A post-baccalaureate certificate program+ providing an academic and clinical route to professional certification as a generalist Clinical Laboratory Scientist.
The Channel Islands CLS program includes both didactic and practical clinical training in the full spectrum of diagnostic tests in hospital laboratories. Students participate in clinical laboratory rotations Mondays through Thursdays, 40 hours per week for 52 weeks, supervised by teaching coordinators or specialists, bench clinical laboratory scientists, and site coordinators. A series of weekly didactic lectures is given in the core subject areas by CSU Channel Islands faculty and staff during the fall and spring semesters. Graduates receive documentation of completion and are eligible to take the certifying examination for licensure and employment in California.
Check out this article about CSUCI's partner hospitals
Program Snapshot:
- Prepares you for California CLS licensure
- Focus on clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, urinalysis, immunohematology, serology, special clinical practices and procedures
- Supervised by teaching specialists, bench clinical laboratory scientists, and site coordinators
View the Program Requirements (PDF, 105 KB) (New updates for 2026)
Check out the frequently asked questions.
Applications for Fall term will be available from January 1st - February 28th.
Required documentation when applying:
- Unofficial Transcripts (Official Transcripts required if admitted)
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume
- CDPH Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Generalist) Trainee license (if you already have it, otherwise required to have by August 12th)
At a Glance
Area of study: clinical microbiology, clinical chemistry, urinalysis, immunohematology, serology, special clinical practices and procedures.
Ideal for: Individuals with a B.S. in CLS, biology, or chemistry seeking professional preparation and eligibility to sit for CLS licensure.
Location: CSUCI Camarillo campus and one of four affiliated clinical laboratories in Ventura County hospitals.
Program format: Four days per-week in-person clinical training, one day per week in-person classroom work, with occasional online supplementation.
Number of courses: Two classroom courses, multiple on-site clinical training rotations.
Program length: One year
Fees: $1000 per unit
Financial assistance: Certificate programs do not qualify for financial aid. Monthly payment plans may be available.