Online Phlebotomy Certification and Degree Programs

<h3 id="section---WhatKindsOfPhlebotomyDegreesAndCertificatesCanIEarnOnline">What Kinds of Phlebotomy Degrees and Certificates Can I Earn Online?</h3> <p>Unfortunately are no programs that offer phlebotomy training exclusively online. However, you can enroll in associate's degree, diploma and certificate programs that combine hands-on clinical experiences with online coursework. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Options</b></td><td>Hybrid associate's degree, certificate, diploma</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Prerequisites</b></td><td>High school diploma or GED, proof of current vaccinations, medical insurance, usually background check and drug screening</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Coursework</b></td><td>Phlebotomy theory, patient privacy, lab procedures, infection prevention, lab safety</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Clinical Work</b></td><td>Collect blood, collect urine</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Licensure</b></td><td>Complete training, state exam, optional: national phlebotomy certification</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td> $36,320 (<i>for all phlebotomists</i>)*</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td> 17% growth (<i>for all phlebotomists</i>)*</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <p>How Do I Become a Phlebotomist? </p> <p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most medical technologists working as phlebotomists hold a 2-year or 4-year degree from an accredited institution (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). However, you can also complete your training through the armed services as well as a certificate or diploma program. </p> <p>Many states require phlebotomists to be registered or licensed. After you complete a training program recognized by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, you can sit for the appropriate exam in your state administered by its department of public health. Similarly, you can complete a program recognized by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools or Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs before sitting for any state-mandated exam. </p> <p>You can also earn the Certified Phlebotomy Technician or the Registered Phlebotomy Technician credential for professional recognition beyond that of a certificate or diploma program. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatDoINeedToEnroll">What Do I Need to Enroll?</h3> <p>Aside from a high school diploma or GED, you'll need proof of current vaccinations to enroll in a phlebotomy program. Medical insurance is required for students completing the in-person clinical experience. Many programs will require all students to pass a background check and drug screening. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3> <p>You can complete the foundational coursework of a certificate or diploma program online before any hands-on clinical work. These courses cover phlebotomy theory, patient privacy, lab procedures and how to prevent infections. You'll also learn about specimen collection, lab safety, communicating with patients and how to handle specimens before you complete clinical requirements. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAboutTheInPersonRequirements">What About the In-Person Requirements?</h3> <p>During clinical experiences, you'll learn how to collect blood, urine and other specimens under the supervision of a medical technologist in a hospital or clinical setting. The school you've enrolled in will usually send you to an affiliated hospital or clinic. Phlebotomy programs that are recognized by a professional body in the field require that you complete clinical experience.</p>