M.S. in Clinical Laboratory Sciences

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

1. Minimum Percentage: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UNM typically need to have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement is usually a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) equivalent to 60% or above on a 4.0 scale. UNM may also consider equivalent grading systems from other countries.
    

English Language Proficiency Requirements:

1. IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or higher, with no individual band score less than 6.0.  

2. TOEFL iBT: The minimum TOEFL iBT score requirement is often 79 or higher.  

3. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum PTE score of 53 is required.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of New Mexico:

1. Global Education Office Scholarships: UNM's Global Education Office (GEO) offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and can be awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students. They may cover tuition and fees, living expenses, or a combination of both.

2. International Amigo Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at fostering cultural exchange and friendship between international students and the local community. It provides financial assistance to international students while also encouraging them to engage in community service and cultural outreach activities.

3. Graduate Assistantships: UNM offers graduate assistantships to qualified international graduate students. These assistantships may involve teaching, research, or administrative duties. They often come with a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance benefits.

4. College or Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within UNM may have their own scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, research interests, or other criteria relevant to the department.

5. Private and External Scholarships: UNM encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by international foundations, government agencies, and private organizations. The Global Education Office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for such scholarships.

6. Fulbright Scholarships: UNM participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students, scholars, and professionals. The university assists eligible international applicants in the Fulbright application process.

7. Cultural and Country-Specific Scholarships: Some cultural or country-specific organizations and foundations offer scholarships to students from particular regions or countries. International students should research opportunities related to their background and nationality.

8. Merit-Based Scholarships: UNM awards merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.

9. Research Scholarships: International graduate students in research-intensive programs may have the opportunity to receive research scholarships from faculty members conducting research projects. These scholarships often include a stipend and tuition support.

10. Diversity Scholarships: UNM is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. Some scholarships are awarded to international students who contribute to the university's diversity through their experiences, backgrounds, or interests.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary from year to year. Additionally, students are encouraged to meet academic and application requirements to enhance their chances of receiving scholarships.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Laboratory Sciences program at the University of New Mexico (UNM) is a dynamic and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in clinical laboratory management, research, and healthcare. Graduates of this program have a wide range of career opportunities awaiting them, both in traditional clinical laboratory settings and beyond.  

1. Clinical Laboratory Management: Graduates of this program are well-equipped to assume leadership roles in clinical laboratories. They can work as laboratory managers, overseeing daily operations, quality control, personnel management, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. These professionals play a crucial role in the efficient functioning of diagnostic laboratories in healthcare institutions.

2. Research and Development: Many M.S. in Clinical Laboratory Sciences graduates choose to pursue careers in research and development. They can work in research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, or biotechnology firms, contributing to the development of new diagnostic tests, medical technologies, and treatments. Their expertise in laboratory techniques and data analysis is highly valuable in these roles.

3. Clinical Laboratory Education: Some graduates opt to become educators, sharing their knowledge and expertise with the next generation of clinical laboratory professionals. They can work as faculty members in educational institutions, teaching laboratory techniques, research methods, and the latest advancements in clinical laboratory sciences.

4. Public Health Laboratories: Graduates may find opportunities in public health laboratories where they play a critical role in disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, and ensuring the safety of the community. They may work with government agencies or health departments in roles related to epidemiology, environmental health, and laboratory management.

5. Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Industries: The biomedical and pharmaceutical sectors often seek M.S. graduates in Clinical Laboratory Sciences to support their research, product development, and quality assurance efforts. They may work in pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, or contract research organizations.

6. Healthcare Informatics: With the increasing integration of technology in healthcare, graduates with a background in clinical laboratory sciences are in demand in healthcare informatics. They can work on managing and analyzing healthcare data, ensuring the accuracy and security of patient information.

7. Regulatory Compliance: Graduates with knowledge of clinical laboratory regulations and quality assurance standards are sought after for roles in regulatory compliance. They can work with agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or in consulting firms that specialize in compliance and accreditation services.

8. Translational Research: Some graduates bridge the gap between laboratory research and patient care by working in translational research roles. They help translate scientific discoveries into practical applications for patient diagnosis and treatment.

9. Continuing Education and Certification: Many graduates pursue professional certifications in areas such as medical laboratory science (MLS) or clinical laboratory management to further enhance their career prospects and expertise.