Clinical Applications Specialists

High School

In high school, take classes in biology, chemistry, health, physics, mathematics, and computer science. You’ll need strong writing and oral communication skills, so be sure to take speech and English courses.

Postsecondary Education

Educational requirements for clinical applications specialists vary by employer and job duties. At a few firms, CASs may need just a high school diploma and on-the-job training, but the majority of employers require at least an associate’s, but preferably a bachelor’s, degree. Some CASs have degrees in information technology. Others have degrees in nursing, biomedical engineering, medical informatics, biomedical equipment repair, radiography, radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, diagnostic medical sonography, or other health-related fields.

Certification

Many community colleges and four-year universities offer certificates in allied health, medical technology, information technology, and other areas that might be of interest to clinical applications specialists. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Clinical applications specialists continue to learn throughout their careers via classes and seminars on current or new products provided by their employers, or by pursuing continuing education opportunities that are offered by professional associations in their practice areas. For example, members of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists can take classes in areas such as radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, radiation therapy, and sonography, as well as courses in leadership and patient care and safety.