Master of Science in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences

Traditional/Research Pathway

In this pathway, the focus is to gain deeper knowledge and experience in clinical laboratory research. Complete a set of core CDS courses centering on research methodology and implementation. This pathway includes a capstone project which provides a unique opportunity to conduct a research-based or problem-based project relevant to your career goals.

Professional Development Pathway

Designed for those who already have certification in a health field, this pathway serves professionals seeking management or administrative positions. Take courses in advanced CDS, management, organizational behavior and public administration, and choose from electives in educational theory, leadership, academic affairs and higher education to tailor the program towards your career goals.

Combined Medical Laboratory Sciences Pathway

For those enrolled in Oakland’s B.S. in CDS program with a specialization in Medical Laboratory Science, the combined program allows completion of both a bachelor’s and a master’s in less time than if both degrees were completed separately.

M.S./B.S. Details

Complete a core CDS curriculum consisting of areas such as pathology, statistics in health, and research. Then, based on your concentration, choose from electives in the areas of genetics, pharmacology, virology, endocrinologic, immunohematology and more to customize your degree towards your professional and academic goals. View the course catalog for detailed curricular requirements.

The Master of Science in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences aims to encourage healthcare professionals to obtain additional training and develop critical thinking skills to advance in their profession.

Program Goals

• Demonstrate mastery of clinical and diagnostic sciences
• Analyze, review and interpret health biomarker data
• Apply knowledge of evidence-based practice to critically evaluate clinical case examples
• Participate in research projects or independent study designed to expand knowledge within the discipline
• Promote diversity and inclusion in research, teaching, public service and training across campus and in neighboring communities 

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

• Apply the advanced knowledge and technical skills needed to serve as active contributors and/or leaders in the clinical and diagnostic science profession
• Critically review, appraise and synthesize biomedical sciences literature
• Identify and systematically investigate research questions pertinent to healthcare practice
• Synthesize new concepts, models and theories through the appropriate application of empirical knowledge and the scientific method to help resolve health sciences issues or problems
• Apply current knowledge to evaluate or design more effective ways to deliver clinical laboratory and health-related services
• Use a variety of information technologies to address both theoretical and practical problems, enhance communication and disseminate knowledge to applicable audiences and interest groups
• Demonstrate proficiency in oral and written communication, using both scholarly and technical formats
• Work collaboratively with others to advance the scientific bases of knowledge in laboratory science via ongoing scholarship
• Integrate basic principles of ethics and cultural sensitivity within all interpersonal and professional activities

Minimum requirements for admission to graduate study:

• Online Application for Admission to Oakland University Graduate School
• Official transcripts providing evidence of an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited U.S. institution, OR a degree equivalent to a four-year U.S. baccalaureate degree from a college or university of government-recognized standing
• Official transcripts for all post-secondary educational institutions from which the applicant earned a degree (beginning with the first baccalaureate) and for all enrollment in graduate-level coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree.
• International university transcripts must be evaluated by a professional credential evaluation service. Oakland University will only accept transcript evaluations completed by a NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation service) member organization. Many applicants use World Educational Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE). NACES membership can be confirmed by visiting the NACES website.
• Two official and original Recommendation for Graduate Admission forms.
• Proof of English language proficiency
• International supplemental application and supporting documentation must be submitted before international applicants can be issued the Certification of Eligibility (I-20). This certificate is required to apply for a student visa from the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Prerequisite coursework

Students in the traditional MS program must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university, and the following prerequisite courses (or equivalent):

1. Biology: Biology I, Physiology, Microbiology
2. Math: College Algebra

The minimum grade of B (3.0) must be earned in each prerequisite course. 

All prerequisite courses must be completed at the time of application.

Application Deadlines

• Fall semester: July 15
• Winter semester: November 15
• Summer semester: March 1

Upon graduating, you will be prepared for a variety of careers, including but not limited to:

• Administrative/management
• Clinical educator
• Advanced practice specialist
• Lead technical specialist
• Technical supervisor

Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in health care occupations is projected to grow much faster than average in the next decade, resulting in about 1.8 million job openings annually. Additionally, employment of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is expected to increase by 5%.

Average Salary

As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2023, the median annual salary for a bachelor’s-level clinical laboratory technologist and technician is $60,780, while the median annual salary graduate-level medical scientists is $100,890. Compensation for management leadership positions varies in range.

Dr. Dale Telgenhoff
Associate Professor and Coordinator
Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences
[email protected]