Brookings Main Campus
Prepare to fill a critical role in health care.
The certificate in phlebotomy prepares students to enter the health care field as phlebotomists. Phlebotomists work in variety of settings including clinical laboratories, hospitals and community health centers, where they collect blood for donation and analysis. This role is critical in health care as the blood tests are used to diagnose illness, evaluate effectiveness of medications, and determine whether a patient is receiving proper nutrition. Following completion of the certificate, the student would be eligible for certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in caring for people's health.
- Have strong motor skills.
- Have strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Enjoy laboratory work and being part of a team that works behind the scenes in health care.
- Able to multi-task and are detail-oriented.
Career Opportunities
- Phlebotomist
- Registered phlebotomist
- Patient service technician (PST)
- Medical lab assistant
- Phlebotomy technician
- Certified medical assistant (CMA)
- Mobile examiner
- Laboratory assistant (lab assistant)
- Lab liaison technician
Suggested Majors
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.