8 Affordable Online Phlebotomy Classes
Reviewed by Maegan Baker, BSN RN CCM
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The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a trend already in motion: the rise of online education. Now, even phlebotomy, a skill once thought to be strictly hands-on, is being taught from the comfort of one's home. As more institutions adapt to this digital shift, a variety of online phlebotomy courses have become available, each with its distinct features and considerations.
In this analysis, we evaluate eight notable online phlebotomy courses, focusing on key aspects that potential students might consider before enrolling. While online phlebotomy programs might, at first glance, all look the same, we found the following to be key differentiators:
- Value Proposition: Online phlebotomy courses typically range from $500 to $2000. Tuition can vary, based on additional certificates, career counseling, or test vouchers.
- Clinical Experience: Acquiring hands-on experience in drawing blood is essential and often a requirement for widely-recognized certifications like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Certification. However, not all online courses provide this practical component.
- Location Constraints: Despite being online, some courses still tie their hands-on sessions to specific geographic locations.
- State Regulations: It's important for potential students to be aware that certain states, such as California and Nevada, have specific phlebotomy regulations, and not all online programs will meet these standards.
Online Phlebotomy Classes, Cheapest to Most Expensive
In our assessment, we've prioritized courses that offer more than mere video content, emphasizing those with active instructor support and accreditation. Our findings are organized by cost for easy reference.
Note: Tuition and other program information is current as of August 2023.
Phlebotomy Orlando
Phlebotomy Orlando offers both online and in-class phlebotomy training options, ensuring flexibility for students. Accredited and recognized by the state of Florida, graduates are eligible to take the National Phlebotomy Certification Examination (NPCE) to obtain their license. In addition to theoretical knowledge, the program emphasizes hands-on training, dedicating a week each month to practical sessions, ensuring students are well-prepared for real-world scenarios.
Cost: $500
In-person training: Students are required to participate in hands-on training.
What to know: Phlebotomy Orlando only offers courses in Florida. Night classes are also available.
Learn more about Phlebotomy Orlando
Phlebotomy Career Training
Phlebotomy Career Training, located in Michigan, provides both online and in-person phlebotomy courses. In this self-paced course, students can complete the online curriculum in as little as four weeks but must complete the course within six months.. They advertise that 95% of their graduates secure jobs after completing the program.
Cost: $594
In-person training: Students must secure a clinical externship themselves, but if they are unable to, then the school will provide a Virtual Simulation Kit (VSK). 30 successful blood draws are required to graduate from this program.
What to know: They cover the cost of taking the National Association of Phlebotomy Technician Professionals (NAPTP) certification exam, a $116 value.
Learn more at Phlebotomy Career Training
Stepful
Stepful, an online medical training provider established two years ago, offers courses that are 100% online. Stepful’s phlebotomy program boasts an 80% completion rate and a 90% certification rate. Stepful particularly appeals to current healthcare professionals looking to enhance their skills and credentials. They are not an approved phlebotomy course in California, Nevada, and Louisiana.
Cost: $700 + $59 enrollment fee
In-person training: According to Stepful, “[s]tudents must locate their own site to complete clinical requirements.”
What to know: They offer dedicated 1:1 coaching to assist you in finding a full-time job.
U.S. Career Institute (USCI)
The U.S. Career Institute offers a comprehensive online phlebotomy technician course tailored for independent learners, typically completed within 3-5 months. For a one-time fee of $979, students not only gain access to the course but also have the NHA CPT certification exam fees covered, translating to a $200 savings. Those opting for installment payments will pay a total cost of $1,279. To further support students on their career path, the institute provides a dedicated career coach to guide them.
Cost: $979 when paid in full
In-person training: USCI does not offer a clinical externship.
What to know: USCI is not an approved program for residents of California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington.
Heart to Heart Healthcare (H2H) Training
Heart to Heart Healthcare Training provides an 8-week phlebotomy program in Michigan and Texas, combining online lectures with in-person lab sessions conducted twice a week. The curriculum encompasses topics such as anatomy, physiology, safety, and medical terminology.
Cost: $1,175
In-person training: Students must attend lab twice a week for two hours.
What to know: This class is only available for Texas and Michigan residents. Students are required to purchase a set of dark purple scrubs and a phlebotomy textbook. Tuition also does not include the fee to sit for the national exam ($114.50).
Learn more at Heart to Heart Healthcare
Career Step
Career Step's Phlebotomy Technician Program offers a detailed online training experience, combining 325 hours of coursework with a 40-hour clinical externship. This self-paced program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills for the CPT certification exam. With 24/7 web access, students can study at their convenience, and they are supported through phone, live chat, and email. Additionally, the program assists in securing externship opportunities, ensuring students are eligible for certification.
Cost: $1,899
In-person training: Clinical hours are integral to your phlebotomy technician training, offering real-world experience, but placement in all areas is not guaranteed due to various factors.
What to know: This program includes an exam voucher and prep package for the CPT certification exam.
Learn more at Career Step
MedCerts
MedCerts offers a 12-week online Phlebotomy Technician program approved by Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs that prepares students for NHA's CPT exam. It’s important to note that residents of CA, WA, WI, ND, RI, LA, and GA are not eligible to enroll in this program.
The curriculum includes modules on Professionalism in Allied Health, Introduction to Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology, and Phlebotomy.
Cost: $2,000 paid in full or monthly payment options starting at $121.
Clinical externship: This program does not include in-person training, and students are recommended to already be working in the field to complete the requirement of 30 venipunctures and 10 capillary sticks.
What to know: MedCerts covers the cost of video-based training, phlebotomy ebook, competency assessments, and CPT certification exam fee.
American National University
American National University (ANU) offers an online Phlebotomy + ECG Technician certificate program. Unlike many traditional courses, this program delves into both phlebotomy and electrocardiography (ECG), using electronic simulators for hands-on learning. The certificate is designed primarily for individuals with an associate or bachelor’s degree, and it prepares graduates for the National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT) and National ECG Technician (NCET) exams.
Cost: $12,600
In-person training: The course requires 120 hours of on-site experience. ANU helps coordinate externships at a local doctor’s office or clinic.
What to know: ANU may accept transfer credits from other schools.
Factors to Consider When Selecting an Online Phlebotomy Program
When evaluating online phlebotomy programs, it's essential to look beyond in-person training, certification eligibility, and cost. Consider the following outcomes that may significantly influence the overall quality and potential outcomes of your educational journey.
Course Duration
While the allure of quickly completing training to jumpstart earnings is tempting, it's crucial to gauge the pace that suits you best. Self-guided courses offer flexibility, but they also demand a high level of self-discipline to prevent unnecessary delays.
Certification Success Rate
It's beneficial to choose a program known for its high certification success rate. Remember, a course's affordability and brevity won't matter if it falls short of adequately preparing you for the certification examination.
Certification Type
The NHA's CPT certification stands as the gold standard in the phlebotomy field. If you've already landed a position or are in talks with potential employers, ensure that the course's certification aligns with their specific requirements.
Accreditation or State Approval
Accreditation isn't just a badge; it's an assurance of quality. Always give precedence to accredited programs as they consistently meet established educational standards. If you live in a state that regulates phlebotomy, attending a state-approved course may be necessary to work in that state.
Job Placement Support
While some courses offer job placement guarantees, even going as far as to refund tuition if employment isn't secured within a set timeframe, it's the additional support that can make a difference. Look for programs that extend services like resume assistance and interview coaching to give you an edge in the competitive job market.
Certification Exam Voucher
To become a certified phlebotomy technician, you must pass a certification exam. Some course providers offer to pay for this exam, so consider this benefit when comparing program costs.
Final Thoughts
For many, taking an online phlebotomy course is a convenient path toward phlebotomy certification. However, fulfilling the clinical requirements can be challenging. The widely recognized NHA’s CPT test, for instance, mandates a minimum of 30 successful venipunctures and 10 successful capillary sticks for eligibility. If you're already a healthcare professional who performs blood draws, or if you're certain you can secure clinical practice—be it through an internship or another avenue—an online certification course may be suitable. If not, considering an in-person course at a local community college or training center might be more beneficial, as they can ensure the hands-on experience you'll need.