Best Phlebotomy Schools in Illinois

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to start a healthcare career quickly, phlebotomy is a solid choice. You can finish training in a few months, and the skills are in demand across Illinois.

Here's what you need to know to choose the right school and get certified.

How Phlebotomy Works in Illinois

Phlebotomists are trained to draw blood for medical tests, donations, and transfusions. In Illinois, you don't need a state license to work as a phlebotomist, but most hospitals and labs require national certification.

In Illinois, phlebotomy is regulated through employer requirements rather than a state licensing agency. Completing an accredited program is the most reliable path to getting hired.

Most employers in Illinois expect you to hold a certificate from a recognized body such as:

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

Steps to Become a Phlebotomist in Illinois

  1. Complete a phlebotomy training program from an accredited school.
  2. Gain hands-on practice through clinical hours.
  3. Pass a national certification exam from NHA, ASCP, AMT, or another recognized provider.
  4. Apply for positions in hospitals, labs, clinics, and blood centers.
  5. Maintain your certification through continuing education.

Training Program Overview

Most Illinois phlebotomy courses take 4 to 16 weeks. They combine classroom training with clinical experience.

Training Component Typical Hours
Classroom & Lab Instruction 40-80 hours
Clinical/Externship 20-40 hours
Total 60-120 hours

Subjects usually include:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Blood collection techniques
  • Safety and infection control
  • Laboratory procedures
  • Patient interaction and communication

Best Accredited Phlebotomy Schools in Illinois

Below are some of the top options across the state. All programs listed prepare you for national certification.

1. Malcolm X College - Chicago

Part of the City Colleges of Chicago, Malcolm X offers a Phlebotomy Technician Basic Certificate. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical training through local healthcare partners.

Program Length: 1 semester
Website: https://www.ccc.edu/colleges/malcolm-x

2. College of DuPage - Glen Ellyn

COD's Phlebotomy Program provides training in both basic and advanced techniques. Students complete 48 hours of lecture/lab followed by 100 hours in a clinical externship.

Program Length: 1-2 semesters
Website: https://www.cod.edu

3. Illinois Central College - East Peoria

ICC offers a Phlebotomy Technician Program that prepares students for the ASCP Board of Certification exam. Clinical training takes place in nearby hospitals and labs.

Program Length: 16 weeks
Website: https://icc.edu

4. Oakton College - Des Plaines & Skokie

Oakton's Phlebotomy Certificate Program includes lecture, lab, and 100 hours of clinical practice. Offers flexible schedules for working students.

Program Length: 1 semester
Website: https://www.oakton.edu

5. Moraine Valley Community College - Palos Hills

MVCC's program is designed to provide entry-level skills and eligibility for national certification exams. Excellent local hospital network for clinical rotations.

Program Length: 1 semester
Website: https://www.morainevalley.edu

What to Look for When Choosing a Phlebotomy School

When you compare programs, focus on:

  • Accreditation - Look for approval by recognized agencies.
  • Clinical hours - More hands-on time increases your skills and employability.
  • Certification preparation - Ensure testing for NHA, ASCP, or AMT is included in the curriculum.
  • Location and schedule - Choose a program you can attend consistently.
  • Partnerships with healthcare facilities - These can open doors to local job opportunities.

Certification Exams

The most common certification in Illinois is Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) through NHA. The exam covers safety, collection techniques, and patient interaction. Other certifications like ASCP's Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) are also widely recognized.

Always confirm which certification your prospective employer prefers before scheduling your exam.

Career Settings in Illinois

Phlebotomists in Illinois can find work in:

  • Hospitals
  • Diagnostic laboratories
  • Physician offices
  • Blood donation centers
  • Public health clinics

Continuing Education

Certifications usually need renewal after two years. You must complete continuing education hours, which can include:

  • Online courses
  • In-person workshops
  • Additional healthcare training

Final Advice

Phlebotomy is a fast and practical way into the healthcare field. Illinois has many strong programs, and most can be finished in under a semester.

Here's what you should do next:

  1. Contact at least two schools from the list above.
  2. Ask for tuition details, clinical site locations, and schedules.
  3. Make sure the program prepares you for a recognized certification exam.

Once you complete training and get certified, you'll be ready for entry-level work in hospitals, labs, or clinics across Illinois.

Back to Illinois Trade Schools

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