University of Houston Phlebotomy Program

Although this is an online course, it’s not passive. You’ll complete practical assignments using a phlebotomy lab kit and expansion kit that gets shipped to your home. These tools allow you to simulate real procedures while following along with videos and assignments.

The curriculum includes modules on blood collection techniques, anatomy, infection control, and post-procedure protocols. You’ll also cover topics like legal and ethical issues, patient safety, and quality assurance. The medical terminology component allows experienced students to “test out” of certain lessons with a passing score of 80% or higher.

---

Students may apply for clinical experience after completing the online coursework and ensuring their account is paid in full. Placement is not guaranteed and depends on the availability of local partners. If a match is found, the clinical site provides the chance to gain hands-on training.

While this part of the program is optional, it’s worth considering if you’re looking to meet the venipuncture and dermal puncture experience requirements for national certification. Students are responsible for researching and coordinating this process.

---

Course objectives include:

• How to draw blood and collect samples correctly
• Patient interaction and managing pre-draw anxiety
• Infection control and safety practices
• Handling, labeling, and transporting specimens
• Legal responsibilities and ethics in healthcare
• Medical terminology and anatomy related to phlebotomy

The structure includes multiple modules with reading materials, practice activities, quizzes, and video demonstrations.

---

The total cost is $2,295, with financing options available. Here’s what you get for the price:

• Online access to all course content
• Lab kit and simulation tools shipped to your home
• Textbooks and course materials included
• Voucher for the NHA CPT exam
• Medical terminology course with optional test-out
• Access to optional clinical experience application process

While this price is on the higher side compared to local in-person programs, it includes a lot of value for students who prefer to learn from home or need a self-paced environment.

---

To enroll, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have access to a video-capable device (for submitting assignment videos)
• Be comfortable using a computer and basic online tools

If you plan to pursue NHA certification, you must complete the required number of venipunctures and dermal punctures, which may necessitate clinical placement.

---

One unique feature of this program is its instructor quality. The faculty includes highly experienced healthcare professionals like:

• Dr. Rox Ann Sparks, a DNP and certified nurse educator
• Dr. Barry Martin, a certified medical laboratory scientist
• Dr. Georgia McCauley, with over 40 years in laboratory science
• Barrie Lange-Schneithorst, healthcare compliance and billing expert

These instructors contribute to course content, guide discussions, and support students in online forums.

---

To complete the program successfully, students need:

• A PC, Mac, or Chromebook
• Access to Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox (preferred)
• Microsoft Word Online and Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Email account for communication
• A video camera for recording and uploading lab assignment submissions

These tools must be fully operational before starting the course.

---

Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for phlebotomists is strong, with 8% job growth expected through 2033. Average annual salaries are around $41,810, with top earners making over $55,000.

You won’t be guaranteed a job after completing the course, but you’ll have the skills and certification needed to pursue entry-level roles in hospitals, labs, and clinics.

---

Although this is a self-paced course, support is still available. You’ll have access to:

• A discussion board moderated by instructors
• A student advising team to help with administrative questions
• Technical support for navigating the course platform

Be aware that the student advising team cannot help with course content or tutoring.

---

This course is not a good fit for students looking for fast-track training or guaranteed clinical placement. It’s also not approved for California residents, so make sure it aligns with your state’s requirements before enrolling.

Funding options like FAFSA or Pell Grants do not apply here. Some third-party workforce programs may help, but you’ll need to verify that yourself.

Also, while the course includes clinical preparation, students are responsible for arranging their own placement—a factor that may limit practical experience for some.

---