5 Things to Look for in a Good Phlebotomy School

Know Your Limitations

Like any important purchase you need to know what you can afford. Once you have a budget then you can narrow down the programs to choose from. When researching schools find out about:

• Financial Aid Packages

• Cost of Books and Materials

• Hidden Fees – i.e.: required additional training, certification cost, etc.

Flexible Courses

Fitting any educational program into your schedule is always a challenge. Make sure the school you choose has what you need as far as flexible courses. This means that if you work a full time job will the school offer nighttime and/or weekend classes. Find out if online training is available and acceptable to future employers. Be sure and ask about your responsibility when it comes to any off-site clinical hours.

Job Placement Programs

A good phlebotomy school may offer a post graduation placement program. Local hospitals, doctor’s offices, labs and clinics may be in contact with certain schools to offer an internship or job to graduates. Speak to the career counselor at the school to find out if this program exists and how successful it can be for you.

Accreditation

You should avoid attending a school that is not accredited. There are many training programs out there that simply hang out a sign and take your money leaving you with nothing more than unrecognized training. An accredited school will be acknowledged and accepted by future employers as well as certification programs which you will need to advance your career. In addition, some accredited schools are only applicable to certain geographical perimeters. It is best to make sure your school offers a national accreditation just in case you decide to move your residence in the future.

Feel Out the Environment

If you are going to spend your valuable time at a school you better make sure it is a place you will enjoy attending. Approach each institution with a discerning eye looking for:

• How well kept are the surroundings (is the paint peeling off the walls, are the facilities clean, does everything seem up to date)

• Do they offer an opportunity for you to audit a class or two (at no charge) so you can get a feel for how the curriculum is approached and taught?

• How do people treat you? Are the teachers, the staff and the students miserable or do they seem happy with their environment?

• Pull aside a few students and get their opinion on the school and if they are pleased with their decision.