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HCDE Adult Education Phlebotomy Program

Key Takeaways:

A Tuition-Free Path into Healthcare

The Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) delivers an accessible, no-cost phlebotomy training program that’s backed by the Texas Workforce Commission. This course is tailored for individuals who are ready to start a career in healthcare but need a supportive, cost-free training option to do it.

The program runs for 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the schedule and location, and includes both theory and hands-on instruction. From patient care and infection control to learning how to properly collect and handle blood specimens, students gain the essential skills needed to work in a medical setting.


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What You’ll Learn

The curriculum covers the foundational knowledge and technical skills needed for entry-level phlebotomy work. Topics include:

  • Healthcare settings and medical ethics
  • Legal and safety issues in clinical environments
  • Human anatomy, with a focus on the circulatory system
  • Infection prevention and control procedures
  • Specimen collection, including venipuncture and nonblood draws
  • Communication and patient interaction
  • Handling and transporting samples safely

Each module is designed to build confidence and readiness for the healthcare workplace, with special attention to safety and patient care.


Certification and Exam Eligibility

Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification exam to become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician. This credential is widely accepted and can help graduates qualify for jobs in hospitals, clinics, labs, and donor centers.

The exam fee is covered as part of the program, which is a significant advantage for students who might otherwise struggle with the cost of certification.


Admission Requirements

This program is only open to eligible individuals who meet a set of criteria. To apply, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old (some exceptions apply)
  • Live in Harris or Liberty County
  • Have a government-issued photo ID
  • Be authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Not hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
  • Be able to commit to 6–12 weeks of instruction
  • Pass a drug test and background check
  • Complete placement assessments and certification exams

These requirements help ensure that the program is serving those who need it most—individuals who are ready to work and grow but may lack the financial resources or traditional academic background to enroll in college-level programs.


Learning Format and Schedule Options

HCDE offers morning and evening class options, including ESL-supportive instruction for non-native English speakers. This flexibility is a key strength, especially for adults balancing family, work, or other obligations.

All training is conducted in-person at designated sites around Houston, including HCDE’s main location at 6515 Irvington Blvd. Courses include materials and lab instruction—students won’t need to worry about hidden textbook or supply fees.


Strong Support for Student Success

This isn’t just a technical course—it’s a guided pathway into the healthcare workforce. HCDE partners with agencies and employers throughout the region to help graduates move directly from training into employment. Career services, resume help, job referrals, and skill-building workshops are all part of the package.

For students who might need extra support, HCDE also offers GED prep, ESL courses, and career coaching. Whether you need academic help or guidance finding the right job after certification, this program builds a strong support system around you.


A Community-Focused Mission

HCDE has been serving Houston-area residents for decades and places a strong emphasis on equity, empowerment, and opportunity. Their adult education division works to serve those who’ve been underrepresented or underserved—whether due to economic challenges, educational gaps, or barriers to employment.

They believe in lifting people up through free, high-quality, workforce training, and this phlebotomy program is a great example of that mission in action.


What Makes This Program Unique?

What sets HCDE apart is its commitment to accessibility without sacrificing quality. The program is fully funded for eligible students and includes both academic and personal support services. It’s not just about getting certified—it’s about building a foundation for long-term success in the healthcare industry.

Because there are no tuition costs, the barrier to entry is lower than most programs in the area. And since certification and all materials are included, there’s less financial risk for students trying to take a new career step.


Is This School Right for You?

CategoryDetails
Cost:Free for eligible residents
Duration:6–12 weeks
Class Schedules:Morning and evening options; in-person classes
Online Classes?:No
Job Placement?:Yes – Career support and referrals offered
Requirements:– At least 18 years old – Live in Harris or Liberty County – Government-issued photo ID – Authorized to work in the U.S. – No bachelor’s degree or higher – Commit to attendance – Pass drug test & background check – Take placement assessments
Address:6515 Irvington Blvd., Houston, TX 77022
Phone:713-692-6216
Email:[email protected]
Website:https://www.hcde-texas.org/adult-education/certification

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