Interested in an impactful, accessible career as a phlebotomist? Discover everything you need to know about phlebotomy training and securing a career.

If you’ve ever had your blood drawn at a clinic, hospital, or donation center, you’ve seen a phlebotomist in action before. Phlebotomy—the process of drawing blood from a vein or capillary—is a vital function of healthcare. It plays a critical role in detecting disease, monitoring conditions, conducting research, and even saving lives.

And behind every vial of blood? There is a skilled phlebotomist ensuring the process is safe, accurate, and as comfortable as possible for the patient. Because phlebotomists don’t simply draw blood; they ease patients’ anxieties, ensure safety protocols are followed, and facilitate medical breakthroughs.

If you’re looking for a hands-on healthcare career that doesn’t require years of schooling, phlebotomy training could be the perfect first step. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, answering questions like:

• What do phlebotomists do?
• Where do phlebotomists work?
• What are the phlebotomist training requirements?
• What will I learn in a phlebotomy training program?
• How long is phlebotomy training?
• What career opportunities are available?
• What’s required to get into a phlebotomy training program?

Let’s explore this important industry, answer your questions on the subject, and break down just how you can prepare for a promising career in the field – starting right here, at Goodwin.

What do phlebotomists do?

Phlebotomists are healthcare professionals who collect blood from patients for medical testing, donations, transfusions, and research. These professionals ensure that blood samples are drawn safely, that the proper amount is taken, and that all blood is properly labeled. Most phlebotomists also explain their work to patients as they go and provide assistance if patients have adverse reactions after their blood is drawn.

The process of drawing blood is done through a venipuncture, which plebotomists are experts at. Once the blood is drawn, phlebotomists take the specimens to the laboratory for analysis.

Phlebotomists are crucial for facilitating lab testing, transfusions, research, and blood donations. Their work is also important for making diagnoses, detecting abnormalities, and monitoring patients’ overall health.

Where do phlebotomists work?

There are a number of facilities where phlebotomists are needed – meaning many settings in which you can work! These include:

• Clinics
• Hospitals
• Insurance companies
• Nursing homes
• Outpatient laboratories
• Physician’s offices

What are the phlebotomist training requirements?

To become a phlebotomist today, you typically need to complete a postsecondary training program. There are a variety of healthcare programs that offer phlebotomy training, either as the primary focus or as a supplement to other health-related skill sets.

For example, at Goodwin University, students can:

• Complete a 15-week Phlebotomy certificate program to get into the field fast, or
• Pursue a three-semester, versatile Patient Care Associate (PCA) certificate, which offers in-depth phlebotomy training and internships alongside CNA and EKG training

No matter the program you choose, Phlebotomy programs generally take less than one year to complete. They offer a fast track into healthcare while providing an in-depth, specialized skillset.

In addition to an approved Phlebotomy program, you may also need to complete a license or certification. This depends on the state in which you want to work and reside, as well as the requirements of your prospective employer. Be sure to do your research about phlebotomist training requirements prior to getting started.

What will I learn in a Phlebotomy training program?

Phlebotomy training programs are designed to prepare you with the knowledge, techniques, and ethics needed to work with patients in a clinical laboratory setting. As such, classes will cover topics like:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• CPR/First Aid & Basic Crisis Intervention
• Medical Terminology
• Introduction to Laboratory Services
• Principles & Practice of Phlebotomy
• Advanced Phlebotomy Techniques

Additionally, some Phlebotomy training programs will require you to complete a practical experience, such as an internship. This hands-on training allows students to put their learned skills into practice in a real-life setting, working with real equipment and patients, under the direction of certified professionals.

How long is phlebotomy training?

Phlebotomy training programs vary in length and commitment, but generally can be completed in one year or less.

At Goodwin, the Phlebotomy certificate program can be completed in just 15 weeks. Meanwhile, the Patient Care Associate program, which includes phlebotomy training, CNA training, EKG training, and internship experiences, can be completed in just three semesters (or 42 weeks).

For added flexibility, the phlebotomy school at Goodwin offers three class starts per year, so you can apply at any time and take the classes you need when they are available! This will help you start your training quickly, before jump-starting your exciting new career.

What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Phlebotomists are needed at all corners of healthcare, from hospitals and doctors’ offices to laboratory and research facilities. However, beyond phlebotomy training, your career prospects aren’t limited to the title of “phlebotomist.” Many graduates also go on to pursue careers as:

• Certified phlebotomy technicians
• Certified nursing assistants
• Clinical support technicians
• EKG technicians
• Laboratory assistants
• Specimen processors

What’s required to get into a phlebotomy training program?

Phlebotomy training programs aren’t simply a fast track into the healthcare field; they are also very straightforward when it comes to applying! At Goodwin, for example, the application requirements are simple for both PCA and Phlebotomy program candidates:

• Complete an application for admission to Goodwin University
• Interview with an Admissions Officer
• Pay a $50 application fee (unless waived)
• Submit proof of high school graduation or equivalent, or sign a Certification of Attainment of a high school diploma or equivalent
• Arrange to take the English and math placement evaluations prior to registration, if required
• Submit proof of immunizations (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella), to ensure you can work with patients safely
• Send your official college transcript to Goodwin if you’ve previously completed college credits or a degree

Learn more about our admissions requirements and how to apply here!

Didn’t see your question posed here? Goodwin University’s admissions team are available to answer your questions and more. Contact us at 800-889-3282 to speak with our team now, or visit us online to learn more.