School of Clinical Laboratory Science

The Clinical Laboratory Science program is designed to provide the clinical year of training for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science or a related field. Individuals who have completed a Bachelor of Science degree in another field may be considered for the program provided they meet the admission requirements. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification examination in Medical Laboratory Science administered by the ASCP Board of Certification.

The CLS program at Augusta Health is twelve-months in length, beginning in mid-summer. The first six months is the didactic phase in which students study the pathophysiology of disease through lectures and student labs. The second six months is the clinical rotation phase which emphasizes practical application through hands on work in the clinical laboratory at Augusta Health. Also, as the result of a unique partnership, students participate in a six-week rotation through the Medical Laboratories of the University of Virginia Health System.

Since its inception in 1955 at King's Daughters' Hospital in Staunton, approximately 250 students have graduated, passed the national certification examinations, and are successful Clinical Laboratory Scientists. These graduates are working in hospital laboratories, physician office laboratories, medical industry, research, education, administration, and many other areas of healthcare.

The program is conducted in a modern clinical laboratory, accredited by the College of American Pathologists and the Joint Commission. The School of Clinical Laboratory Science holds a national accreditation through the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Program Director:

Ellie Coggins MLS (ASCP)^CM, MSHA
(540) 332-4539
ecoggins@augustahealth.com