person drawing blood from arm.

Phlebotomy

The MLT 100 Phlebotomy & Clinical Laboratory course provides the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) competencies to competently perform venipuncture and capillary puncture for blood collection purposes and clinical laboratory procedures typically performed by health care professionals. The student will learn about Clinical Laboratory processes; collecting, handling, and transporting specimens; CLIA waived laboratory testing; quality control; and laboratory safety. The student will learn how to safely perform phlebotomy venipunctures and capillary punctures. Topics emphasized include infection control, legal and ethical responsibilities, professionalism, and interpersonal communication skills. This course is composed of 32 theory hours and 32 laboratory hours.

Requirements:

  • No background check, CPR, or drug screen.
  • Will need a physical exam.
  • 2 step -TB test series.
  • Hepatitis B waiver or proof of shot series.

Most clinical sites require vaccination against COVID-19. Students should check with their program coordinator for more details.

Illinois does not require certification or licensure at this time to work as a phlebotomist. Students can sit for the PBT (phlebotomy) registry exam AFTER working full-time for one year and documenting that work record. 

Please note that advanced career opportunities include a Medical Lab Technician which requires an associate of applied science degree and a Medical Technologist which requires a bachelor's degree. 


Pathways to other programs

Medical Assistant

EMS - Paramedic

Practical Nursing - LPN

Associate Degree Nursing - RN

 

Admission Requirements

Course prerequisites:

  • College placement exam equivalent eligibility for entrance to ENG 097 with a C or higher.

Career and technical programs/courses are offered without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or status in any group protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Title IX Coordinator: 309.341.5258. ADA/504 Coordinator: 309.341.5262.

For additional information contact:
Welcome Center
309.345.3500
welcomecenter@sandburg.edu

Employment

Graduates are able to work at hospitals, clinics, Red Cross, Mississippi Valley Regional blood center, or Fresinius dialysis centers.

Employment of Phlebotomists is projected to grow 22.2% from 2020-2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. An annual salary for entry-level workers starts around $26,925. Mid-level pay is $36,320 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $63,000. (State of Illinois averages)


Working Conditions

Phlebotomists work mainly in hospitals, medical and diagnostic laboratories, blood donor centers, and outpatient offices. Phlebotomists work closely with nurses, nursing assistants, and other health care professionals. Most work will consist of 8-hour and/or 12-hour shifts, which could include evenings, weekends, and holidays. If you are considering this field, you must be able to accurately record and report information, maintain confidentiality, and present a calm and professional demeanor to patients, families, and co-workers. 

GRADUATES FROM THIS COURSE PURSUE CAREERS IN FIELDS SUCH AS:

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Learn More

Sample Schedule

Please contact the Welcome Center for a sample schedule.

ESTIMATED COST

Phlebotomy course cost sheet


FINANCIAL AID

To apply for financial aid, visit our   financial aid page  for more information. 

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy. Contact the local office to inquire if you qualify for financial support. 

  • Hancock County 550 N. Madison St. ,   Carthage, IL 217.357.6749      
  • Warren/Henderson County 1025 S. 2 nd St, Monmouth, IL 309.734.4745
  • Knox County Bondi Building, 311 E. Main, Suite 612, Galesburg, IL 309.343.9832               
  • McDonough County 440 N. Lafayette, Macomb, IL 309.837.1280


SCHOLARSHIPS

Thanks to our generous donors,   Carl Sandburg College Foundation  is able to award over $100,000 each year in scholarship dollars to Sandburg students. High school, adult learners, and returning students - everyone is eligible to apply. Apply between October 1 and March 15 for the upcoming year.   We encourage all students to apply. 

Meet the Instructors

Diane Girdler
Phlebotomy Instructor