Available for sale: January 1, 2012
Sold Until: December 31, 2012
Program Access Available: January 1, 2012-July 15, 2013

The program is composed of nine courses, which can be completed online in 1-4 hours each. Each course contains a lecture, required reading, and a quiz, and may include resource materials. There are opportunities for interaction with faculty and other participants using the AACC certificate programs’ dedicated LinkedIn group discussion board. You can earn 12 continuing education units for completing the entire program.

• Basics of Mass Spectrometry Theory
• Basics of Liquid Chromatography Theory
• Setting up a Clinical Mass Spectrometry Laboratory
• Maintenance and Troubleshooting of LC-MS/MS
• Making Accurate Calibrators and High Purity Reagents for LC-MS/MS Methods
• Principles and Best Practices for Quantitation Using LC-MS/MS
• Validation of LC-MS/MS Methods
• Tips for Achieving and Maintaining Consistent High Quality Production in a Clinical Mass Spectrometry Laboratory
• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) in Clinical Laboratories

This program was developed to provide laboratorians with an understanding of nine different areas within mass spectrometry. The faculty recognizes the nuances of training within the field and worked to provide participants with important tips and hints for practical application within their own laboratories.

After completing this program, participants will be able to:

• Understand and apply the basic principles of chromatography and mass spectrometry theory that are needed for routine operation of clinical mass spectrometry systems
• Be familiar with common maintenance protocols and troubleshooting procedures for LC-MS/MS instruments, including practical tips for obtaining consistent, high-quality results in a clinical laboratory service environment
• List six important steps to take in preparing for installation of an LC-MSMS instrument and start up of a clinical mass spectrometry laboratory
• Describe detailed steps for preparing accurate standards, high purity reagents, CAP compliant validation protocols, and precise quantitation procedures for LC-MSMS methods

Developed with all levels of laboratory professionals in mind, the content of this program is at the basic to intermediate level and will provide participants with opportunities to increase their knowledge of mass spectrometry.

AACC and the faculty created this nine-course certificate program to present the essentials of mass spectrometry. The expert faculty are experienced educators who have extensive knowledge and experience in this field.