pre-clinical laboratory science
STEMPre-Clinical Laboratory Science, A.A.

Prairie State College’s Pre-Clinical Laboratory Science A.A. program offers a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques. Designed for students planning to transfer to four-year health science programs, this degree prepares you for a range of careers in medical laboratories and healthcare settings.

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What Can You Do with a Degree in Pre-Clinical Laboratory Science?

With this degree, you can transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in medical technology, health sciences, or related fields. It also prepares you for entry-level roles in medical laboratories, research facilities, and healthcare organizations, providing a strong foundation for a career in medical diagnostics and healthcare support.
Graduates with an Associate in Arts in Pre-Clinical Laboratory Science are well-prepared to transfer to bachelor’s programs in health sciences, medical technology, or related fields. Career opportunities include medical laboratory technician, research assistant, health technician, and roles in clinical laboratories. The demand for skilled laboratory professionals continues to grow with advances in healthcare and medical research.

Suggested Curriculum

Clinical laboratory scientists are vital in detecting, diagnosing, and treating many diseases. Bachelor's programs in this field, known as Clinical Laboratory Science or Medical Laboratory Science, prepare students to perform advanced analyses and oversee all laboratory operations as Level III practitioners.

Area A: Communication (9 credits)


  • ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
  • ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
  • COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)

Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (9 credits)


Select three courses from the list for Area B with at least one course from humanities and one from fine arts.

Area C: Mathematics (3-4 credits)


Select one math course from:

  • MATH 115 General Education Statistics (M1 902)
  • MATH 153 Probability and Statistics (MI 902)

Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (9 credits)


  • BIOL 112 Organismal Biology (L1 910L; BIO 910)
  • CHEM 110 General Chemistry I (P1 902L; CHM 911)

Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 credits)


Select three courses in at least two different disciplines from the list for Area E.


  • BIOL 111 Cellular and Molecular Biology (IAI: BIO 910; L1 910L) recommended
  • CHEM 130 General Chemistry II (CHM 912) recommended
  • CHEM 203 Organic Chemistry I (CHM 913)
  • CHEM 204 Organic Chemistry II (CHM 914)

Select two biology courses from the following:


  • BIOL 211 Microbiology
  • BIOL 221 Human Anatomy and Physiology I
  • BIOL 222 Human Anatomy and Physiology II

Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.


Faculty Contact Information

Christine Brooms

Professor, Coordinator, Chemistry Department Chair, Natural Sciences
Email: cbrooms@prairiestate.edu 
Phone: 709-3604
Office: 2297

April McDonnell

Science Lab Coordinator
Email: amcdonnell@prairiestate.edu 
Phone: 709-7760
Office: 3145

 

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Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.

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