If you're on your way to starting a new career, you need to keep in mind that there are several educational path formats for you to travel down. For starters, if you want, you can go to an actual brick-and-mortar college. On the other hand, if you prefer, you always have the option to complete your studies on the Internet. You may be wondering if online classes apply if you want to become a phlebotomist. The answer is simple...YES! You can earn your phlebotomy training via phlebotomy classes online.

Involved Coursework

Knowing Where to Enroll

You have many options when it comes to getting your phlebotomy training online. Remember, the school or training agency that you choose to complete your phlebotomy classes through needs to be accredited. The best school for you to enroll in will be determined by your preferences, needs, past educational experience and more. The ins-and-outs of the exact classes that you have to take are determined by your past work experience. For example, some phlebotomy training programs will require you to complete an externship if you don't have at least six months of work-related experience.

Requirements that You Must Meet

If you want to work in the state of California as a phlebotomist, you will have to become both certified and earn a state license. To acquire these two things, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED. In addition, you will need the following:

• Complete 50 successful venipunctures
• Complete 10 successful skin punctures
• Complete 40 hours of clinical experience
• Depending on your level of experience, you may or may not have to complete 20 hours of basic classes, 40 hours of practical training and 20 hours of advanced courses

If you are looking to become a phlebotomist in another state besides California, you will likely not have to obtain a state license; however, you will need to earn certification. Without certification, most employers will simply toss your resume and move on to another job candidate who has both certification and some type or prior medical experience.

Completing your phlebotomy training online is very advantageous. You can complete each of your courses from the comfort of your home, allowing you to tend to any personal-, family- and work-related duties. Even though your classes can be completed online, you need to realize that to earn certification, you will be required to do live blood draws. Because of this, either while you complete your studies or soon after, make sure you land an externship to gain experience in conducting blood draws.

Cost of the Program

Most online phlebotomy training programs will cost you anywhere from $400 to $800.