Clinical Laboratory Assistant Certificate
The Clinical Laboratory Assistant (CLA) Certificate Program at Central Arizona College offers a focused and comprehensive pathway into the medical laboratory field. Designed for individuals seeking entry-level employment in clinical and diagnostic laboratories, this program provides the foundational skills and hands-on training necessary to thrive in a fast-paced healthcare environment. Students are prepared to assist medical laboratory professionals by performing critical support tasks that contribute to accurate patient diagnosis and treatment.
Offered at the Signal Peak campus, the CLA Certificate Program is ideal for recent high school graduates, GED students and high school seniors graduating, or healthcare professionals looking to broaden their clinical skill set. The curriculum blends classroom instruction, laboratory simulation, and supervised clinical experiences to ensure graduates are workforce-ready.
Program Information
The Clinical Laboratory Assistant Certificate is a 28-credit hour program that typically spans two semesters (Fall and Spring). It emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application in the areas of phlebotomy, specimen processing, laboratory safety, and fundamental diagnostic procedures. Students also develop communication skills, critical thinking, and professional behavior essential for working in healthcare settings.
Key Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the CLA program will be able to:
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Demonstrate competence in phlebotomy and blood specimen collection techniques.
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Perform specimen processing and basic laboratory procedures in accordance with safety and quality assurance protocols.
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Use medical terminology and documentation standards to support laboratory operations.
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Communicate effectively with patients, peers, and supervisors in clinical settings.
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Adhere to ethical standards and legal guidelines within a laboratory environment.
Admissions Process
To enroll in the CLA Certificate Program, students must:
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Possess a high school diploma or GED, or be a current high school senior.
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Provide proof of current CPR (American Heart Association BLS) and First Aid certification before the practicum.
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Approval from Program Director is required nancy.juarez@centralaz.edu.
Related Occupations
Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.
* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.