Medical Laboratory Assisting and Phlebotomy

The Hidden Profession that Saves Lives

A student in safety goggles and medical protective clothing examines a test tube sample by holding it up to the light.

In Medical Laboratory Assisting & Phlebotomy, students earn multiple industry recognized certifications and explore laboratory science careers. In the first year, students learn basic laboratory skills, prepare for working in the medical field, and complete coursework necessary to earn Phlebotomy Technician certification (CPT). The students complete their CPT by unpaid co-ops with local laboratories. Also in the first year, the students study human anatomy and physiology. In year two, coursework is completed to earn certification as a Certified Medical Laboratory Assistants (CMLA). Students participate in a minimum of 120 hours in external laboratory internships such as working in a lab, working as a phlebotomist, and working on the customer service side of the lab. Transferable laboratory skills are used to perform basic biotechnological skills while learning content related to genetics, genetic testing and gene therapy. Students also earn American Red Cross CPR/AED and First Aid certification. 


Please Note: Industry dress code is strictly enforced including no artificial nails or artificial eyelashes. To participate in required clinical hours, NYS Health Industry vaccine requirements apply including COVID-19.

Units of Study


  • Medical Terminology
  • Orientation and Safety
  • Basic Laboratory Skills
  • Introduction to Health Occupations
  • The Clinical Lab and its Employees
  • Communication and Leadership
  • Legal and Ethical
  • Regulations/Organizations in Medical Lab
  • Phlebotomy, Infection Control and Cardio
  • Special Collections for Phlebotomists 
  • Hematological Testing
  • Immunology and Blood Banking
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Financial Literacy
  • Career Connections
  • Microbiology
  • Urinalysis and Clinical Chemistry
  • Practice Medical Laboratory
  • Laboratory Assistant's Clerical Role
  • First Aid/CPR
  • Genetics and Genetic Testing
  • Clinical Laboratory Exam Review
  • Work-Based Learning Shadowing/Internship

College Credits

Monroe Community College Dual Enrollment
CLT-100: Introduction to Medical Laboratory Technology
CLT-110: Specimen Procurement and Processing
HED-130: Foundations of Health and Wellness

Nazareth College Dual Enrollment
MTH208 - Statistics for Scientists

Articulation Agreements

  • Monroe Community College
  • Nazareth College

Licensing / Industry-Based Certifications

  • National Healthcareer Association Phlebotomy Technician Certification
  • American Red Cross First Aid / CPR/AED Certification
  • American Medical Technologist Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Certification 

Career Opportunities

coming soon! 


Professional Outlook

Phlebotomists: 36.1% projected growth in jobs from 2018-28 in the Finger Lakes region. 
 
Median Finger Lakes region salary: $37,590 per year (in 2021)
 
 
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians: 22.1% projected growth in jobs from 2018-28 in the Finger Lakes region.
 
Median Finger Lakes region salary: $59,250 per year (in 2021)

 
Source: NYS Department of Labor 

Teacher

Jim Payne
As a research technician, Jim Payne studied the blood of Alzheimer's patients and the genome of the bacteria that causes cavities. His educational background includes earning a master's in education focused on grades 5-12 biology education. Jim has taught this program at WEMOCO since 2010.

Enrollment Information

Meet with your school counselor to discuss how Career & Technical Education at WEMOCO can benefit your career development. Your counselor can help you begin the enrollment process.
Intro Video
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