Free 4 week phlebotomy classes near me

There are a number of ways to get free phlebotomy training in Illinois. In this article, we look at a few of the easier options.

Before we look at actual opportunities, lets familiarize ourselves with phlebotomy as a career.

• What is Phlebotomy Training?
• Free Phlebotomy Training in Illinois
• Low Cost Training Options
• Institutions That Can Be of Help
• How much does a phlebotomist in Illinois earn?
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is Phlebotomy Training?

Phlebotomy training programs teach future phlebotomists about the process of drawing blood from patients. A high school diploma or GED is required prior to enrollment into a training program.

The length of training depends on several factors. For example, on-the-job training may be available if you are currently employed in healthcare. This may include working as a phlebotomist-in training under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. Training generally takes about one year if you are currently employed part-time.

Free Phlebotomy Training in Illinois

Illinois Central College (ICC)

115 S.W. Adams St.  Peoria, IL 61635

The phlebotomy program at Illinois Central College prepares students with the essential skills and abilities to become professional phlebotomists. Along with the typical biology and medical administrative curriculum, students are also taught the importance of effectively communicating with their patients. And they learn about medical ethics and patient privacy laws.

The ICC foundation offers several scholarships to eligible students. In order to qualify, students must meet the following guidelines:

Be residents of the ICC district

Be eligible to apply for Federal Aid

Be in good academic standing with a GPA of 2.0 or higher

Be a non-recipient of any type of tuition waiver

Phlebotomy Students at Illinois Central College could receive help paying for their training through the Illinois Map Grant.  These grants usually are in values up to $1792 and not less than $300 for a year’s worth of study. Students must take at least 3 credits to be able to be considered for this financial award. The money is usually disbursed at the end of a semester rather than in the beginning.

A person cannot apply for this particular grant without having completed a FASFA (federal financial aid application). The number of MAP grants given out in Illinois each year will depend on how many students have applied and how great the need is for funds to be distributed that year.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission determines which students qualify and also sets the amount of the grant they will receive. This grant is intended to help those who can show that they need financial help if they are going to be able to receive training or a degree. It is best to apply as early as possible each academic year to improve the chances of being approved for a grant and one of a value that will be most helpful.

City College of Chicago

1900 W. Van Buren St. Chicago, IL 60612

The City College of Chicago offers a  two-semester phlebotomy training program, which qualifies for professional certification through the National Phlebotomy Association and the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians.

Prospective students who qualify can apply for a scholarship, known as the Thomas  F Roeser City Club of Chicago Scholarship. This scholarship awards successful applicants up to $4,000 for tuition and other expenses related to their education.

In order to qualify for the scholarship, students must submit a completed application. Students must also be enrolled in the phlebotomy program, have a financial need, hold a minimum of six credits, and have a GPA of at least 2.5.

This is a good opportunity to cover costs of training if you are an individual who meets the above requirements.

College of Lake County

19351 West Washington Street-Grayslake, IL 60030

Moms who are over 30 have a unique scholarship they can apply for to help pay for training such as the Phlebotomy Program at College of Lake County.  Mothers can apply for the Determined Academic Moms Scholarship if their children live in the same household and if one or more of their children are currently 17 or younger. This scholarship does not state that it is for single mothers or mothers with other specific circumstances.

The recipient of the scholarship will be someone who is actively involved as a volunteer in their community and making a difference in Lake County.  The person must be planning to complete a career degree/training program. The individual cannot be a resident of any county other than Lake County. This scholarship is available twice per year with someone being granted the funds in the fall semester and someone again in the spring semester. The amount of the award will vary depending on various circumstances.

There is an application for this scholarship as well as a general application for all scholarships available through the college.  Students should fill out the general application since there are multiple scholarships and each has their own specific qualifying factors. So even if you aren’t awarded this scholarship, you could very well end up being awarded another.

Low Cost Training Options

Illinois Valley Community College

815 North Orlando Smith Avenue, Oglesby, Illinois 61348

The Illinois Valley Community College serves a large area in the region and surrounds regions of Oglesby, Illinois.  The campus was first introduced to the area in 1972.  This is a large campus able to serve a variety of educational needs and includes 425 of buildings and other campus features.  The college is able to serve about 4000 students each academic period.

The school offers career training options in addition to degree based programs.  One of the healthcare courses is in the area of phlebotomy. This course is one that is worth 10 credits.  Students must take the Healthcare Terminology course before they can begin the Phlebotomy coursework.  A clinical feature is also a part of this training program.

Because this is a for credit training program, you can apply for state and federal financial aid to help cover the costs of tuition. Contact the financial aid office to obtain paperwork and details on how to apply for financial aid.

Elgin Community College

1700 Spartan Drive  Elgin, IL 60123-7193

Elgin Community College dates back to 1949 and has a long history of providing excellent education options.  This school is known for providing quality education and training while providing highly competitive and affordable rates for tuition. This school offers both degree and non-degree based programs.

One of the training opportunities for men and women is for those who wish to work as phlebotomy professionals.  Individuals who want to work immediately in their field will need to complete the CLT 101 course.  If an individual wants to be able to receive a certificate of completion and to sit for the phlebotomy certification exam, they will also need to complete the CLT 120 level phlebotomy/lab technician training course.

Blackhawk College

6600 34th Ave. Moline, IL 61265

309-854-1700

Their phlebotomy course requires students to finish 20 venipunctures and 15 capillary sticks before graduating. They will learn about quality control and patient safety. The course spans 10-12 weeks in length.

Individuals cannot enroll in this course without a recent TB test and thorough health exam. Students need to have graduated high school and reached the age of 18.

College of DuPage

425 Fawell Blvd. Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

(630) 942-2999

They have a phlebotomy/EKG training program. This is a pretty intensive course. It consists of 12 college credits of study. Students will receive comprehensive training that will allow a high level of competitiveness when seeking a job in the industry.

Students will learn all skills needed to work as a phlebotomist this is taught through both instruction and hands on learning. The course also provides the training needed to work as an EKG technician. This makes a graduate double marketable when applying for a job.

Stars Academy

Hill Creek Plaza 8077 W. 95th St. Hickory Hills, IL 60457 708-233-0590

Tuition for this program is $1600. But as a career training program, you may be able to get the training for free through initiatives for individuals on public assistance benefits, unemployment or disability-if any of these things apply to you.

Their course is 3 days per week and lasts for 4 weeks. If you complete the course with success, you can sit for the national certification exam for phlebotomy technicians.

The course teaches you how to draw blood and how to collect and prepare blood and other lab samples. You will learn infection control and sterile procedures. The course will teach you about medical ethics and how to always provide the highest level of care to patients.

Institutions That Can Be of Help

Worknet Center

Freeport Office
1826 South West Avenue
Freeport, Illinois 61032

Woodstock
500 Russell Court
Woodstock, Illinois 60098

Family Services Center
100 West Randolph Street
Chicago, Illinois 60601

Want to get a glimpse of what will be included when you are getting trained? 

The phlebotomy technician certification exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions. The allowed time for the test is two hours, and students must score 70% or above to pass. Although certification is not mandatory in Illinois, it may lead to higher pay and additional job opportunities.

The following two questions are examples that prospective phlebotomists may encounter during the examination:

Question:

What happens in the cytogenetic area of the laboratory?

1. samples are examined for irregular cell structure
2. blood is measured for pH levels
3. samples are examined for chromosomal irregularities
4. blood tissue is transferred to patients

Answer:

C – Large laboratories typically have a cytogenetic area. In this section of the lab, samples are examined for chromosomal irregularities that relate to genetic disease. Specimens used for these studies include blood, tissue, and amniotic fluid.  DNA fingerprinting and molecular genotyping are also performed in this setting.

Question:

In what section of the hospital is the STAT lab usually located?

1. emergency department
2. oncology department
3. intensive care unit
4. none of the above

Answer:

A – STAT means immediately.  STAT labs are located in the emergency department so healthcare staff can immediately respond to medical emergencies. During certain health issues, diagnostic laboratory tests must be available on site.

How much does a phlebotomist in Illinois earn?

The average phlebotomy salary in Illinois is $35,220 per year and may vary depending on the city and many other important factors including education, certification and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a job with just a phlebotomy certificate? Yes, once you’re certified, you can work at hospitals, nursing homes, blood donation centers, private practices etc.

Can a nurse be a phlebotomist? Nurses don’t usually draw blood unless they need to under specific circumstances and they don’t need to be formally certified.Sometimes they will attend a class to gain more experience or credentials,

Do hospitals offer phlebotomy training? Usually, hospital-related training is provided at hospitals and colleges too. It depends on the city you live in. But yes, there are some healthcare facilities offering training courses.

Does American Red Cross offer phlebotomy training? The Red Cross offers a phlebotomy training program which includes CPR training and blood collection techniques.

Is phlebotomy worth the money? Phlebotomy training does not cost a lot of money, it is a much better option than many jobs especially if you’re someone who can handle working with needles and like working with people.

How long does phlebotomy training take? This will depend on the course in which you are enrolled. You can easily find courses that are six weeks or less. Some more advanced courses will take 3-4 months to complete.