SCC phlebotomy graduates prepare for careers in growing healthcare field

From left: Versie McMillon, Maranda Hilbourn, Johana Ayohua, Yania Prince, Kia Walters, Alarria Chavis. 

Southeastern Community College recently celebrated the graduation of its newest phlebotomy class, a group that instructor Tanya Bellamy described as tenacious, focused and committed to supporting one another throughout the semester. 

Bellamy said the class stood out not only for its dedication to the program but also for the relationships students built along the way. She said her favorite aspect of the graduating class was the strong sense of community among its members. 

“They were a resilient, hardworking and family-oriented class,” Bellamy said. “They supported one another and stayed focused on reaching their goals.” 

SCC’s phlebotomy program continues to provide students with a pathway into the healthcare field through a one-semester certificate program designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment. The program is both state-accredited and nationally accredited through the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, known as NAACLS. 

Bellamy explained that NAACLS accreditation confirms the program meets rigorous educational standards established for clinical laboratory science programs. Accreditation also provides graduates with greater flexibility and employment opportunities across the country. 

“Because we are accredited, a student can take any registry exam for phlebotomy and can take our certificate and work anywhere in the U.S.,” Bellamy explained. “Graduates from an accredited program are often chosen over someone who is not for a job.” 

The program’s reputation also benefits employers throughout the region. Bellamy said SCC’s comprehensive curriculum ensures students develop the skills needed to succeed in the workplace while giving healthcare organizations confidence in the quality of SCC graduates. 

“The Phlebotomy program stands out for a lot of reasons,” Bellamy explained. “Employers around the region know when they hire an SCC student that they have a quality employee.” 

As healthcare continues to expand, Bellamy said the need for trained phlebotomists remains strong. Hospitals, clinics and laboratories rely on skilled professionals to perform blood collection procedures and ensure specimens are collected accurately for testing and diagnosis. 

“The importance of having phlebotomy at SCC is crucial to the community,” Bellamy said. “With the growth of the healthcare industry, there is an increasing need for trained phlebotomists.” 

The program also offers an efficient entry point for individuals seeking a healthcare career without spending years in college. In just one semester, students can earn a certificate and begin pursuing employment in a field with strong demand. 

Graduates can find employment in hospitals, blood donation centers, physicians’ offices, clinics and diagnostic laboratories. Beyond immediate job opportunities, the program provides foundational healthcare skills that can support future educational goals. 

Bellamy explained that many graduates use their phlebotomy training as a steppingstone into other healthcare programs and professions. Students often continue their education in nursing, medical laboratory technology, healthcare administration and related fields. 

“The skills and certification obtained through the phlebotomy program can serve as a steppingstone for further education in various healthcare fields,” Bellamy explained. 

With its nationally accredited curriculum, career-focused training and direct connection to workforce needs, SCC’s phlebotomy program continues to prepare students for success while helping meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals throughout the region. 

Ready to enter SCC’s phlebotomy program? Contact Student Services at 910-788-6247 to speak with a Student Advisor or stop by A-building on campus to register.