Clinical Laboratory Assistant and Phlebotomy

The clinical laboratory assistant and phlebotomy program prepares students to collect blood specimens and perform tasks in the pre-analytical and analytical (waived tests) procedures. Clinical laboratory assistants, with phlebotomy training and certification, work in hospital,reference, forensic, and research laboratories that conduct diagnostic testing on human specimens.  The clinical laboratory assistant and phlebotomy program is a short-term vocational training program that leads to a certificate of achievement.  The program course of study is a combination of instruction in principles of laboratory theory and techniques and clinical experience at affiliated medical laboratories. Students learn to perform various tasks in the pre-analytical phases of testing (operation of the laboratory information systems, equipment, and evaluation of specimen suitability for testing), demonstrate effective communication and professionalism in the laboratory setting, and compliance to the federal,state, and accrediting regulatory agencies that oversee laboratory operations.Students will learn phlebotomy techniques and develop skills in a clinical setting. Program completers qualify for certification examinations accepted by the California Department of Public Health/ Laboratory Field Services Branch.

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1.      Introduce the students to the functions and duties of the Clinical Laboratory Assistant and Phlebotomist.

2.      Provide the student with direct experience inpatient care as a phlebotomist trainee in a clinical setting.

3.      Provide the student with direct experience as a lab assistant trainee in a laboratory environment.

4.      Prepare the student for the certification examinations required for employment.

Individuals who have earned a high school diploma or GED and must be 18 years or older may apply to this program. Students will be required to obtain the following clearances: health screen, background checks, drug testing, and obtain a CPR card, and liability insurance prior to MLT 413.Students are required to satisfactorily complete each course in the sequence provided before proceeding to the next course:

1.       MLT 410 Introduction to the Clinical Laboratory (16.6 hours)

2.       MLT 411 Basic Laboratory Procedures (16.6 hours)

3.       MLT 412 Phlebotomy (66.4hours)

4.       MLT 413 Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) in Phlebotomy (120 hours)