Phlebotomy Schools in Texas
Texas has the second-highest employment levels of phlebotomists in the country at 11,260. Job prospects are high, particularly in the Houston, Sugarland, and The Woodlands areas. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for phlebotomists will continue to grow by 17% through 2029, which is great news for students considering training in phlebotomy in the Lone Star State.
How Can I Find the Best Phlebotomy Training Program Near Me?
There are dozens of community colleges, vocational schools and traditional universities that offer phlebotomy training in Texas. These schools can be found in many urban areas, including Dallas, Houston, Fort Worth, Irvine and Pearland.
Prospective students who live in remote areas don’t have to give up on their dream of becoming a professional phlebotomist. That’s because there are hundreds of online programs that provide the requisite training in phlebotomy. However, some online programs have clinical hours that students have to complete in person.
When choosing a school, it’s important to ensure that it has the proper accreditation. The National Phlebotomy Association is the major organization that provides accreditation for phlebotomy classes. In order to obtain licensing and employment, students need to prove that they have completed classes that include both theoretical training and practical experience drawing blood. Typically, the clinical portion of phlebotomy classes takes place in blood donation clinics, medical clinics, testing labs, and hospitals.
What Is the Phlebotomy Certification/Licensing Process in Texas?
Technically, Texas does not require phlebotomists to become licensed in order to draw blood. This is the case in many other states as well. However, many employers won’t train new applicants that don’t have their certification and experience drawing blood. Open positions usually involve an urgent need, so it’s important to pursue certification following the successful completion of your accredited phlebotomy course.
Prior to signing up for phlebotomy classes, you’ll need to obtain your high school diploma or GED. it’s important to understand the duties of a phlebotomist prior to committing your time and money to a course. Once you’re sure that this is the career for you, enroll in an accredited phlebotomy school based in Texas or online.
Many large hospitals and junior colleges offer phlebotomy courses. You can also find vocational schools that provide exceptional training for certification. If you do plan to get your certification, and this is highly recommended, do the necessary research to make sure your program covers the cogent material.
Coursework typically requires between 100 and 400 hours of classroom time on topics such as the circulatory system, anatomy, Physiology, collecting specimens and laboratory operations. Next, you complete your training at a clinic or hospital in Texas. Your duties will probably include specimen collection, venipuncture and other hands-on experience.
Then, you select a certifying association such as the following:
After passing the exam provided by the certifying association, it’s time to obtain some experience. Many employers require experience as a condition of employment. Some phlebotomists gain experience by volunteering at hospitals, health organizations or nursing homes. State licenses in Texas are renewed annually and require continuing education credits in order to stay current.
Where Can I Find a Job as a Phlebotomist in Texas?
Phlebotomy jobs are available throughout Texas. According to the BLS, the highest concentration of phlebotomy jobs falls within the Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston areas. There are over 133,000 jobs available across the nation and more than 11,000 of them are in the Lone Star State. Phlebotomists obtain jobs in Texas hospitals, clinics, blood donation centers, and physicians' offices, among other sources of employment.
What Is the Salary for a Phlebotomist in Texas?
According to the latest figures available, a new phlebotomist with little experience can make around $32,000, while more experienced phlebotomists make top salaries of $39,000. Keep in mind that phlebotomy is considered an entry-level position. Therefore, the salary range for skilled practitioners is somewhat limited.
Phlebotomy Schools By City
The following cities in Texas offer phlebotomy training schools and courses.
- Austin, TX 3 schools
- Corpus Christi, TX 2 schools
- Dallas, TX 15 schools
- El Paso, TX 6 schools
- Fort Worth, TX 10 schools
- Houston, TX 6 schools
- Laredo, TX 1 school
- Lubbock, TX 2 schools
- San Antonio, TX 6 schools