Electives — Electives are selected to complement the student’s career objectives and provide requisite knowledge to complete the research project. Suggested courses include CLSC 5036 and CLSC 5037.

Thesis — All Master of Science students are required to complete a research thesis for the degree. The thesis must be related to an existing clinical problem in forensic/analytic toxicology or blood banking/transfusion services or pater­nity testing. A research mentor will be selected to assist the student in completing the research project.

IMMUNOHEMATOLOGY TRACK

During the first year, the student participates in the Specialist in Blood Banking Program offered jointly by UTHSCSA and University Hospital. Students enroll in lectures and practicums de­signed to provide specialized knowledge for transfusion services, donor services, and HLA testing. Practicums are at University Hospital and other facilities throughout San Antonio and the state. Continuation in the program is contingent on passing the Specialist in Blood Banking examination given by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

The Specialist in Blood Banking Program is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), 8101 Glenbrook Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-2749; phone (301) 907-6977; fax (301) 907-6895; e-mail aabb@aabb.org, in cooperation with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), 35 East Wacker Drive, Suite 1970, Chicago, Illinois 60601, phone (312) 553-9355.

Any remaining core graduate courses (above) must be completed in the second year. Electives will be used to complement the student’s career objectives and provide the requisite knowledge to complete the research project.