Frequently Asked Questions

Phlebotomists draw blood samples from patients to be analyzed by a medical laboratory. The laboratory depends upon on the phlebotomy technician to collect quality samples from the patient to produce quality laboratory results. Phlebotomists may work in any of the following facilities: hospital laboratories, private laboratories, blood banks, medical offices, and clinics.

The program must be completed in one semester (16 weeks for fall or spring and 10 weeks for summer). The program runs on the same semester schedule as the other college classes. The classes are a combination of in-class lecture/lab held two evenings every week and on-line coursework throughout the semester. Some of the Phlebotomy courses are completed in an 8-week session, including the internship in the second 8-weeks. The summer semester timeframe is different (between 5-10 week sections). Students must complete all the coursework within the same semester.

Classes in this program include:

• HIM 111 – Medical Terminology (3 credits)
• HLT 145 – Ethics for Healthcare (2 credits)
• MDL 105 – Phlebotomy (3 credits)
• MDL 106 – Clinical Phlebotomy (4 credits)
• MDL 190 – Clinical Internship (3 credits)
• HLT 105 – AHA CPR BLS Adult, Child, Infant with AED Training (1 credit)

• Students must be 18 years of age or older.
• Students will be required to have a criminal background check and drug screen performed before attending clinical rotations. The background check and drug screen must be negative in order to attend clinical rotations and proceed in the program. Students are responsible for the cost.
• Immunizations, including Hepatitis B and a current TST (tuberculin skin test). The student is responsible for the cost and verification.

The clinical component will be held at an assigned lab facility in Roanoke or the surrounding area (Lexington, Rocky Mount, Blacksburg, Pulaski, or Christiansburg). The program cannot guarantee a specific clinical site location. The student will need to work out any job or personal time conflicts (assignments must be a priority). Students must be prepared to work full-time day hours two days a week (subject to change) during the second eight weeks to complete the requirements for the clinical component (MDL 190) and travel to any of the above locations is the student’s responsibility. (On-site training time is unpaid.) Note: The summer semester requires more flexibility since the same content is covered in a shorter timeframe. At least 3 days a week may be necessary to complete the clinical component and the two evening classes have a longer meeting time period.

We plan to have at least 14 students in the Phlebotomy program for each program start. This allows us the opportunity to place students into a clinical facility for their MDL 190 course. We cannot place more than 14 in one semester.

Financial Aid may be available for qualified students who hold a High School diploma or GED. You may call 1-855-874-6690 or go on-line immediately to begin the process for Financial Aid (FAFSA). It can take several weeks to complete the process and receive notification. On-campus staff may be able to assist you in Chapman Hall.

You should plan for a few additional expenses beyond tuition. Some of these costs are NOT covered by financial aid. The cost of immunizations will vary based on each student’s immunization history and choice of provider. The background and urine drug screening check will be an out-of-pocket expense (approximately $110.00). Students must purchase certain attire that meets program guidelines (out-of pocket expense). Some books may have a rental or used book option. This is only an estimate and subject to change.

VWCC can award a career studies certificate at the successful conclusion of the program if the student submits a graduation application (must apply by the established semester deadline). Students are also encouraged to apply for certification through a recognized organization of their choice. Any expenses associated with a certification exam is the students responsibility. This process will be discussed prior to completion of the course.

Applicants for admission to the phlebotomy program are considered for class positions based on their ability to meet the program admission standards, without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, or other non-merit factors.