Background. In 2009, Curtin University, converted the AIMS accredited, Medical Science degree to a 4 year Bachelor of Science (Laboratory Medicine) degree. The restructured course incorporates a 28 week professional practice component comprising 4 seven week discipline placements. The aim was to produce ‘job-ready’ graduates. The program was evaluated for its effectiveness in student development and for associated industry benefits.

Methodology. A survey of 30 students and 64 laboratory supervisors was conducted at the completion of the clinical placement period. Students answered questions relating to skills acquired, adapting to the workplace and career perception. Laboratory supervisors were asked to comment on implications of increased training and student contribution in the workplace.

Findings. 16 (53%) of students responded. 175 (91%) of the responses given to the 12 statements in the survey were positive. 16 (100%) indicated they had gained valuable experience through the program. Of the 64 supervisors invited to participate in the survey 47 (73%) responded. 46 (98%) indicated that the clinical laboratory placement program was a valuable initiative for both parties and 29 (66%) reported that the increased training load associated with the program did not adversely affect the productivity of the laboratory.

Conclusion. The clinical placement program provides students with supportive environments in which to gain skills, knowledge and confidence in applied laboratory medicine. The participating laboratories that implemented a structured training and intra-departmental rotational program were perceived by students to provide a better learning environment. Overall, the benefits of the program were perceived by supervisors to outweigh the negative impact of an increased training load.