Evidence based practice and advanced competencies in a MHS-CLS program.

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Clinical Laboratory Science

Background:

• Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) programs face challenges including workforce shortages and a need for practitioners skilled in evidence-based practice research.
• Analysis of student demographics and national graduation trends indicated a need for advanced CLS education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the goals, curriculum, implementation, and initial impacts of an entry-level Master of Health Science in Clinical Laboratory Science (MHS-CLS) degree.
• To compare the MHS-CLS program with the existing baccalaureate program (BS-CLS) at the same institution.

Main Methods:

• The MHS-CLS program was established in fall 2008, with the first graduates in spring 2010.
• Program need was assessed using statistics on students with prior degrees, national biology/chemistry graduates, and CLS workforce shortages.
• Curriculum development involved advanced coursework and integration of advanced competencies into BS-CLS courses.

Main Results:

• The MHS-CLS program incorporates advanced coursework and competencies.
• A capstone research project in evidence-based practice is a key component of the MHS-CLS curriculum.
• The program aims to address the shortage of CLS practitioners capable of conducting and publishing research.

Conclusions:

• The MHS-CLS program was instituted to meet identified needs within the clinical laboratory science field.
• The curriculum is designed to enhance practitioner skills in advanced competencies and evidence-based practice research.
• The program represents an advancement in CLS education, preparing graduates for specialized roles and research.