The clinical laboratory science programs at EKU have earned re-accreditation.

After an extensive review process, the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) awarded full seven-year accreditation to both the associate degree program in Clinical Laboratory Technology (CLT) and the baccalaureate degree program in Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS). Both programs have been continuously accredited since 1981.

The accreditation process, which takes about two years to complete, included an extensive self-study document prepared by EKU's CLS faculty. After a review of the self-study report, the accreditation team visited the Eastern campus to examine all aspects of the programs.

"National accreditation underscores the high-quality programs in Clinical Laboratory science at EKU," said Dr. David Hufford, program director. "Graduates of the CLT and CLS programs at EKU are eligible to pursue national certification as clinical laboratory practitioners by national certifying agencies.

"Presently, there is a nationwide shortage of qualified clinical laboratory practitioners," Hufford noted. "Because of the outstanding clinical laboratory science programs at Eastern, graduates will have the necessary preparation to find excellent career opportunities."

About 90 students are pursuing degrees in the CLT and CLS programs. "Virtually all our graduates find employment in the field, and most remain in the EKU service region," Hufford said.

For more information about the programs, call 859-622-3078.