Comparative Analysis of Overseas Education and Certification Systems for Korea’s Four-year Curriculum Reform in Clinical Laboratory Science

This study compared the education, certification systems, and competency standards of clinical laboratory scientists in major countries with South Korea’s current three- and four-year structures, aiming to justify a unified four-year bachelor’s program. The policy, licensing, and educational documents from international bodies (WHO, IFCC, and IFBLS) and key countries (USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Japan, and Taiwan) were analyzed using a qualitative comparative framework (June~August 2025). The Korean curricula were reviewed and categorized by ISO 15189 standards and ASCP MLT/MLS exam domains for comparison. The findings show that most advanced countries adopt a standardized four-year curriculum emphasizing advanced competencies such as clinical reasoning, digital healthcare, molecular diagnostics, and laboratory management. By contrast, Korea’s dual-track system lacks curricular consistency and specialization, and its national licensing examination does not distinguish competencies according to education level. A unified four-year program would align Korea with global standards, strengthen professional expertise, and expand the competitiveness of graduates in an increasingly technology- driven healthcare market. This change represents administrative reform and a strategic measure to secure international equivalence, address workforce modernization, and improve healthcare quality. Ultimately, transitioning to a standardized fouryear curriculum would prepare future-ready professionals and reinforce Korea’s leadership in global laboratory medicine.