Career Pathway Certificate

About the Program

The phlebotomy program is a one-term program that prepares students to become certified phlebotomists. Phlebotomists use proper prioritization procedures and coordinate collection of all phlebotomy specimens with other lab personnel. They must consistently provide phlebotomy services appropriate to the age and condition of patients to minimize re-draws (i.e., proper amounts, correct samples) and must strictly adhere to patient identification protocols as specified by regulatory requirements. This includes demonstrating knowledge of all patient safety precautions such as isolations and safety devices. In this role, it is important to use independent judgment in following established venipuncture procedures along with the ability to inspire confidence in, and communicate effectively with, unit secretaries, therapists, medical staff and visitors. This means demonstrating composure and organizational skills in handling crisis situations and effectively handling multiple tasks simultaneously in times of heavy workload.

Successful completion of the program prepares students to sit for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) phlebotomy certification exam (CPT.) Students do not automatically become certified through this program but may take the appropriate tests through NHA after completing the program. The curriculum was written using the standards and guidelines for the NHA phlebotomy certifications and can be reviewed at https://www.nhanow.com/certifications/phlebotomy-technician.

Program Learning Outcomes

The curriculum in RCC courses is derived from a set of identified learning outcomes that are relevant to the discipline. Program learning outcomes for the Phlebotomy Career Pathway Certificate are:

Conduct venipuncture and capillary puncture, select appropriate collection tubes, and follow proper procedures for labeling and transporting specimens.

Demonstrate industry standards of infection control and safety principles.

Explain legal and ethical standards for confidentiality and patient privacy.

Entry Requirements

Students are required to complete the Placement Process to determine skill level and readiness in math and writing. As part of their training program, students must begin with the courses within their skill level as determined through the Placement Process.

Students attend core phlebotomy classes as part of a structured cohort. Students who plan on entering the Phlebotomy program should meet with their faculty advisor and financial aid advisor to develop a plan prior to taking program courses. Cohort students must meet certain minimum academic requirements.

Students will complete specific health and immunization requirements and a criminal background check prior to starting the program. Students will also complete a drug screen prior to placement into a practicum. This screening process has an associated fee. Contact the Allied Health Department for more information.

Advanced Standing

Coursework from accredited colleges and universities will be accepted in accordance with college policies and the program coordinator’s recommendation. In order to ensure coursework is current, program courses over seven years old must be reviewed and approved by the appropriate coordinator before being accepted toward core requirements. 

Completion Requirements

Students must complete courses with at least a “C-” or better grade and they must have at least a 2.0 program GPA. Certain courses are graded on a pass/no pass basis. A grade of “P” for these courses indicates a student earned the equivalent of a “C-” or better grade. This guide lays out an optimal path to graduate. Where zero credits are listed in the prerequisites, students may place into a higher level(s) based on designated placement. Note: some prerequisites may be required for graduation. Please consult an advisor with any program completion questions.