Frequently Asked Questions

To assist you in your interest whether to pursue a career in Phlebotomy, we have assembled frequently asked questions about Phlebotomy in general–and Clark's Phlebotomy training program in particular. We hope that this information will be helpful to you.

What types of activities do phlebotomists perform?

Phlebotomists are an integral part of the healthcare team and perform a wide variety of duties in the laboratory. They learn the fundamental techniques for collecting blood, using a variety of collection equipment, such as syringes, capillary puncture devices, and butterfly needles. Our program provides comprehensive training in performing a variety of blood collection methods using proper techniques while adhering to all safety precautions. Emphasis will be placed on infection prevention, proper patient identification, proper labeling, specimen handling and quality assurance.

Where do phlebotomists usually find jobs?

Our certificate courses (Certificate of Achievement & Certificate of Proficiency) prepare students for employment as phlebotomists in a variety of health care settings such as medical clinics, hospitals, laboratories, doctor offices, blood donation centers, and insurance companies.

What are the career growth prospects for phlebotomist?

According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Statistics, the need for Phlebotomists will increase 15% by year 2020. Our program is designed to support the local opportunities for Phlebotomists so that our students can enter into the workforce as soon as possible. The median estimated salary for a full-time, phlebotomist is $27,040-$41,933 per year (13.00 to 20.16 per hour)*. Local entry-level hourly wage ranges between $11.00 to $15.38 per hour depending whether you choose to work at a hospital, private clinic, a laboratory at a physician's office or an insurance agency.
*www.bls.gov

What certifications does Clark's program offer, and how long does it take to complete?

Where is the Phlebotomy course location?

The Phlebotomy training program is taught at Clark College at Washington State University Vancouver. Depending on your admission, it may be necessary for you to take courses taught at other Clark College campuses.

How do I become admitted to the program?

You need to provide an official copy of your high school diploma or equivalent. You must also maintain a 2.5 cumulative Clark College grade point average (GPA), and complete the preliminary requirements. To waive reading and writing preliminary program requirements, you will need to achieve a COMPASS score of 74 for reading and a COMPASS score of 78 for writing.

What does Clark College's Phlebotomy program cost?

An estimated cost for the successful completion of a phlebotomy program to earn a Certificate of Achievement at Clark College is $6,305.46, (based on full-time, in-state Washington residency, tuition and associated program fees for the year 2013-14). Actual costs may vary based on a student's program requirement status to enter the program and the length of time taken for a student to successfully complete the training program to earn either a Certificate of Achievement or a Certificate of Proficiency.

Does Clark's Phlebotomy program qualify for financial aid?

No, the program is not eligible for traditional financial aid. However, there may be financial assistance programs available to those who qualify. You can call Clark's Eligibility Programs office at 360-992-2321, or go online at clark.edu/admissions_fin_aid/advising/ for more information.

What can I expect in a Clark College phlebotomy class?

A typical phlebotomy class is comprised of 30 students admitted twice a year (fall and spring) and taught in a cohort. The Phlebotomy program is on a first-come, first-serve selective admission basis. Students are ranked by application date (fee paid date) and by when the preliminary requirements are completed. Students are encouraged to apply before completing all the preliminary requirements.

Why does the Phlebotomy program limit its enrollment?

Although we would like to accept all students who are interested in our phlebotomy training program, we limit student enrollment in each cohort to maintain a student-to-instructor ratio that allows each student adequate time to successfully learn and practice their phlebotomy skills; while maintaining a safe environment.

Are evening courses offered?

Classes, as well as the clinical internship, are taught during the day and the evening.

Are there dress practices/requirements for Phlebotomy students?

Students wear scrubs (uniform) and lab coats when working on lab skills during the classroom portion of the course, and when they are at the clinical internship site. Appropriate footwear will be required in the lab and clinical area. Closed-toe shoes that are soft-soled, such as white tennis or similar shoes must be worn in the lab and clinical area; no mesh tennis shoes, sandals, flip-flops, or clogs are allowed.

What practices are important for my success in the Phlebotomy program?

Phlebotomy is a multi-faceted, detailed training program and requires adequate study time. You should carefully consider and manage other commitments such as additional courses that you may need to complete, child care and work schedules. You need to be prepared for each class meeting by completing reading and assignments as assigned. A typical rule-of-thumb is to allow a minimum of two hours of study for each hour of class. Finally, it is helpful to build relationships and network with your class colleagues and form productive study groups.

Can I work as a phlebotomist after completing Clark's Phlebotomy program?

Completion of a state-approved phlebotomy training program is the first step in the process. Students successfully completing Clark's program receive a Certificate of Achievement or a Certificate of Proficiency. After successful completion of the program, students are advised to successfully complete a state-approved national examination approved for Clark College Phlebotomy students. The final step is to complete the Clark College Application for Admission and the Phlebotomy Application. Return them to Clark College Enrollment Serviceswith the non-refundable program application fee of $50 (subject to change). Students who are new to Clark College must also pay a one-time non-refundable $25.00 application fee. Date of Phlebotomy Application (fee paid date) will be considered in selecting students for entry into the program.

What is the student success rate for the national examination at Clark?

The student success rate average is 100%.

Can Clark College assist me in finding a Phlebotomy job?

Clark College offers career planning and resources available to all Clark College students. Clark's Phlebotomy instruction staff also has employer and community ties that can be of job placement assistance. Clark College has a job board that connects job seekers with local employers at: www.clark.edu/nextjob

What resources are available to me?

Is Clark's Phlebotomy program approved for veterans?

Yes, for resources contact the Veterans Affairs Office at Clark:
Veterans Affairs Office
Phone: 360-992-2711 or 360-992-2711
Email: veterans@clark.edu
Location: Gaiser Hall

What should I do if I have more questions about Clark's Phlebotomy program?