Program descriptionPhlebotomy is a short-term program that prepares students to become a vital part of the health care team. The program includes six classes (15 credits) and leads to a Career Development Certificate. An internship or co-op work experience is included.Typical dutiesThe phlebotomist often has been called the “ambassador” from the laboratory to the patient. Phlebotomists work for medical laboratories:
• Collecting blood samples from patients
• Performing related technical procedures
• Handling the associated clerical work
• Assembling equipment such as blood collection devices, tourniquets, needles and swabs
• Explaining the procedure of giving blood and trying to reduce the patients’ fearsOpportunities for additional educationThe CDC in phlebotomy can be the first step in an exciting career and education pathway. Many students earn the credential, secure a job in the health care field and then continue to work toward more advanced credentials, such as an Associate of Applied Science degree in medical laboratory technology—often with tuition support from their employer. For more information about the Phlebotomy Stair Step, contact the Office of Admissions at the nearest Ivy Tech
campus.Knowledge and preparationCourse work and/or practical experience in the following areas can contribute to success as a phlebotomist:
• Customer and personal service–Knowledge of providing special services to customers based on their needs.
• Skills and academic courses–Basic computer skills, algebra, biology, chemistry, English, health, physics, psychologyEmployment outlookEmployment for phlebotomists is expected to grow as fast as average (10 to 20 percent) through 2008.Occupational areas• Hospitals
• Physician offices
• Blood banks
• Donor centers
• Medical laboratoriesEarningsNational: Average wage $8.10 an hour
Indiana: Average wage $10.00 an hourArea employers of program graduates• South Bend Medical Foundation
• South Bend Clinic
• St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Plymouth
Sources: Indiana Career and Postsecondary Advancement Center (ICPAC); surveys of program graduatesAccreditationThe Phlebotomy program is approved by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

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