University of Southern Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme combines core science coursework, specialised clinical laboratory modules and supervised clinical practicum. Early years cover foundational subjects such as general biology, general and organic chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, and statistics. Later, specialised modules include clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, haematology, immunology, molecular diagnostics, transfusion medicine, laboratory instrumentation and quality assurance.

• Laboratory techniques and instrumentation — hands-on training with spectrophotometers, automated analyzers, microscopes and molecular platforms.
• Clinical disciplines — microbiology, parasitology, immunohematology, clinical chemistry and hematology.
• Professional practice — laboratory safety, regulatory compliance, laboratory management and ethics.
• Clinical practicum — extended placements in hospital and reference laboratories that integrate classroom learning with real patient testing under supervision.
• Research and capstone — opportunities to undertake small research projects or a capstone experience in laboratory-based problems.

The degree normally fulfils academic requirements needed for professional certification and licensure pathways; students also complete coursework in communication and critical thinking as part of the university's general education requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in science and mathematics. Typical expectations include:

• A solid record in biology and chemistry (including laboratory coursework).
• Competence in mathematics (algebra and statistics recommended).
• Submission of an application to the university; additional programme-specific materials such as a personal statement, résumé and references may be required.
• Some programmes use standardised test scores where relevant, but entry is often assessed holistically.
• Because of the clinical practicum element, accepted students must meet health and immunisation requirements, pass background checks, and maintain current CPR certification where required.

Students who already hold relevant college credits or who complete prerequisite coursework at community colleges often transfer into the clinical sequence; contact the programme office for guidance on equivalencies and sequencing.

Career prospects

Graduates typically enter the workforce as clinical laboratory scientists/medical technologists, performing diagnostic tests that inform patient care. Common roles include:

• Clinical laboratory scientist / medical technologist in hospital laboratories and private diagnostic centres.
• Specialist technologist roles in microbiology, molecular diagnostics, immunohematology or clinical chemistry.
• Positions in public-health laboratories, blood banks and transfusion services.
• Laboratory management, quality assurance, technical sales or application support for diagnostic equipment manufacturers.
• Research technician roles in academic, pharmaceutical or biotechnology settings, or progression to graduate study (e.g. master's/PhD, physician assistant or allied-health advanced credentials).

Graduates are also prepared to sit national certification or licensure examinations where applicable; certification enhances employability and career advancement.

Why study at University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a programme with strong emphasis on hands-on laboratory training and clinical experience through partnerships with regional hospitals and diagnostic laboratories. Students benefit from dedicated teaching laboratories, small cohort sizes that support close faculty mentoring, and access to modern instrumentation used in clinical practice.

Faculty are active in teaching and applied laboratory work, helping students bridge classroom theory and real-world clinical workflows. The programme supports clinical placement coordination, career services and opportunities for undergraduate research, preparing graduates for immediate entry into diagnostic laboratories or further study in health professions.