University of Houston-Downtown Phlebotomy Technician Program

The UHD phlebotomy course covers a wide range of topics that prepare students for both certification exams and the expectations of healthcare employers. Key learning areas include:

• Blood collection techniques: venipuncture, capillary, arterial
  
• Proper order of draw and safe specimen handling
• Universal precautions and infection control
• Medical terminology and human anatomy, particularly the circulatory system
• Legal and ethical issues in healthcare
• Laboratory operations, safety, and equipment usage
• Pediatric and geriatric blood draws
• Point-of-care and special collections
• First aid, isolation protocols, and personal wellness

While hands-on practice is not included, the course does aim to equip students with the knowledge and theoretical understanding required for certification.

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The program prepares students for a range of national certification exams, including those offered by organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). While passing the course is a step toward becoming certified, students will still need to complete a separate testing process and meet additional requirements (such as live practice hours, depending on the certifying body).

It’s important to note that completion of the course alone does not guarantee certification or job placement. You’ll need to take and pass the relevant exam and potentially gain additional hands-on experience depending on the employer or state regulations.

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This course is best suited for those who are comfortable with online learning environments, such as people with prior healthcare exposure, current medical assistants looking to expand their credentials, or adults returning to school who need a low-cost and low-commitment entry point into healthcare.

It’s also a fit for individuals who want to supplement their experience with phlebotomy knowledge before applying for a certification or clinical opportunity. If you’re looking for in-person labs or externships, this program won’t meet that need—but it’s a solid foundation if you’re planning to pursue additional practical experience elsewhere.

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The program has minimal entry barriers, making it accessible to a wide range of learners. You’ll need:

• A high school diploma or GED

There are no listed age restrictions or prerequisites beyond educational background. This makes it an attractive option for those just starting their healthcare journey or transitioning into the field from a different background.

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At $1,199, the UHD program is moderately priced for a non-credit healthcare certification course. Since it’s offered entirely online, you won’t need to factor in commuting or housing costs. This makes it a cost-effective way to begin your education in phlebotomy—especially for those who already work in healthcare or want to test the waters before committing to a longer or more intensive program.

There’s no mention of payment plans or financial aid in the course listing, so students should be prepared to pay the full amount upfront. If budget is a concern, it may be worth contacting UHD’s Continuing Education department directly to inquire about support options.

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UHD’s Continuing Education (CE) division focuses on helping individuals grow professionally outside of traditional degree programs. The phlebotomy course is just one of many certificate-based offerings aimed at adult learners, career changers, and business professionals.

The CE department has a reputation for providing high-quality, non-credit training across various fields including healthcare, technology, and business. The school also offers custom training for employers and has experience working with both local and international learners.

This institutional support adds legitimacy to the course and ensures the curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current industry standards.

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