Dotson Healthcare Institute in Houston offers two distinct phlebotomy training options: a 6-week traditional course for $1,000 and a 1-weekend accelerated course for $500. The traditional track is designed for beginners and includes 136 total hours of instruction and clinical practice. The accelerated option is for healthcare professionals who want to boost their phlebotomy skills quickly. Both options include access to online learning, hands-on clinical training, and national certification upon passing the exam. Evening and weekend classes are available depending on the course type, making this program flexible for working adults.
A School That Offers Choices
Dotson Healthcare Institute (DHI) is unique in that it gives students two pathways to becoming a certified phlebotomy technician. Whether you’re starting from scratch or just brushing up on your skills, DHI has a course that fits.
The traditional course is 6 weeks long and includes in-depth training across 136 hours—96 hours of classroom and lab instruction and 40 hours of clinical skills practice. It’s designed specifically for people with no healthcare background who want to enter the field for the first time.
If you’re already in the medical field, the accelerated course is a quick, 20-hour option split into 10 hours of classroom learning and 10 hours of hands-on training. It’s ideal for CNAs, medical assistants, or nurses who need a fast way to sharpen their blood draw techniques or meet new job requirements.
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What You’ll Learn
Both programs focus on the core competencies of phlebotomy. You’ll gain hands-on experience in:
- Venipuncture (drawing blood from veins)
- Microcollections
- Handling and labeling specimens
- Collecting bodily fluids
- Safety procedures and infection control
- Patient interaction and professionalism
The traditional course takes it further by including lab-based learning and in-person clinical skills training that helps you feel comfortable drawing blood and communicating with patients. The curriculum prepares students for jobs in hospitals, labs, doctor’s offices, and more.
Schedule and Class Formats
Dotson Healthcare Institute is committed to flexibility, offering daytime and evening classes for the traditional program and weekend-only sessions for the accelerated course.
Traditional students can choose:
- Day classes: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening classes: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The accelerated course meets over one weekend, running from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM both days. This makes it possible to earn your certificate with minimal disruption to your work week.
Both programs include online learning elements, though clinical skills must be completed in person. This hybrid approach is especially helpful for people with busy or unpredictable schedules.
Course Costs and What’s Included
Dotson’s pricing is competitive given the depth of training offered.
- Traditional Program: $1,000 total
- $200.25 due at registration
- Payment plans available
- Accelerated Program: $500 total
- $100 due at registration
- Balance due on the first day of class
Each program includes study materials, clinical and lab instruction, a name badge, a study guide, and the first attempt at the national certification exam. Students who pass receive national certification, allowing them to work in a variety of healthcare environments.
You must register in person, and while financing options are mentioned, you’ll need to visit or call for full details.
School Culture and Philosophy
Dotson Healthcare Institute isn’t just about certifications—it places real emphasis on professional development and the values needed in healthcare. The school is built around three pillars: competence, compassion, and commitment.
This isn’t a place where you just memorize facts and take a test. The instructors encourage students to develop the confidence and character needed to provide exceptional care. It’s an approach that benefits patients and employers alike.
The school’s mission is to provide high-quality training and foster lasting career success. Its vision is to train the healthcare leaders of tomorrow, one class at a time.
Facilities and Support
Classes are held at 14300 Cornerstone Village Dr., Suite 226, Houston, TX 77014. You’ll be taught by licensed professionals in a supportive, structured environment. Clinical and classroom spaces are designed to simulate real healthcare settings, giving students a feel for what they’ll experience on the job.
If you want to explore the campus before enrolling, you’re encouraged to schedule a tour by calling the school. Staff members are responsive and eager to answer questions about the course format, pricing, and career outcomes.
Admissions Requirements
The program doesn’t list detailed admission criteria on the website, but based on industry standards, you can expect to need:
- A high school diploma or GED
- A government-issued photo ID
- Completed registration form with payment
- Willingness to participate in hands-on clinical training
Be sure to call or visit in person for the latest enrollment details.
Certification and Career Opportunities
Graduates of either program are eligible to sit for a national phlebotomy certification exam, included in the course cost. Upon passing, you’ll receive a credential that’s widely recognized by employers across the country.
This certification opens doors to careers in:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Diagnostic laboratories
- Blood donation centers
- Physician offices
The job market for phlebotomy technicians continues to grow, and this training provides a solid stepping stone into healthcare—either as a long-term role or a launchpad into nursing, lab work, or medical assisting.
Is This School Right For You?
Dotson Healthcare Institute could be the right fit if you’re looking for affordable, practical training with flexible class schedules. The school’s two-track system means you can either learn at your own pace over six weeks or complete the accelerated version in just one weekend. It’s especially appealing for people who already work in healthcare and want a fast way to level up their skills.
Dotson also sets itself apart by focusing not just on skills, but on the professional values that make a great healthcare worker—something that’s often overlooked. If you want a program that teaches both the how and the why of patient care, this is a strong choice.
It’s best for students who need flexibility, appreciate a values-driven learning environment, and want certification that leads to real job opportunities. Just be ready to register in person and make sure you can attend the required in-person clinical hours. If you’re ready to commit, this could be the school that helps launch or enhance your healthcare career.
| Category | Details |
| Cost | $1,000 (Traditional Program); $500 (Accelerated Program) |
| Duration | 6 weeks (Traditional); 20 hours (Accelerated) |
| Class Schedules | Traditional: Day & Evening (Tue/Thu); Accelerated: Weekend only |
| Online Classes? | Yes (Hybrid format with in-person clinicals) |
| Job Placement? | Not mentioned |
| Requirements | Not specified; likely includes HS diploma/GED and in-person registration |
| Address | 14300 Cornerstone Village Dr., Suite 226, Houston, TX 77014 |
| Phone | (832) 286-4271 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.dotsonhealthcareinstitute.org |
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