The Clinical Laboratory Scientist Preparatory Program is designed for individuals who need prerequisite coursework to prepare for admission to clinical laboratory scientist (CLS) and medical laboratory scientist (MLS) training programs. The curriculum includes foundational and advanced science courses commonly required by CLS training programs.
This program is designed for individuals preparing to apply to CLS or MLS training programs, students who need prerequisite science coursework and professionals seeking to strengthen their academic preparation for careers in laboratory medicine.
Many CLS and MLS training programs require coursework in subjects such as hematology, immunology, medical microbiology, biochemistry and physiology. Because prerequisite requirements vary by institution, students should review the requirements of their intended programs to determine whether specific courses satisfy admission requirements.
Yes, this program can be completed entirely online or through a combination of in-person and online classes.
No. Students may begin taking courses without registering for the full program. However, students who wish to earn the Award of Completion must register for the program before completing the required coursework.
The program offers many of the prerequisite and recommended science courses commonly required by CLS and MLS training programs. Students can strengthen their academic preparation, improve their science coursework record and demonstrate readiness for rigorous professional training. Many students also use the program to complete missing prerequisites, update older coursework or enhance their overall application profile.
Whether an instructor is willing to provide a letter of recommendation is at their discretion. We recommend that students contact the instructor directly to learn about any specific expectations, requirements or information needed to support such a request.
Students are welcome to take additional courses beyond the 9-semester unit requirement. Extension courses are open to the public, so formal admission to the program is not required to enroll. For information on course registration, transcript requests and other Extension policies and guidelines, please visit our Enrollment page.
Students may enroll in as many courses as they wish at one time. However, we encourage students to carefully consider their workload and pace themselves appropriately to ensure they can successfully engage with and complete their coursework.
While our students are not eligible for federal financial aid programs related to FAFSA, students may consider private education loans. More information about financial assistance options is on the website.
A number of laboratory courses are included among the program's approved electives and may be used to satisfy elective requirements. While students are welcome to enroll in laboratory courses that are not listed as approved electives, such courses may not be eligible for elective credit within the program.
Students who enroll in the program receive a structured pathway aligned with CLS preparatory coursework and are eligible to earn an Award of Completion upon successfully meeting program requirements. The program also provides a clear framework for selecting courses that support preparation for CLS and MLS training program applications.
If you have any additional questions or would like to learn more about whether the Clinical Laboratory Scientist Preparatory Program would be a good fit for you, please email us at extension-science@berkeley.edu. You may also attend an online information session to learn more about the curriculum, course offerings and pathways to CLS and MLS training programs and allow you to ask staff questions in real time.