Skip to main content

Phlebotomists collect human blood samples for the purpose of medical laboratory testing.

The Community Colleges of Spokane's phlebotomy technician program is offered in fall and spring quarters. This intensive 8-week program provides students with the fundamental skills for entry-level work in the phlebotomy profession. Expert classroom instruction combined with clinical internships prepare students to:

  • Select and prepare skin puncture sites.
  • Use a variety of blood drawing techniques.
  • Prepare and maintain laboratory supplies and equipment.
  • Provide professional, safe, quality patient care.

Over the course of 8 weeks, students will complete online course work, in person lab practice, and in person clinical placements at facilities around Spokane County.

Each assignment, quiz or exam must have a minimum score of 75% to pass. A score of less than 75% for any portion of the class upon completion may result in failing of the course.

Students who successfully complete this program will be prepared to sit for the ASCP Board of Registry Phlebotomy exam.

To be placed on the interest list or for more information, email: cehealthandmed@ccs.spokane.edu or call (509) 279-6144.

In Washington State, specific criminal convictions, pending charges, and negative actions can disqualify individuals from obtaining certification as a phlebotomist or working in roles that involve unsupervised access to vulnerable populations. Some of the disqualifying offenses include:

  1. Crimes against children or vulnerable adults, such as abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
  2. Violent crimes, including murder, assault, kidnapping, or robbery.
  3. Sexual offenses, including sexual assault and indecent liberties.
  4. Financial exploitation crimes, such as theft or identity theft.
  5. Drug-related offenses, particularly those involving the manufacturing or distribution of controlled substances.

The Washington Administrative Code (WAC 388-113) outlines these disqualifications and includes a comprehensive list of crimes and other disqualifying factors. Additionally, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) provides further guidance for criminal history checks applicable to various professions, including phlebotomists.

For the complete list and further details, visit the DSHS disqualifying crimes page and the WAC 388-113 regulations.

Spokane Course Cost:

Certificate course fee updated to $2,275

(Includes Lab Fee, Drug Screen, Insurance Fee & National Background Check)               

Additional Fees:
Parking Pass: $35.00

*Out of State Tuition does not apply. Prices are subject to change and may not include sales tax. Please contact (509) 279-6144 for pricing and information for our Coville phlebotomy program.

Tuition Assistance:

The phlebotomy program is a non-credit course and is not eligible for federal financial aid.  Additional funding options as listed:

  • WorkFirst (WorkFirst Financial Aid may be available for TANF eligible recipients.) tuition assistance questions should be directed to the SCC WorkFirst office at 509-533-8210
  • SCC Worker Retraining Program 509-533-8056
  • Career Path Services 509-227-2892
  • Vocational Rehabilitation Services 509-363-4700
  • Workforce Investment Act (WIA) through WorkSource at 509-532-3109
  • Workforce Transitions: 509-533-7249; SCC Campus - Building 6 Room 112

We encourage you to take a quick funding survey at startnextquarter.org to see if you qualify for tuition assistance.

To apply for a phlebotomy certification in Washington State, there are no specific immunization requirements explicitly listed by the Department of Health for certification purposes. However, many phlebotomy training programs and healthcare employers may require proof of immunizations as part of their policies to ensure safety in clinical environments. Commonly required vaccines may include:

  1. Hepatitis B: Often required due to the potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
  2. MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella): Proof of vaccination or immunity is typically expected.
  3. Varicella (Chickenpox): Either vaccination proof or immunity documentation.
  4. Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): Especially for healthcare workers.
  5. Influenza: Annual vaccination, depending on the season.
  6. COVID-19: Vaccination may be required by certain employers or facilities.

Since requirements can vary depending on your training program or place of employment, it's a good idea to confirm with your phlebotomy program or employer regarding their specific immunization policies.

For more detailed information about the certification process, you can visit the Washington State Department of Health's Medical Assistant-Phlebotomist Certification page.