Clinical/Medical Laboratory Assistant
Total graduates
353
2025 · 11 schools
International share
0.3%
1 international students
Bachelor's degrees
12
0.0% international
Overview
The Clinical/Medical Laboratory Assistant program prepares students for essential roles in the healthcare field, specifically within laboratory settings. These professionals are vital to the functioning of hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic laboratories, assisting in the collection, processing, and analysis of biological specimens.
Students in this program learn various laboratory techniques, including blood draws, specimen handling, and quality control processes. They are trained in the use of laboratory equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, and analyzers, gaining skills to perform routine tests that aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases.
Additionally, the curriculum often includes instruction on laboratory safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and effective communication within healthcare teams. This knowledge is crucial as Clinical/Medical Laboratory Assistants frequently interact with patients and other healthcare professionals, ensuring a smooth workflow and accurate results.
Job opportunities for graduates are robust, with a growing demand for laboratory professionals due to the increasing reliance on medical testing for patient care. Career paths can range from entry-level positions in laboratories to more advanced roles with further education and experience.
Overall, this program not only equips students with technical skills but also emphasizes the importance of precision, ethics, and teamwork in the medical field, making it an excellent choice for those interested in contributing to patient health and safety.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2002 to 2025, graduates grew 419% and the international share went from 10.3% to 0.3%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 11 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
| Rank | School | State | Graduates | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #191 | Rowan University | New Jersey | 12 | 0 |
| LAC #184 | Utah Tech University | Utah | 1 | 0 |
| — | Southwest University at El Paso | Texas | 287 | 0 |
| — | Delaware Technical Community College-Terry | Delaware | 9 | 0 |
| — | Cuyahoga Community College District | Ohio | 9 | 1 |
| — | University of Maine at Augusta | Maine | 8 | 0 |
| — | Wenatchee Valley College | Washington | 8 | 0 |
| — | ATA College | California | 6 | 0 |
| — | Dalton State College | Georgia | 5 | 0 |
| — | North Idaho College | Idaho | 5 | 0 |
| — | University of Maine at Presque Isle | Maine | 3 | 0 |
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | 221,270 | — | $147,570 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.