Introduction
Our Specialist in Blood Bank (SBB) Technology Certificate Program is intended for experienced medical laboratory scientists seeking advanced knowledge of immunohematology and related disciplines. It can help you advance to a career as a blood bank technologist.
The program enables you to do the following:
- Gain knowledge in an exciting field
- Expand your job opportunities and earning potential
- Communicate with other peer professionals
- Review blood bank problems and case studies with in-depth discussions
- Earn graduate credit
While enrolled in the program, you may also complete the Master of Science in Clinical Laboratory Management option.
These programs prepare you for the SBB and diplomat in laboratory management certification examinations offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP).
Eligibility requirements for these certifications are available on the ASCP website.
SBB coursework transfer policy: If you have received SBB training from an accredited program outside of Rush University, you may receive up to 11 credit hours for your equivalent coursework after successfully completing a departmental evaluation.
Our approach to training future specialists in blood bank technology
We use a teacher-practitioner model. This means your teachers are experienced practitioners in their fields.
Students in the SBB Certificate Program gain advanced skills in blood component preparation, testing and quality assurance. You will train to become a specialist in blood bank technology through our accredited and flexible program.
Our Blood Bank Technology Certificate meets national standards and supports eligibility for certification exams. Our certification exam pass rates far exceed the national average.
2024 SBB program outcomes
First time examinees from the total population this cycle (includes only students from 2024), updated as students take the exam:
| 2024 | Rush program | National |
|---|---|---|
| Number of examinees | 9 | 169 |
| Percent passing | 89% | 52% |
2023 SBB program outcomes
First time examinees from the total population this cycle (includes only students from 2023), updated as students take the exam:
| 2023 | Rush program | National |
|---|---|---|
| Number of examinees | 8 | 178 |
| Percent passing | 88% | 54% |
| Percent failing | 12% | 46% |
2022 SBB program outcomes
First time examinees from the total population this cycle (includes only students from 2022), updated as students take the exam:
| 2022 | Rush program | National |
|---|---|---|
| Number of eligible examinees | 14 | 185 |
| Percent passing | 83% | 48% |
| Percent failing | 17% | 52% |
2021 SBB program outcomes
First time examinees from the total population this cycle (includes only students from 2021), updated as students take the exam:
| 2021 | Rush program | National |
|---|---|---|
| Number of examinees | 15 | 179 |
| Percent passing | 70% | 55% |
| Percent failing | 30% | 45% |
Accreditation for the Blood Bank Technology Certificate program
The Rush University SBB certificate program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Specialist in Blood Bank Technology and Transfusion Medicine.
Program length and location
Our Specialist in Blood Bank Technology Certificate is an online program that takes one year — six courses — to complete.
Please note that there are online study restrictions for non-Illinois residents and international students.
Clinical experiences may be arranged at blood centers and hospitals near your home. In some cases, your place of employment may qualify.
If you have prior clinical experience, you may be eligible to earn credit by proficiency based on a standardized departmental evaluation.
Program tuition
We know your education is a big investment. We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make the best financial decisions for you and your family.
Tuition for the Specialist in Blood Bank Technology certificate program is $1,031 per credit.
Blood bank technology career opportunities for certified blood bank technologists
Specialists in blood bank technology perform and supervise both routine and specialized tests in blood centers and hospital-based transfusion services.
Our graduates are prepared to function as managers, educators, researchers or technical consultants. You will be able to work as part of the health care team in providing care to donors and patients.
The Specialist in Blood Bank Technology Certificate is ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers in immunohematology and blood banking.
College of Health SciencesAssociate ProfessorDepartment of Medical Laboratory Science
College of Health SciencesAssociate ProfessorDepartment of Medical Laboratory Science
Laurie Gillard, MS, MLS(ASCP)SBB(ASCP)
(312) 942-2402
laurie_gillard@rush.edu
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