If you are looking for a career in healthcare that involves working with patients and blood, you might want to consider becoming a phlebotomist. Phlebotomists are trained professionals who draw blood for various medical reasons, such as testing, transfusion, donation, or research. Phlebotomists are in high demand in many healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, labs, blood banks, and plasma centers.
But how do you become a phlebotomist? What kind of training do you need? And where can you find a good phlebotomy program near you? We have taken the time to review some of the best phlebotomy classes in Tucson, including in-person and online phlebotomy training options. We also know that cost is an issue for many people so we’ve provided some additional info to help you find scholarships, grants, and other means for reducing costs or even finding free phlebotomy training in Tucson.
Brookline College
One of the options you have is the Phlebotomy Technician program offered by Brookline College in Tucson, Arizona. This program claims to teach you the skills you need to safely obtain blood specimens from patients and prepare them for analysis. It also claims to prepare you for the National American Medical Technologist (NAMT) exam to become a Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT).
But is this program worth your time and money? How does it compare to other phlebotomy programs in the area? And what can you expect from it?
In this review, we will try to answer these questions and more. We will look at the following aspects of the Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program:
- Program duration
- Program curriculum
- Program cost
- Program enrollment
- Program outcomes
- Campus location
- Campus facilities
- Campus services
We will also provide some frequently asked questions about the program and some tips on how to make the most of your phlebotomy education.
Duration
The Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program can be completed in as little as 34 weeks. This is relatively fast compared to other phlebotomy programs in the area, which can take up to a year or more. This means that you can start your career as a phlebotomist sooner and save time and money on your education.
However, this also means that the program is very intensive and requires a lot of commitment and dedication from you. You will have to attend classes five days a week, Monday through Friday, for about four hours each day. You will also have to complete an externship of 120 hours at a local healthcare facility, where you will practice your skills under supervision.
If you have other obligations or responsibilities, such as work or family, this schedule might be challenging for you. You will have to balance your time and energy between your studies and your personal life. You will also have to be prepared for the academic rigor and pressure of the program.
Curriculum
The Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program consists of 24 credits divided into eight courses. The courses cover various topics related to phlebotomy, such as:
- Anatomy and physiology of blood vessels
- Venipuncture techniques and procedures
- Safety and infection control standards
- Medical office administration and communication skills
The courses are taught by experienced instructors who have worked in the field of phlebotomy. They use a combination of lectures, demonstrations, simulations, and hands-on exercises to teach you the theory and practice of phlebotomy. You will also have access to modern classrooms and lab facilities that mimic real-world healthcare environments.
The program also includes an externship of 120 hours at a local healthcare facility, where you will practice your skills under supervision. This will give you an opportunity to apply what you have learned in the classroom to real patients and situations. You will also gain valuable experience and exposure to different healthcare settings.
The program curriculum is designed to prepare you for the National American Medical Technologist (NAMT) exam to become a Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT). This is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates your competence and professionalism as a phlebotomist. It can also increase your chances of finding employment and earning higher wages.
However, the program curriculum does not guarantee that you will pass the exam or get a job as a phlebotomist. You will still have to study hard and practice your skills on your own time. You will also have to pay an additional fee of $120 to take the exam. And you will have to compete with other graduates from other phlebotomy programs in the area for limited job openings.
Cost
The tuition cost for the Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program is $11,700. This includes tuition fees, books, supplies, uniforms, and lab fees. This does not include the cost of the NAMT exam, which is $120. This also does not include the cost of living expenses, such as transportation, food, and housing.
The tuition cost for the program is relatively high compared to other phlebotomy programs in the area, which can range from $2,000 to $6,000. This means that you will have to invest a significant amount of money into your education. You will also have to consider the opportunity cost of not working or earning income while you are in school.
There are financial aid options available to qualifying students. These include scholarships, grants, loans, and military benefits. Depending on how much you receive these can lower the cost of enrollment to the point where classes are free. You can also apply for payment plans or work-study programs to reduce your financial burden. You will have to meet with a financial aid representative to explore and understand all the options that are available to you.
Enrollment
The enrollment process for the Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program involves the following steps:
- Meet with an admissions representative (virtual or in-person)
- Complete an application form
- Provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent
- Take an entrance exam
- Attend an orientation session
The enrollment process is relatively simple and straightforward compared to other phlebotomy programs in the area, which can have more stringent requirements or longer waiting lists. This means that you can start your education as soon as possible and without much hassle.
However, this also means that the program is not very selective or competitive. You will not have to meet any specific academic or personal criteria to be admitted. You will also not have to submit any letters of recommendation or personal statements. This might affect the quality and diversity of your classmates and instructors.
Outcomes
The program outcomes for the Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program are:
- Graduation rate: 75%
- Placement rate: 70%
- Certification rate: 80%
These are the percentages of students who graduated from the program, found employment in the field of phlebotomy, and passed the NAMT exam within a year of completing the program. These are based on data from 2019.
The program outcomes are relatively good compared to other phlebotomy programs in the area, which can have lower rates of graduation, placement, and certification. This means that you have a high chance of completing the program, finding a job as a phlebotomist, and becoming certified.
However, these outcomes are not guaranteed or consistent. They can vary depending on the year, the location, the market conditions, and your individual performance and circumstances. You will still have to work hard and be proactive in pursuing your career goals.
Campus location
The campus location for the Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program is in the Williams Centre at 300 S. Craycroft Rd, Suite 100, Tucson, AZ 85711. It is conveniently located near major highways and downtown districts of Tucson. It is also close to many restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
The campus location is ideal for commuting students who live in or near Tucson. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation. It is also within a reasonable distance from many healthcare facilities where you can do your externship or find employment.
However, the campus location is not very attractive or scenic. It is situated in a busy commercial area with a lot of traffic and noise. It does not have much green space or natural beauty. It might not be very appealing or relaxing for students who prefer a more quiet or rural setting.
Campus facilities
The campus facilities for the Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program include modern classrooms and lab facilities that simulate real-world healthcare environments. They also include a library and computer lab where you can access books, journals, databases, and software related to phlebotomy. They also offer free parking to students.
The campus facilities are adequate and functional for your learning needs. They provide you with the equipment and resources you need to practice your skills and study your materials. They also offer a comfortable and safe environment for your education.
However, the campus facilities are not very spacious or luxurious. They are limited in size and capacity. They might not have enough room or availability for all students at all times. They might also lack some amenities or features that other campuses might have, such as a gym, a cafeteria, or a student lounge.
Campus services
The campus services for the Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program include career services, resume writing workshops, interview coaching, and employer networking events. These are designed to help you prepare for your job search and connect you with potential employers in the field of phlebotomy.
The campus services are helpful and supportive for your career development. They provide you with guidance and assistance in finding and applying for jobs as a phlebotomist. They also expose you to different opportunities and contacts in the healthcare industry.
Summary
The Brookline College Phlebotomy Technician program is one of the options you have if you want to become a phlebotomist in Tucson, Arizona. It offers a fast and focused curriculum that teaches you the skills you need to draw blood safely and effectively. It also prepares you for the NAMT exam to become a certified phlebotomist.
However, the program also has some drawbacks and limitations that you should be aware of. It is expensive, intensive, and not very selective. It does not guarantee that you will pass the exam or get a job as a phlebotomist. It also does not offer a very attractive or spacious campus or a lot of services or support for students.
Therefore, before you enroll in the program, you should do your own research and compare it with other phlebotomy programs in the area. You should also consider your personal goals, preferences, and circumstances. You should weigh the pros and cons of the program and decide if it is the best fit for you.
If you decide to enroll in the program, you should be prepared to work hard and be committed to your education. You should also be proactive and resourceful in pursuing your career opportunities. You should make the most of your time and money and use them wisely.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $11,700 (excluding NAMT exam fee and living expenses) |
| Program Duration | 34 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Monday through Friday, 4 hours per day |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or equivalent, entrance exam |
| Certification Eligibility | NAMT exam to become a Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT) |
| Location | Williams Centre, 300 S. Craycroft Rd, Suite 100, Tucson, AZ 85711 |
| Phone | (520) 748-9799 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.brooklinecollege.edu/ |
| Job Placement | Career services, resume writing workshops, interview coaching, employer networking events |
Pima Community College
If you are interested in becoming a phlebotomist, you might want to consider the Phlebotomy Certificate Program offered by Pima Community College (PCC) in Tucson, Arizona. This program will teach you how to draw blood samples from patients for laboratory testing and other related skills.
Features
Pima’s Phlebotomy Certificate Program consists of four courses that cover the theory and practice of phlebotomy, as well as communication, student success, and workplace skills. The courses are:
- PHB150IN Phlebotomy (5 credits)
- STU100 Student Success (1 credit)
- COM100 Fundamentals of Human Communication (3 credits)
- MLT199 Workplace Skills for Medical Laboratory Technicians (1 credit)
The total number of credits required for the Phlebotomy Certificate Program is 10. The program follows the college’s regular 16-week semester in both the fall and spring. You must complete the phlebotomy course with a grade of B or better before you can be assigned to a clinical rotation, which is a mandatory part of the program.
The clinical rotation is an 80-hour hands-on experience at an approved site where you will perform phlebotomy procedures under supervision. The clinical rotation must be completed within 6 months of finishing the phlebotomy course. The duration of the rotation can vary from 2 to 12 weeks, depending on the site. Some sites offer a paid internship option.
Pima’s Phlebotomy Certificate Program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) and prepares you to take the national certification exam offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Benefits
The Pima Phlebotomy Certificate Program has several benefits that make it attractive for aspiring phlebotomists. Some of them are:
- Short and affordable: You can complete it in less than a year with a total cost of approximately $1,500 for tuition and fees, plus some additional expenses for books, supplies, uniforms, insurance, and background check. Financial aid and scholarships are available for eligible students.
- Flexible and convenient: You can choose from different class schedules and formats, such as daytime, evening, weekend, hybrid, or online. However, some courses may require in-person attendance and participation. You can also choose from different clinical rotation sites that suit your preferences and availability.
- Comprehensive and practical: You will learn not only how to perform phlebotomy techniques safely and accurately, but also how to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues, how to succeed as a student and a professional, and how to develop your workplace skills. You will also gain valuable experience in a real-world setting where you will apply your knowledge and skills.
- Reputable and recognized: You will receive a certificate from PCC that attests your competence in phlebotomy. You will also be eligible to take the ASCP certification exam, which is widely accepted by employers as a credential for phlebotomists. The program is accredited by NAACLS, which ensures that it meets the standards of quality and excellence in clinical laboratory education.
Drawbacks
You must adhere to strict admission requirements before you can start the courses or the clinical rotation. These include registering as a student at PCC, submitting an application to the phlebotomy program, obtaining a DPS clearance card, completing a health document with vaccinations and physical requirements, passing a drug screen test, and meeting other prerequisites as specified by the program coordinator.
There is also limited enrollment capacity that may affect your chances of getting accepted or assigned to your preferred clinical rotation site. The number of students admitted to the program each semester depends on the availability of faculty, facilities, and clinical sites. The selection process is competitive and based on several criteria such as GPA, completion of prerequisites, application date, etc.
There is no guaranteed job placement assistance after graduation. Although Pima provides career services and resources to help you find employment opportunities, it does not offer any formal or contractual assistance or guarantee that you will get hired as a phlebotomist.
Recommendations
- Do your research and compare the program with other phlebotomy programs in your area. Check the accreditation status, curriculum, cost, duration, admission requirements, class schedules, clinical rotation options, certification exam preparation, and other factors that are important to you.
- Apply early and prepare well for the admission process. The program has a limited number of seats and a competitive selection process. Therefore, you should apply as soon as possible and make sure you meet all the requirements and prerequisites. You should also prepare a strong application that showcases your academic achievements, personal qualities, and career goals.
- Study hard and practice a lot for the courses and the clinical rotation. The program is intensive and challenging, and requires a lot of dedication and effort from you. You should study the course materials thoroughly and participate actively in the classes and labs. You should also practice your phlebotomy skills as much as possible, using models, simulators, or volunteers.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Approximately $1,500 for tuition and fees, plus additional expenses for books, supplies, uniforms, insurance, and background check |
| Program Duration | Less than a year (10 credits of coursework and 80 hours of clinical rotation) |
| Class Schedules | Varies depending on the course and the semester (daytime, evening, weekend, hybrid, or online) |
| Prerequisites | Registering as a student at PCC, submitting an application to the phlebotomy program, obtaining a DPS clearance card, completing a health document with vaccinations and physical requirements, passing a drug screen test, and meeting other prerequisites as specified by the program coordinator |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible to take the ASCP certification exam after completing the program |
| Location | West Campus of PCC in Tucson, Arizona |
| Phone | (520) 206-6826 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.pima.edu/programs-courses/credit-programs-degrees/health-professions/phlebotomy/index.html |
| Job Placement | No formal or contractual assistance or guarantee, but provides career services and resources to help students find employment opportunities |
Phlebotomy Training Specialists
If you want to become a certified phlebotomist in Tucson, you can enroll in one of the courses offered by Phlebotomy Training Specialists. They have different class schedules and payment options to suit your needs and preferences.
The course covers 48 hours of in-class training, where you will learn the theory and practice of phlebotomy, and prepare for the national exam. You can take the exam on the last day of the class, and if you pass, you will be able to work as a phlebotomist anywhere in the country, except for some states that have additional requirements.
You can also benefit from the “Student for Life” policy, which allows you to come back to the classroom anytime to refresh your skills, review the material, and do more blood draws.
To enroll in the course, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pay a $200 deposit that is non-refundable after 72 hours. The total cost of the course is $1125, which includes the tuition fee of $1010 and the national exam fee of $115. You can pay the full amount halfway through the class, or choose a flexible payment plan that lets you pay online or over the phone at your convenience. You can also apply for financing through Monterey Financial if you have a credit score of at least 550 or a cosigner.
The course times are designed to fit your schedule. You can choose from daytime, evening, or weekend classes. The daytime classes run from Monday to Thursday, 9am to 1pm, for three weeks. The evening classes run from Monday to Thursday, 6pm to 10pm, for three weeks. The weekend classes run on Saturdays, 8am to 4:30pm, for six weeks. You can also enroll in an ECG class that runs from Tuesday to Thursday, 1:30pm to 5:30pm, for two weeks, and become dual certified.
To register for a course or learn more about Phlebotomy Training Specialists, visit their website or call their student services at 701-404-9434.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1125 (including tuition and exam fee) |
| Program Duration | 48 hours of in-class training |
| Class Schedules | Daytime, evening, or weekend classes |
| Prerequisites | 18 years or older, high school diploma or equivalent |
| Certification Eligibility | National exam on the last day of class |
| Location | 3131 N. Country Club Rd. Suite 112 Tucson, AZ 85716 |
| Phone | 701-404-9434 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.phlebotomyusa.com/arizona/tucson-phlebotomy-school-classes/ |
| Job Placement | Not specified |
Northwest Phlebotomy School
If you are looking for a fast and affordable way to start your career as a phlebotomist, you might want to consider Northwest Phlebotomy School in Tucson, Arizona. This school offers a short but intensive course that covers the basics of blood collection and intravenous therapy. However, before you enroll, you should be aware of some of the pros and cons of this program.
One of the advantages of Northwest Phlebotomy School is that it has a flexible and convenient schedule. You can choose between a two-day or a three-day course, depending on your availability and learning pace. The classes are held at a hotel near the university campus, which is easy to access by public transportation or car. The classes are also small and personalized, with a maximum of 10 students per instructor. You will get plenty of hands-on practice and one-on-one feedback from your instructor, who is an experienced and certified phlebotomist.
Another benefit of Northwest Phlebotomy School is that it is relatively cheap compared to other phlebotomy programs in the area. The course fee is only $675, which includes a textbook, supplies, and certification fee. You will also receive a certificate of completion after passing a practical exam at the end of the course. Additionally, you can take an optional IV catheter placement workshop for an extra $250, which will enhance your skills and credentials as a phlebotomist.
However, Northwest Phlebotomy School also has some drawbacks that you should consider before enrolling. One of them is that it does not provide any job placement assistance or career guidance for its graduates. You will have to find your own employment opportunities after completing the course, which can be challenging in a competitive market. You will also have to take the national phlebotomy certification exam offered by the ASCP on your own, which is not included in the course fee. The exam requires additional study and preparation, which you will have to do on your own time and expense.
Another limitation of Northwest Phlebotomy School is that it does not have a comprehensive curriculum or accreditation. The course only covers the basic aspects of phlebotomy, such as anatomy and physiology, equipment, techniques, safety, and patient demographics. It does not cover more advanced topics such as quality control, infection control, specimen handling, laboratory procedures, or legal and ethical issues. The course also does not have any prerequisites or admission requirements, which means that anyone can enroll regardless of their educational background or medical experience. This might affect the quality and rigor of the instruction and the learning outcomes.
Northwest Phlebotomy School is a good option for those who want to learn phlebotomy quickly and cheaply, but it is not suitable for those who want a more comprehensive and accredited education or career support. You should weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding whether this program is right for you. You should also compare it with other phlebotomy programs in your area to find the best fit for your needs and goals.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $675 for phlebotomy course, $250 for IV certification course |
| Program Duration | Two or three days for phlebotomy course, four hours for IV catheter placement workshop |
| Class Schedules | Varies depending on availability of instructors and students |
| Prerequisites | None for phlebotomy course, previous medical education or completion of phlebotomy course for IV catheter placement workshop |
| Certification Eligibility | Certificate of completion for phlebotomy course and IV catheter placement workshop, eligible to take national phlebotomy certification exam by ASCP |
| Location | Aloft Tucson University (classroom), 5151 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85711 (office) |
| Phone | (520) 207-0549 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.nwphlebotomyschool.com/location/tucson/ |
| Job Placement | None |
How to Find Free Phlebotomy Training in Tucson
There are several options for individuals who want to enter the field of phlebotomy but are concerned about the cost of education. Here’s a breakdown of strategies to reduce tuition expenses and explore affordable or free phlebotomy class options near Tucson:
1. Research Community Colleges and Vocational Schools: Look into local community colleges and vocational schools that offer phlebotomy programs. These institutions often provide more affordable training compared to larger universities. They might also have financial aid options, grants, or scholarships available to eligible students.
2. Financial Aid and Grants: Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid programs like grants and loans. Some state and local government agencies also offer grants or tuition assistance for career training programs, including phlebotomy.
3. Scholarships: Search for scholarships specifically designed for healthcare or phlebotomy students. Many organizations, foundations, and even private companies offer scholarships to support individuals pursuing careers in healthcare. Look for opportunities through online scholarship search engines, local healthcare associations, and community organizations.
4. Workforce Development Programs: Some regions offer workforce development programs aimed at helping individuals gain skills for in-demand careers like phlebotomy. These programs may provide free or low-cost training to eligible participants. Check with local job centers, community organizations, or government agencies to find such opportunities.
5. On-the-Job Training: Some healthcare facilities offer on-the-job training for entry-level positions like phlebotomists. These programs allow you to gain practical experience while learning, and some employers may cover the cost of training as part of their employee development initiatives.
6. Nonprofit Organizations and Foundations: Certain nonprofit organizations and foundations focus on providing education and training to individuals seeking to enter the healthcare field. Research and inquire about any such organizations in your area that might offer financial assistance or scholarships.
7. Military and Veterans Benefits: If you’re a veteran or currently serving in the military, you might be eligible for educational benefits that could cover the cost of phlebotomy training. Explore programs like the GI Bill and other military education benefits.
8. Online Resources and Free Courses: While free comprehensive phlebotomy training is less common, you can find online resources, tutorials, and courses that provide introductory knowledge. These resources can help you familiarize yourself with the basics before pursuing formal training.
9. Employer Sponsorship: If you’re currently employed in a healthcare setting, inquire whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement or sponsorship for pursuing additional training or certification, including phlebotomy.
10. Flexible Payment Plans: When choosing a phlebotomy program, ask if the school or institution offers flexible payment plans that allow you to spread out the cost of tuition over time.
Remember, a combination of these strategies might be the most effective way to reduce the cost of your phlebotomy training. It’s essential to research thoroughly, inquire about financial aid options, and explore every available avenue to make your career transition financially manageable.
Phlebotomist Salaries in Tucson
Analyzing phlebotomy salaries in Tucson, Arizona in comparison to both the national and state averages provides valuable insights into compensation trends. Nationally, phlebotomists earn an average hourly wage of $19.51, translating to an annual salary of approximately $40,580. Looking at the broader picture in Arizona, where 3,540 phlebotomists contribute to the healthcare field, the average hourly wage stands at $19.47, leading to an annual salary of about $40,500.
Focusing on Tucson, with 210 skilled phlebotomists in the workforce, the average hourly wage comes in at $18.41, resulting in an annual salary of around $38,290. Tucson’s salaries align closely with the state average and remain slightly below the national average. This data indicates that while Tucson’s phlebotomy salaries are competitive within the state, they fall slightly short of the national benchmark.
| # of Phlebotomists | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $ 19.51 | $ 40,580 |
| Arizona | 3,540 | $ 19.47 | $ 40,500 |
| Tucson | 210 | $ 18.41 | $ 38,290 |
Factors That Influence Phlebotomy Pay in Tucson
Several factors contribute to the variance in phlebotomy pay in Tucson:
- Experience and Skill Level: Phlebotomists with more years of experience and specialized skills often command higher salaries. Those with advanced certifications and a proven track record in accurate blood collection and patient care may earn more.
- Education and Certification: Holding relevant certifications, such as Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT), can impact pay. Certified professionals are generally in higher demand and may receive better compensation.
- Demand and Supply: The balance of supply and demand for phlebotomists in Tucson can influence pay. If there’s a shortage of skilled phlebotomists, employers might offer more competitive salaries to attract and retain talent.
- Employer Type and Size: Different healthcare settings, like hospitals, clinics, or laboratories, may offer varying salary ranges. Larger institutions or those with specialized services may offer higher pay to ensure quality blood collection.
- Location: The specific area within Tucson can affect pay. Urban or central locations might offer higher compensation due to higher living costs and demand for healthcare services.
- Economic Factors: Tucson’s economic condition and the healthcare industry’s prominence in the region can influence salaries. A robust healthcare sector might lead to increased competition for skilled phlebotomists, driving pay rates higher.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Tucson compared to other areas can impact salaries. Employers often adjust compensation to ensure employees can maintain a reasonable standard of living.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: The potential for career growth within a healthcare facility can influence pay. Employers might offer higher salaries to those who show potential for advancement.
- Shifts and Hours: Phlebotomists working during less-desirable shifts or extended hours might receive additional pay incentives, affecting overall compensation.
- Additional Skills: Proficiency in other relevant skills like electronic health records (EHR) management or patient interaction might lead to higher pay rates.
Overall, a combination of these factors contributes to the diversity in phlebotomy pay across Tucson, making it crucial for professionals to consider various elements when negotiating or seeking employment opportunities.