Additional Information for Clinical Laboratory Technology
Admission Process
- All applicants for the Clinical Laboratory Technology program must first be admitted to St. Louis Community College.
- Applications for this program are accepted on a continuing basis throughout the year; however, students begin the program in August.
- Because of the quality of this program, the number of qualified applicants often exceeds the number of openings. Students are then put on a wait list on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Applicants enter the program in the fall semester and must first attend a mandatory orientation session held in July. The specific date, time and location of the orientation are included in the admissions letter.
Prior to application we recommend that you meet with an STLCC academic advisor. The advisor can help you plan your courses, clarify program requirements, and review your academic history as it relates to this program.
STLCC’s Clinical Laboratory Technology program is a selective admissions program with academic prerequisites as well as requirements regarding clinical eligibility. Meet with an STLCC advisor or faculty member for more details.
Applicants must complete the following academic requirements before applying for the Clinical Laboratory Technology program:
- BIO: 111 Introduction to Biology I or one year of high school biology with labs and one year of high school chemistry with labs
- MTH:030 Elementary Algebra, or one year of high school algebra
- Math and science prerequisites with a grade of “C” or better
- Math and science prerequisites must be completed within five calendar years of admission to the program, although the five-year limit for the science requirement may be waived in some situations. Contact program director.
- Reading proficiency
- Must be academically prepared to enroll in ENG:101 and RDG:100
- GPA of 2.5 or better on a 4.0 scale from college or high school or eligibility semester: math, science and one other course
- Clinical Eligibility: Prior to the start of the clinical practicum, you must:
- Submit proof of current CPR – Certification for Health Professionals.
- Submit a completed heath history and physical examination.
- Submit a negative TB skin test.
- Undergo a background check, and drug screen through a college-approved background screening company prior to the beginning of the fall semester of clinical practice. Students not passing the criminal background check and/or drug screen may be prohibited from participating in clinical education. This will prevent the student from being able to complete all program requirements.
- Meet essential functions related to observation, communication, motor skills, behavioral and social attributes.
The cost to fulfill these requirements is the student’s responsibility.
Additional Information
STLCC’s Clinical Laboratory Technology Advisory Board brings together top industry professionals. Members serve for two-year renewable terms, and STLCC’s faculty works hand-in-hand with this elite group to evaluate and update our curriculum, stay up-to-date on the latest innovations, and promote networking.
Clinical Laboratory Technology Clinical Sites:
- SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital
- Louis Children’s Hospital
- SSM Health DePaul Hospital
- Des Peres Hospital
- Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital
- Mercy Hospital Crystal City
- Mercy Hospital Troy
- Anthony’s Medical Center
- SSM St. Clare Hospital
- SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital
- Luke’s Hospital
- SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital — St. Charles
- SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital – Lake St. Louis
- SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a wait list for the program?
Qualified students are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact program faculty for up-to-date information regarding the current wait list.
When does the program begin?
STLCC starts a new class every August.
Length of program?
Two years (upon admission to program), including summer of the first year.
How many students are accepted each year?
Fifteen students.
What should I do while waiting to start the program?
Take any general education classes that are required as part of the Clinical Laboratory Technology program. See the Recommended Academic Plan (RAP) under “Program Curriculum” for more information.
What do Medical/Clinical Laboratory Technicians do
Clinical laboratory technicians are important members of the health care team. Laboratory technicians perform laboratory tests on patient samples such blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid. The test results assist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases and the maintenance of health. Most technicians work within hospitals, medical and diagnostic laboratories and physician offices. The medical or clinical laboratory technician performs qualitative, quantitative and analytical testing in microbiology, hematology, blood banking, clinical chemistry, immunology and serology and urinalysis.
Professional Affiliations
Graduates are eligible for membership in the following organizations: ASCP and ASCLS (see below).
Students are eligible for admission, as student members, upon enrollment in the program to these organizations:
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)