University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme provides an integrated sequence of courses in biological and chemical sciences with specialised clinical laboratory training. Core subjects typically include clinical chemistry, hematology, clinical microbiology, immunology and transfusion science, molecular diagnostics, and laboratory instrumentation and automation. Students also study supporting topics such as anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, medical terminology, statistics, and laboratory quality management.

Practical experience is a major component: supervised laboratory practicums and clinical rotations in hospitals and diagnostic laboratories allow students to apply methods such as microscopy, culture techniques, immunoassays, nucleic acid amplification, and instrumentation troubleshooting. Coursework emphasises laboratory safety, regulatory compliance, specimen handling, quality assurance and data interpretation. Many students also undertake a capstone project or research placement that develops problem-solving and communication skills relevant to clinical settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong foundation in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes secondary-level biology and chemistry; prior coursework in physics and statistics is desirable. For transfer applicants, completion of introductory college-level courses in biology, general chemistry and anatomy/physiology will strengthen an application.

Admission to the professional clinical sequence may be competitive and can require meeting departmental prerequisites, satisfactory academic standing, and completion of any required screening processes. Students should be prepared to fulfil health and safety requirements for clinical placements, which may include immunisations, background checks and compliance with relevant hospital policies. International applicants must meet the university's standard English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles in healthcare and the life-sciences sector. Common career destinations include clinical laboratory scientist/technologist positions in hospital and private diagnostic laboratories, roles in public health laboratories, blood banks and transfusion services, and positions with biotechnology and diagnostic companies. The practical laboratory skills and understanding of regulatory and quality systems also suit roles in laboratory management, sales/applications support for clinical instrumentation, and laboratory-based research.

Many graduates pursue further study or certification to expand their career options—examples include professional certification/licensure where applicable, graduate programmes in medical laboratory science, public health, biomedical research, or entry to allied health and medical programmes.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Mānoa

The University of Hawaii at Mānoa offers clinical science training within a research-active campus linked to the John A. Burns School of Medicine and local health providers. Students benefit from clinical placements across Hawaiʻi’s hospitals and diagnostic centres, exposing them to diverse patient populations and regional public-health issues. Facilities include teaching laboratories and access to research laboratories where students can gain hands-on experience with contemporary diagnostic technologies.

Studying at Mānoa also provides opportunities to engage with faculty who have clinical and research expertise, to participate in community and public-health initiatives in the Pacific region, and to develop the practical, regulatory and communication skills valued by employers. The programme’s connection to local health systems helps with professional networking and transition into the workforce or postgraduate study.