SFSU Launches MLT to CLS Bridge Training Program

New Graduate Certificate Program

San Francisco State University is launching a new Medical Lab Technician to Clinical Lab Scientist Bridge Training Program beginning in October. This graduate certificate program is designed to help you advance from Medical Laboratory Technician to Clinical Laboratory Scientist while continuing to work in the field.

Hybrid Program Format

The 6.5-month program runs from October through early April and combines online coursework with in-person clinical training. You complete didactic courses online and gain supervised, hands-on experience at a CDPH LFS-approved clinical training site. If you work at an approved affiliate, you may be able to complete your clinical rotations at your place of employment.

Who Should Apply

This program is designed for licensed medical laboratory technicians who hold a current CDPH LFS-issued MLT license and want to qualify for California Clinical Laboratory Scientist licensure. You build advanced knowledge in clinical chemistry and urinalysis, microbiology, hematology, serology and immunohematology. Through clinical internships, you strengthen your ability to perform complex diagnostic testing, interpret results and take on expanded CLS-level responsibilities.

Accreditation and Approval

The program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences and approved by the California Department of Public Health Laboratory Field Services. When you complete the program, you meet California training requirements to apply for CLS licensure.

Academic Senate Approval Pending

The MLT to CLS Bridge Training Program is currently under review by the SFSU Academic Senate.