Smithwood Medical Institute Phlebotomy Program

The curriculum at Smithwood is robust and covers a wide spectrum of topics designed to give students a well-rounded understanding of phlebotomy and its role in patient care. Courses include:

• History of phlebotomy
• Quality assurance and infection control
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Equipment handling and venipuncture techniques
• Capillary and arterial punctures
• Non-blood specimen collection
• Patient communication and safety protocols
• Clinical externship and lab skill practice

Students will also pick up important soft skills like professionalism, patient interaction, and job-readiness—traits that are just as essential as technical ability in healthcare environments.

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Once the program is complete, students are eligible to sit for the National Health Careers Association’s (NHA) certification exam to become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT). To qualify, students must:

• Score at least 70% in their course
• Achieve a minimum score of 70% on the NHA certification exam
• Demonstrate competency in venipuncture and capillary techniques

Smithwood’s curriculum is built with this exam in mind, so students are not just prepared—they’re confident heading into certification.

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Smithwood has designed its admissions process to be accessible and supportive, making it easy for new students to begin their journey.

Admission Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Provide proof of high school diploma or GED
• Have a valid photo ID and Social Security Card
• Submit results of a TB skin test (PPD); additional vaccinations may be needed
• Meet with a Smithwood staff member for a consultation and tour

Prospective students will sit down with an admissions advisor to go over enrollment forms, review financial aid options, and walk through every step of the process. For those who don’t have a diploma or GED, there’s a secondary option to take the Wonderlic Basic Skills Test to prove readiness.

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Smithwood stands out for its flexible payment plans and support for students needing help financing their education. The school offers:

• Affordable deposits
• Weekly or advance payment plans
• Financial aid (for those who qualify)

There’s a financial aid advisor available to walk students and their families through all the available options. The goal is to keep costs manageable without sacrificing the quality of training.

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One of the strongest parts of the Smithwood program is its commitment to job placement assistance. From resume help and mock interviews to employer introductions and job application guidance, the school supports students every step of the way into the workforce.

During clinical training, students often work in facilities where employers actively recruit, making it easier to transition from student to employee. Smithwood also has established partnerships with major healthcare employers like:

• MD Anderson Hospital
• Houston Methodist Hospital
• Quest Diagnostics
• Memorial Hermann Hospital
• Grifols Biomat Plasma
• Davita Dialysis
• Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center
• St. Luke’s and St. Joseph Hospitals

These connections give Smithwood grads a real edge in the competitive job market.

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Student testimonials speak to both the supportive learning environment and the high level of instruction. Many credit their instructors, especially Mrs. Smith, with making a meaningful impact on their education and personal growth. The smaller class sizes and caring faculty are consistently praised, with students feeling seen, heard, and pushed to succeed.

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