Western Technical College
Published on Western Technical College (https://www.westerntc.edu)

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Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor

  • Technical Diploma
Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor image

Program Number: 

305132

Program Credits: 

4.00

Estimated Total Cost: 

$656.60

Typical Start: 

Fall, Spring
Not Financial Aid Eligible

Get the skills you need to start making a difference in healthcare-fast. In just four credits, Western's Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor program equips you with hands-on training to collect and process patient samples, operate modern lab equipment, and support critical diagnostic testing. This short-term credential is also part of the Medical Lab Technician associate degree pathway, giving you the flexibility to continue your education and expand your career options. With strong job growth and competitive wages, this program offers a rewarding entry point into the healthcare field.

This program will be available starting fall 2026.

Career Opportunities

Phlebotomist
Lab Assistant
Specimen Processor
Lab Support Staff

Program Outcomes

  • Practice laboratory safety
  • Collect and process biological specimens
  • Model professional behaviors, ethics, and appearance

Admission Requirements:

College Requirements

Application: 

Yes

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Transcript: 

High School or GED/HSED Transcript

Software and Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [1].

Computer/Laptop Hardware

  • Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
  • Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
  • Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

  • Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [2].
  • Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
  • Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [3] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

  • Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [4]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [5].
  • The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [6] or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

  • Contact the Learning Commons [7]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Career Pathways: 

Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor

Prior Learning: 

Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [8] about what may apply to this program.

Technical Diploma: 

Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor

Associate Degree: 

Medical Lab Technician

Courses

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [9] for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [10] self-service portal for academic planning.

First Term

Basic Lab Skills
Course Number: 10513110
Credits: 1.00
Phlebotomy
Course Number: 10513111
Credits: 2.00
Strengths Seminar
Course Number: 10890106
Credits: 1.00

Western Technical College
400 7th Street North
La Crosse, Wisconsin
54601

608-785-9200
800-322-9982


Links
[1] https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DniDXv9HckGZ5BpZ1xtAINzEPDqm29RGnADqdoibRwxUM0ZIV0tLRE1OS0NaOTY5U01aOFNVNDdVUS4u
[2] https://westerntc.libguides.com/blackboardforstudents/
[3] https://kb.westerntc.edu/112380
[4] https://www.westerntc.edu/computer-labs
[5] https://www.westerntc.edu/regional-locations
[6] mailto:LearningCommons@westerntc.edu
[7] https://www.westerntc.edu/learning-commons
[8] https://www.westerntc.edu/credit-prior-learning
[9] https://www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks
[10] https://mywestern.westerntc.edu/