Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in life sciences and clinical laboratory practice. Core science modules commonly include human anatomy and physiology, general and organic chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, and immunology. Clinical-focused modules typically cover clinical chemistry, hematology, transfusion science, clinical microbiology, molecular diagnostics and laboratory management.

Teaching combines lectures, small-group laboratory practicals and supervised clinical placements. Students gain hands-on experience with diagnostic instruments and contemporary laboratory techniques, and learn quality assurance, data interpretation, clinical reporting and professional communication. Many programmes also include coursework in ethics, patient safety and interprofessional practice to prepare graduates for work in healthcare settings.

• Foundational sciences: anatomy, physiology, biochemistry
• Core clinical laboratory subjects: clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology
• Molecular diagnostics and laboratory technologies
• Quality systems, laboratory management and professional practice
• Clinical placements / practicum in hospital or community diagnostic laboratories
• Electives and opportunities for research or projects in applied clinical science

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed a high school diploma or equivalent with good grades in science subjects. Typical prerequisite subjects include biology and chemistry; mathematics and physics are advantageous. Admissions may consider overall academic record, personal statement, references and any relevant laboratory or healthcare experience.

Where offered, selection may include an interview to assess motivation for clinical work and suitability for patient-facing laboratory roles. Successful applicants should also be prepared to meet standard health, immunisation or background-check requirements for clinical placements as required by partner healthcare facilities.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in diagnostic and clinical laboratories, including positions as clinical laboratory scientists/medical laboratory technologists, laboratory supervisors, and specialists in areas such as microbiology, hematology or molecular diagnostics. Career paths also extend to public health laboratories, blood banks, biomedical research support, quality assurance in in vitro diagnostics and biotechnology industry roles.

Many graduates pursue further professional certification or postgraduate study to expand specialisation or move into allied health professions, management, research or academic roles. The emphasis on clinical placements and interprofessional skills supports smooth transition into workplace settings and further clinical training.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola combines a research-active university environment with access to clinical settings through its affiliated hospitals and health sciences centres, providing students with practical, supervised experience. The university’s Jesuit tradition emphasises service, ethical practice and holistic care, which is reflected in curricula that address professionalism, patient-centred communication and social responsibility.

Students benefit from hands-on laboratory teaching, small-group instruction, and opportunities to engage in applied research or community health initiatives. Interprofessional learning with nursing, medicine and allied health programmes at Loyola helps prepare graduates to work effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams.

If you want a programme that integrates solid scientific training with real-world clinical practice and a focus on ethical, patient-centred care, Loyola University Chicago’s clinical science pathway offers a practical route into diagnostic and allied health careers.