Dallas College Phlebotomy Program

The core of the program covers 120 hours of classroom-based learning divided between two required courses:

• PLAB 1023 – Phlebotomy Technician (96 hours)
• PLAB 1091 – Phlebotomy Lab: Hands-On (24 hours)

You’ll learn venipuncture techniques, specimen collection, proper handling and labeling, infection control procedures, safety protocols, and lab professionalism. Expect hands-on learning from day one, with practical skills drilled into every session.

Students also have the chance to complete an optional 120-hour clinical rotation—something we highly recommend. It’s offered at no additional tuition cost, provides real-world experience in local healthcare facilities, and gives you a competitive edge when applying for jobs.

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After completing the classroom and clinical portions, you’ll be eligible to sit for two major national certification exams:

• ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology)
• NHA (National Healthcareer Association)

While passing either is not a requirement for program completion, these credentials can significantly increase your job opportunities and earning potential in clinical laboratories, hospitals, or physician offices.

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The base tuition is $1,890, which covers the required courses. Additional costs that may apply include:

• CPR Certification (if needed): $70
• Textbook: ~$90
• NHA Study Guide (optional): $84
• Certification Exam Fees (ASCP: $135, NHA: $129)
• Immunizations (variable): $0–$500

Clinical participation, while technically optional, is included in the total program estimate—a strong value considering many programs charge extra for externships.

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Before enrolling, all prospective students must attend a mandatory information session and submit a complete application packet. This includes several documents and health clearances:

Admission Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED (or transcript showing graduation date)
• Valid, non-expired U.S. or state-issued photo ID
• Signed Social Security card (front and back)
• Proof of personal health insurance
• Valid American Heart Association BLS CPR card (not online-only)
• Tuberculosis screening (or chest x-ray if applicable)
• Full immunization record (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, flu, hepatitis B, Tdap, meningococcal if under 23)

After registration, students must also complete:

• Drug screening
• Criminal background check

Note: These steps are not just red tape—they’re required for your safety and for eligibility to participate in clinical rotations.

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The program requires strict adherence to Texas public health rules. Expect to provide verifiable documentation for:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Hepatitis B (three-dose series)
• Tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap)
• Influenza (if enrolled fall-spring)
• Meningococcal (if 22 or younger)
• Tuberculosis screening or chest x-ray

Religious and medical exemptions are allowed but must be formally documented and may limit your placement in certain clinical sites.

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Once accepted, students are expected to:

• Wear navy blue scrubs
• Purchase required textbooks
• Obtain a Dallas College student ID badge
• Handle their own transportation and parking (note: El Centro does not have on-campus parking)

Dallas College does not supply scrubs, so be prepared to purchase them independently. Textbooks can be picked up at the campus bookstore.

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Although traditional financial aid does not cover continuing education courses, Dallas College does offer TPEG grants. To apply, students must:

1. Complete FAFSA early
2. Register for the phlebotomy program
3. Submit a TPEG form along with proof of payment

While grants won’t cover extras like books or test fees, they can ease the burden of tuition.

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Be aware that random drug and alcohol testing is part of the program. If your test is positive (without a valid prescription) or if you fail to comply, you will be dismissed from the program—and not just temporarily. A one-year wait is required before reapplying.

Background checks must show no recent felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence, drugs, or crimes of moral turpitude. If your record includes any of these, you won’t be able to participate in clinicals, which effectively ends your eligibility for certification through this program.

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After you’ve completed the coursework and (hopefully) your clinical rotation, you’ll be eligible to take the ASCP or NHA certification exam. While not legally required in Texas, having that certification can make all the difference in landing a job at a hospital, lab, or clinic.

Phlebotomists are in demand in both public and private sectors, including:

• Hospitals
• Diagnostic labs
• Blood donation centers
• Community clinics
• Insurance companies

The hands-on lab and clinical experience offered through Dallas College put you in a good position to hit the ground running once certified.

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