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BS in Clinical Laboratory Science/MS in Microbiology - Accelerated Degree, University of Wisconsin–La Crosse
La Crosse, Wisconsin
.
72 Months
Check Eligibility
About this course
This dual degree program at UWL allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Science in clinical laboratory science and a Master of Science in microbiology with an emphasis in clinical microbiology within six years. The program starts with undergraduate coursework and progresses through specialized clinical training at hospital sites, leading to graduate studies. Students accepted into the program must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 and complete specific core courses in biology, microbiology, chemistry, and mathematics. After finishing their undergraduate degree, students move into the graduate phase, completing advanced microbiology courses, research, and practicum components to earn their master's degree. The timeline includes applications at various stages, and the clinical internships are a vital part of the hands-on training component.
Why this course is highly recommended
This dual degree program is ideal for students who want to fast-track their education in microbiology and clinical laboratory science, combining undergraduate and graduate study in six years. It provides extensive hands-on clinical training through hospital internships, coupled with advanced coursework, which can enhance employability in healthcare laboratories, microbiology labs, and related fields. The program's structure supports rapid career development with a strong emphasis on practical experience and advanced microbiology knowledge.
Specialisation
The program offers a special focus on clinical microbiology, emphasizing diagnostic microbiology, laboratory management, epidemiology, and immunology. It prepares students for careers in clinical microbiology, combining fundamentals of microbiology with practical laboratory management and education, ensuring a comprehensive skill set for advanced roles in microbiological diagnostics and healthcare settings.
Course fees
Application fees
NaNL
1st year tuition fees
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Living cost
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Living cost
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Degree requirements
To earn the Bachelor of Science degree, students must complete 120 undergraduate credits, including major and general university requirements, and maintain at least a 2.00 GPA. For the Master of Science, students need to complete 33 graduate credits, including a research thesis and practicum components. Students must have graduate status before registering for their final graduate courses and must apply for graduate admission during their last undergraduate semester. The undergraduate credits include core courses in biology, microbiology, chemistry, and mathematics, while the master's coursework emphasizes diagnostic microbiology, management, and research.
English language test
DUOLINGO
100
IELTS
6
TOEFL
73
PTE
54
Career prospects
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in clinical microbiology and related healthcare fields. They can work in diagnostic laboratories, hospitals, public health agencies, and research institutions. The comprehensive training and practical experience provide a strong foundation for roles that involve microbiological diagnostics, laboratory management, and research, opening pathways to advanced positions in healthcare and microbiology specialties.
FAQs
What is the timeline for entering the dual degree program?
Students should apply to the CLS program in their spring semester of sophomore year, then apply for the dual degree during the summer after their junior year, with applications due by July 1.
What are the main coursework components?
The program includes foundational courses in biology, microbiology, chemistry, and math, along with clinical courses in laboratory science and microbiology, plus graduate courses in microbiology, management, and research.
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