Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other.

Degree Overview

Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other (CIP 51.1099) is a healthcare science field focused on the analysis of biological samples, laboratory diagnostics, and technical testing that support medical decision-making and patient care. This classification includes interdisciplinary, emerging, or specialized laboratory science programs that do not fall under a single, clearly defined credential such as medical laboratory scientist or histotechnologist alone. It reflects the expanding role of laboratories in modern medicine, precision diagnostics, and public health.

For a degree search site, Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other represents accuracy, scientific rigor, and behind-the-scenes impact. Most medical decisions—diagnosis, treatment selection, disease monitoring—depend on laboratory data. This degree appeals to students who want a hands-on healthcare career grounded in science, technology, and problem-solving rather than direct bedside care.

What Is a Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science Degree?

A Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other degree is a science- and technology-focused healthcare program that prepares students to work in medical, clinical, and research laboratories. Programs under the “Other” designation may include hybrid laboratory tracks, interdisciplinary diagnostic sciences, molecular or genetic testing pathways, quality assurance roles, or specialized laboratory support occupations that extend beyond traditional titles.

This degree typically focuses on:

• Laboratory testing and diagnostic analysis
• Biological sample collection and processing
• Operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Data accuracy, quality control, and safety standards
• Clinical correlation and reporting of results

Universities, medical centers, and allied health schools offer this degree to:

• Prepare students for laboratory-based healthcare and diagnostic careers
• Support growing demand for laboratory professionals
• Train specialists in advanced and emerging diagnostic technologies
• Provide pathways into healthcare without direct patient treatment roles

Programs emphasize precision, consistency, and evidence-based practice.

What Will You Learn?

Students learn how laboratory data is generated, validated, and used to guide patient care. You’ll study how blood, tissue, urine, and other specimens are analyzed to detect disease, monitor health, and evaluate treatment effectiveness.

The curriculum is science-intensive and detail-oriented. Students learn laboratory techniques, instrumentation, quality assurance, and data interpretation. Depending on the program focus, coursework may include clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, molecular diagnostics, or laboratory management.

Hands-on training is central. Most programs include laboratory simulations or clinical practicums where students work with real equipment and follow strict safety and regulatory protocols. Accuracy, documentation, and adherence to standards are emphasized, as laboratory errors can directly affect patient outcomes.

Core Skills You’ll Build

Graduates typically develop skills such as:

• Clinical laboratory testing and analysis—diagnostic accuracy
• Specimen handling and processing—chain-of-custody procedures
• Laboratory instrumentation and technology use—automated systems
• Quality control and quality assurance—result validation
• Data recording and result reporting—precision documentation
• Infection control and biosafety practices—safe lab environments
• Critical thinking and troubleshooting—resolving test anomalies
• Interdisciplinary communication—working with healthcare teams

These skills are essential across clinical, research, and public health laboratories.

Topics You May Explore

Because this is an “Other” classification, coursework varies by institution but often includes:

• Introduction to Clinical and Medical Laboratory Sciences: field overview
• Clinical Chemistry and Instrumentation: chemical analysis
• Hematology and Coagulation Studies: blood disorders
• Clinical Microbiology and Parasitology: infectious disease testing
• Immunology and Serology: immune response analysis
• Molecular and Genetic Diagnostics: DNA- and RNA-based testing
• Laboratory Quality Assurance and Regulation: compliance standards
• Laboratory Informatics and Data Management: digital systems
• Clinical Practicum or Laboratory Internship: supervised experience

Programs often align coursework with certification or licensure preparation, depending on role and state requirements.

What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?

A Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other degree prepares students for technical and analytical roles that support diagnosis, treatment, and research. Job titles depend on program specialization and credentials.

Common career paths include:

• Clinical or Medical Laboratory Technician: diagnostic testing support
• Laboratory Technologist or Specialist: advanced analysis
• Molecular or Genetic Testing Technician: precision diagnostics
• Quality Control or Laboratory Compliance Specialist: standards oversight
• Public Health or Reference Laboratory Technician: population testing
• Research Laboratory Assistant: clinical or biomedical research
• Pathway to Advanced Laboratory or Healthcare Degrees: graduate study

Laboratory professionals are essential to nearly every area of healthcare.

Where Can You Work?

Graduates work in environments where diagnostic testing and laboratory analysis are central:

• Hospitals and medical centers
• Clinical and diagnostic laboratories
• Public health and government laboratories
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies
• Research universities and medical schools
• Reference labs and specialty testing facilities
• Environmental and industrial testing labs

Laboratory science professionals often work behind the scenes but play a critical role in patient outcomes.

How Much Can You Earn?

Earnings vary based on role, specialization, certifications, and location.

Typical ranges include:

• Entry-level laboratory technicians: often $45,000–$60,000
• Experienced laboratory technologists or specialists: commonly $60,000–$85,000
• Advanced, supervisory, or molecular diagnostics roles: can reach $90,000–$115,000+

Certifications, advanced technologies, and leadership responsibilities increase earning potential.

Is This Degree Hard?

Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other is considered academically rigorous and detail-intensive. Students must master biology, chemistry, and technical laboratory skills while maintaining extreme accuracy. The work requires concentration, patience, and comfort with repetitive but high-stakes procedures.

The challenge lies in producing consistently accurate results under strict regulatory standards.

Who Should Consider This Degree?

This degree may be a strong fit if you:

• Enjoy biology, chemistry, and laboratory science
• Prefer analytical, behind-the-scenes healthcare roles
• Are detail-oriented and methodical
• Want a stable, in-demand healthcare career
• Are interested in diagnostics, research, or biotechnology

How to Prepare in High School and College

To prepare for clinical and medical laboratory science programs:

• Take biology, chemistry, and laboratory-based science courses
• Develop strong attention to detail and data accuracy skills
• Learn basic laboratory safety and scientific methods
• Practice critical thinking and problem-solving
• Explore laboratory careers through job shadowing or science programs

Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science and Allied Professions, Other (CIP 51.1099) is a cornerstone of modern healthcare that transforms samples into life-saving information. It offers strong job security, scientific depth, and meaningful impact without direct patient care responsibilities. For students who value precision, evidence, and the power of data-driven medicine, this degree provides a respected and future-proof pathway into healthcare, diagnostics, and biomedical science.