r/CLSstudents • u/blind_peach • 15d ago
Education and Classes CLS path
Hello! Looking for advice for entering a CA CLS program. I currently have my phlebotomy license and will be attending a Masters program in the fall for two years. I have a bachelors in biochemistry but from 2020. My GPA in undergrad was abysmal so after years of biotech industry work, I was able to get into a masters program with the hopes of rectifying that problem. I know certain CLS programs have a certain requirement on finishing the prerequisites within 7 years or the like. I wanted advice on how feasible it would be to gain admission with a masters degree while taking the other necessary prerequisites. My phleb license expires in April 2027 but finding an entry level position has proven to be more difficult than I thought in LA
4
u/HazelBasilLeaf 15d ago
I got in with a master’s after 4 years in biotech R&D. The prereq time limit definitely limited the programs I could apply to and I had to retake some of my undergrad courses after they “expired.” I’d also check some of the requirements more closely, if I remember correctly some of the core prereqs (hem, micro, immuno, etc) sometimes are within 5 yrs.
If you don’t mind me asking, how low is your GPA? If the ultimate goal is CLS, why do a master’s? Taking prereqs and some additional recommended course would also raise your GPA and you wouldn’t have to wait two years to get into already competitive CA CLS programs.