Phlebotomy
- Certificate
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
In this three-credit course, you'll learn to effectively and efficiently obtain quality blood samples for laboratory testing.
Program-specific courses are held in the Health Science Center, a shared facility located a few blocks from the La Crosse main campus. Check our maps page [1] for specific location information.
Career Opportunities
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
Application Fee:
Transcript:
Program Specific Requirements
To enroll in the Phlebotomy program, first apply for admission to the College, then read the program's Technical Standards and complete a background check.
You can find links to these documents below.
- Phlebotomy Technical Standards [2]
- Background Check [3]
- If COVID vaccines are required by a clinical partner, you will be notified.
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [6].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [7].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [8] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [9]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [10].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [11] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [12]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Additional Information
Course Sequence and Delivery
The Phlebotomy Skills and Experience course is 3 credits and runs the entire length of the term. For the first half of the term, you will attend lecture and practice your skills in lab for two hours a day, two days a week. After you complete the lecture and lab portion of the course on campus, you will begin clinical rotations to obtain real-world experience. The clinical rotation consists of 64 hours and is completed during the second half of the course. You will be scheduled for at least two 4-hour blocks of time at your clinical site each week for a total of 8 hours per week.
The availability of clinical slots for Phlebotomy students is wholly dependent on the operational demands of our clinical partners. Clinical time may be held at any time between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on any weekday, Monday through Friday. Although our Clinical Coordinator will do her best to accommodate students’ work and class schedules, we are unable to determine in advance where and when students will be assigned to clinical. This information will be shared with students during the fourth week of class.
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [13] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [14] self-service portal for academic planning.