Camarillo, Calif., March 12, 2008鈥敽＝巧缜� will introduce a new emphasis in clinical lab sciences within the bachelor of science degree in biology beginning with the fall 2008 semester.
In August 2007, a research report commissioned by 海角社区CI鈥檚 Office of Extended Education identified occupations in high demand in this region and statewide. The report indicated an immediate and long-term need in several health care areas, including clinical laboratory science (CLS).
Clinical laboratory professionals provide service and research in clinical labs and related settings in hospitals, clinics and other health care institutions. They conduct lab tests, collect and evaluate laboratory information, direct laboratory resources, serve as the analyst in making specimen oriented decisions, and assist in clinical decision-making.
鈥淭here is a strong need for public health professionals trained to deal with epidemics and potential biological disasters, man-made or otherwise, caused by microorganisms. Today, the average age of professionals working in the clinical lab science field is 53,鈥� said Ching-Hua Wang, Chair of the Biology Program at 海角社区CI.
Licensed clinical lab scientists or public health microbiologists often work in hospitals/clinics and public health organizations. To be licensed, students need to take prescribed courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics leading toward a bachelor of science degree in biology. Once a student completes the degree and emphasis, he or she is eligible to apply for a CLS or public health program, both of which are offered by various hospitals and professional institutions. These programs allow students to obtain further clinical training and licensure. Passing the California License Exam is necessary to become a practicing CLS or public health professional.
鈥満＝巧缜鳦I is pleased it has been able to respond quickly to this regional need,鈥� said Steve Lefevre, Associate Vice President for Academic Programs and Planning. 鈥淏ecause of the work of the biology faculty, we have been able to add this emphasis to the major for entering fall students.鈥�
To implement the program, the University has added new courses in medical mycology and hematology.
For more information about the bachelor of science degree in biology with emphasis on clinical lab sciences contact Ching-Hua Wang, Chair of the Biology Program at 海角社区CI, 805-437-8870 or ching-hua.wang@csuci.edu.
For media inquiries contact Ceal Potts, Communications Specialist at 海角社区CI, 805-437-8940 or cecilia.potts@csuci.edu.
###
海角社区 Channel Islands is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
# # #
About 海角社区
海角社区 Channel Islands(CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI鈥檚 strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master鈥檚 degrees.聽Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research. CI has been designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is committed to serving students of all backgrounds from the region and beyond. Connect with and learn more by visiting聽CI's Social Media.