laboratory technologist in biotech, pharmaceutical or environmental testing companies.
• Research assistant positions in academic or clinical research groups.
• Progression to graduate or professional programmes such as physician assistant, advanced nursing, biomedical science graduate study or specialised laboratory certification.

The programme also readies students to sit national certification or licensure examinations where applicable, and to meet clinical competency expectations employers require.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University offers a student‑centred, Jesuit education with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring. For clinical science students this translates into extensive hands‑on laboratory training, frequent instructor supervision in wet‑lab courses and structured clinical placements with diagnostic laboratories in the greater Seattle region. The university emphasises ethics, service and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates to work effectively within healthcare teams.

Located in a major medical and biotech hub, the programme benefits from proximity to hospitals, public health agencies and life‑science employers, helping students secure practicum placements and make professional connections useful for launching their careers.