Best Phlebotomy Schools in Montana

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in school, phlebotomy can be a smart choice. It's a hands-on career focused on skill and accuracy. The training is short, and the demand for competent phlebotomists in hospitals, clinics, and labs is steady 1.

Here's what you need to know about getting your phlebotomy training in Montana.

Phlebotomy Certification in Montana

Montana does not require a state license to work as a phlebotomist. Most employers will want you to have completed an accredited training program and passed a national certification exam such as:

  • NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
  • ASCP Phlebotomy Technician (PBT)
  • NCCT National Certified Phlebotomy Technician

Certification isn't required by the state, but many Montana employers list it as a job requirement. Completing a recognized program makes you more competitive.

The basic path looks like this:

  1. Choose a state-approved or nationally accredited program.
  2. Finish classroom and lab training.
  3. Complete a clinical externship for hands-on experience.
  4. Sit for your certification exam.
  5. Apply for entry-level positions in hospitals, labs, or donor centers.

Training Program Structure

Most Montana programs run from 4 to 12 weeks depending on schedule and pace. Training covers:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Infection control and safety
  • Venipuncture and capillary collection techniques
  • Specimen handling and processing
  • Professional communication with patients
Program Length Typical Format Clinical Hours
4-6 weeks Accelerated, full-time 40-60
8-12 weeks Part-time, evenings 40-80

Always confirm clinical hour requirements with your chosen school.

Best Phlebotomy Schools in Montana

Below is a list of well-regarded training options. All offer coursework that will prepare you for national certification exams.

1. Montana State University - Billings Continuing Education

MSU Billings offers a non-credit phlebotomy program designed for fast entry into the field. The class includes lecture, lab practice, and a supervised clinical experience.

2. Flathead Valley Community College

FVCC provides a comprehensive program covering specimen collection, safety, and patient interaction. Students complete both classroom and real-world lab experiences.

  • Location: Kalispell, MT
  • Format: Semester-based course with lab and externship
  • Website: FVCC Allied Health

3. Great Falls College - Montana State University

This program combines in-person lab instruction with clinical placement in healthcare facilities. It's geared toward students seeking an entry-level healthcare role or additional credential.

4. Bitterroot College - University of Montana

Bitterroot College's phlebotomy training focuses on practical skills for immediate employment. Includes preparation for the NHA exam.

  • Location: Hamilton, MT
  • Format: Hybrid of online lecture and on-campus labs
  • Website: Bitterroot College UM

How to Choose the Right Program

When comparing phlebotomy schools in Montana, look for:

  • Accreditation: Check that the program is recognized by a national certification body.
  • Clinical partnerships: Strong externship placements help with job readiness.
  • Schedule flexibility: Evening or part-time programs are better for working adults.
  • Certification success rates: Ask the school how many graduates pass their exams.

National Certification Exams

After training, you'll take a national exam to prove your skills. Most tests include:

  • Multiple-choice questions on anatomy and procedures.
  • Practical skills demonstration (in some cases).
  • Documentation and safety protocols.

Popular certifying organizations:

Job Outlook in Montana

The demand for phlebotomists in Montana is increasing as healthcare services expand, especially in rural and regional hospitals 1. Many positions are in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and blood donation centers. While the state doesn't set licensing rules, employers value certified, experienced applicants.

Getting Started

Here's a simple plan to start your phlebotomy career in Montana:

  1. Choose a program within commuting distance or with an online/clinical hybrid format.
  2. Apply early since class sizes are often limited.
  3. Complete training and externship with attention to skill development.
  4. Register for your national certification exam right after training.
  5. Begin applying to local hospitals, labs, and clinics.

Tip: Keep your CPR and First Aid training current. Some employers in Montana require it in addition to phlebotomy certification.

Summary

Phlebotomy training in Montana is short, focused, and practical. You don't need a state license, but certification is strongly recommended. With the right school, you can be job-ready in a matter of weeks.

The next step? Pick a program from the list above, contact the school for enrollment details, and set your training start date. The sooner you begin, the sooner you'll be ready to work in one of Montana's growing healthcare facilities.

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Phlebotomists ↩ ↩

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