Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology
Overview
Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists (CLXTs) are multi-skilled health professionals who perform core laboratory tests, general diagnostic radiography and electrocardiograms (ECGs) to support timely diagnosis and patient care. Assiniboine College’s Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology program prepares students with the knowledge, technical abilities and professional competencies to work in community hospitals and health centres in rural and remote communities across Manitoba.
This rigorous program blends classroom theory with extensive hands-on learning in on-campus labs, as well as clinical education experience. Students gain practical skills in specimen collection and handling, hematology, blood bank, clinical chemistry and urinalysis; master ECG acquisition and interpretation fundamentals; and learn radiographic patient care, positioning, image acquisition, and safe operation of equipment while focusing on quality, safety, interprofessional communication, and culturally responsive, patient-centered practice. The program includes 29 weeks of supervised clinical placement in healthcare facilities, building real-world confidence and competency across both disciplines.
A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is strongly recommended given the potential need to travel for clinical placement to rural and remote locations within Manitoba.
See also our Medical Laboratory Technology program.
The new Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology program is coming soon to Assiniboine! Applications for this program are not yet open. Sign up for our interest list to receive more information as soon as it's available.
Program Learning Outcomes
By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Perform specimen procurement and processing (e.g., venipuncture, body fluids) using correct identification, labelling, handling, and transport protocols to ensure specimen integrity and patient safety.
- Apply foundational knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, radiographic principles, and medical terminology to interpret orders and support patient-centred laboratory and imaging services.
- Operate laboratory analyzers and equipment (e.g., centrifuges, microscopes) and general radiographic systems (CR/DR, fixed and mobile) in accordance with manufacturer instructions, institutional procedures, and safety standards.
- Perform pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical laboratory procedures within the CLXT scope (e.g., hematology, chemistry, transfusion science, urinalysis), by validating and correlating results and acting on critical values.
- Acquire general diagnostic radiographs and electrocardiograms (stationary or mobile units) by verifying identity/consent, positioning safely (including trauma/limited mobility/pain/distress), selecting technique factors, and evaluating image quality prior to transmission for interpretation.
- Integrate LIS/RIS/PACS (Laboratory Information System, Radiology Information System, and Picture Archiving and Communication System) and related informatics to register patients, manage orders, enter/verify results, transmit images, and maintain accurate, confidential, and secure records.
- Implement quality assurance and quality control across laboratory and imaging (e.g., equipment warm-ups/calibration, internal/external quality control, reject/retake analysis) to meet accreditation and continuous-improvement requirements.
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and interprofessional teams to obtain cooperation, provide clear instructions, de-escalate distress, and contribute to coordinated care in diverse clinical and educational settings.
- Safeguard patients, self, coworkers, and the public by applying radiation protection (ALARA, dosimetry, pregnancy screening, shielding), infection prevention and control, and occupational health and safety practices.
- Practice ethical, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed care while upholding privacy and confidentiality, including culturally safe engagement with Indigenous and rural/remote communities.
- Evaluate laboratory and imaging workflow issues through critical thinking and informed decision-making.
- Coordinate concurrent laboratory and radiography duties in rural or remote practice by prioritizing STAT/urgent requests, meeting on-call responsibilities, maintaining inventory, and completing essential clerical tasks.
Success Factors
You might be a good fit for this program if you:
- Enjoy helping people and contributing to patient care
- Are comfortable working directly with patients of all ages
- Are comfortable working with blood and other bodily specimens
- Have strong attention to detail and value accuracy in your work
- Can follow strict safety protocols and procedures
- Are interested in medical science, anatomy, or diagnostic testing
- Communicate effectively and professionally in team environments
- Value ethical practices that maintain patient confidentiality and public safety
- Are calm under pressure and able to manage tasks in a busy clinical setting
- Are comfortable using computers, laboratory software, and automated equipment
- Are interested in a fast-paced, hands-on program
The program and industry environment often requires individuals to:
- Attend class in-person for full-time hours (27-36 hours depending on term)
- Work in clinical laboratories and diagnostic imaging areas with potential exposure to ionizing radiation, infectious materials, sharps, and chemical hazards.
- Demonstrate strong technical abilities including fine motor control, good manual dexterity, visual acuity, and accurate colour discrimination
- Stand or sit for extended periods and complete repetitive fine-motor tasks (e.g., phlebotomy, microscopy, image acquisition).
- Position, transfer and immobilize patients safely to obtain quality radiographic images while applying radiation-protection practices.
- Collect and process specimens directly from patients (venipuncture/capillary) and perform ECGs with professionalism, empathy and clear communication.
- Wear personal protection equipment (PPE) and follow infection-control and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) procedures; handle and dispose of hazardous and biohazardous materials appropriately.
- Follow precise protocols and perform tasks accurately under time pressure
- Maintain patient confidentiality and uphold professional codes of conduct while collaborating within interprofessional teams and diverse patient populations.
- Adapt to evolving technologies and rotating schedules (including early mornings, evenings, weekends, on-call)
- Be ready for rural/independent practice settings.
Admissions
As this is a new program for September 2027, admission requirements to this program are being finalized and subject to change. This notice will be removed when final admission requirements are set.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission, applicants must have completed Manitoba Grade 12 or equivalent, including the following required courses:
- English 40G/40S or equivalent with a minimum mark of 70%
- Pre-Calculus, Applied or Essential Math 40S or equivalent with minimum mark of 70%
- Biology 30S and Biology 40S or equivalent with minimum mark of 70%
- Chemistry 40S or equivalent with a minimum mark of 70%
Post-secondary level courses may be used to satisfy subject prerequisites.
If you received your education outside of Manitoba, please review the equivalent admission requirements: Interprovincial or International.
DON'T MEET ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS?
If you don’t meet admission requirements, visit our Centre for Adult Learning to upgrade courses.
Competitive Entry
The Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology program has limited spaces; admission is competitive. The following items are required to be considered for admissions and will be evaluated in the competitive entry assessment.
CASPer © 2 Test Score
- Applicants will be required to take the CASPer © 2 test, an online situational judgment assessment. CASPer is designed to evaluate key personal and professional attributes such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving, which are important for success in healthcare fields.
- The CASPer assessment will not be available to take until one year before the program start date. More information on the CASPer assessment will be available here once it is confirmed.
Letter of Intent
- Applicants will required to submit a letter of intent. This letter is an opportunity for applicants to share their interest in the program, their motivation for pursuing a career as a CLXT, and how their goals and strengths align with the field.
- More information about the letter of intent, including a guide for what to include, will be available here once it is confirmed.
English Language Proficiency
English is the language of instruction at Assiniboine. All applicants educated outside of Canada or in a country not on the test exempt list are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirements.
Immunizations, Checks and Certifications
The following will be required for admission into the program. Because many items on this list are time-limited, we do not recommend you pursue these requirements until closer to the program. More information will be provided when program applications open.
Certifications:
- Proof of current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Level Health Care Provider (CPR-HCP)
Checks:
- Criminal Record Check (with Vulnerable Sector Check)
- Child Abuse Registry Check
- Adult Abuse Registry Check
In some instances, applicants with a criminal record or listed on the Child Abuse and/or Adult Abuse Registry may not be admitted to the program. If you fall into one of these categories, please contact the Dean of Health and Human Services prior to applying.
Immunizations:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Immunization Record or lab results showing immunity (positive antibody titres)
- Hepatitis B Vaccination Record showing all 3 doses or a positive Hepatitis B surface antibody titer. Students may attend if they are in progress toward completing the 3-dose series and have received at least one dose
- Varicella Vaccine
- Meningococcal Vaccine
- Polio Vaccine
- Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccine
- Tdap Adult Does (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
- Tuberculosis (TB) Screening:
- 2-step Mantoux test (if this is the initial test)
- 1-step Mantoux test (for subsequent annual tests)
- Or a Chest X-ray (if applicable)
Careers & Connections
Thiprogram aims to prepare graduates for success on the national entry-to-practice exam, required for licensure with the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Manitoba (CMLTM). With licensure, graduates may pursue careers as Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists across Manitoba.
Career Opportunities
Workplaces and Employers
- Rural Community Hospital and Health Centre (Shared Health Manitoba)
Job Titles
- Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologist
Tools & Supplies
Program Checklists, Textbooks, and Supplies
A list of textbooks and supplies will be posted here once it is confirmed.
Assiniboine Bookstore
Textbooks, supplies and uniforms may be purchased at the Assiniboine Bookstore at the Victoria Avenue East Campus. Booklists, tool lists and supply lists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program.
Technology Requirements
Students in this program are required to bring their own laptop for use on-campus. The laptop must meet the technical needs outlined by the program. Mac computing devices are not compatible with program software. See Technology Requirements for detailed information.
Courses & Costs
A full listing of courses and estimated costs will be posted here once it is confirmed.