If you are interested in pursuing a career in the field of cardiovascular technology, an associate degree in cardiovascular technology is an excellent choice. These programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. During your time in school, you will receive 94 hours of credit and a comprehensive education in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and physics. You will also have the opportunity to complete clinical courses at facilities such as INOVA-Fairfax Hospital. In addition, the program includes an in-depth cardiac catheterization laboratory.
Accreditation
An associate degree in cardiovascular technology will prepare you to work in the field of cardiovascular care. It requires a combination of general classes and specialized courses. Courses will cover human anatomy, chemistry, mathematics, and medical terminology. Cardiovascular technology programs often supplement their general coursework with clinical experience. Students may also shadow experienced technicians in hospitals.
Cardiovascular technology training programs are generally accredited by the CAAHEP. This accreditation ensures that educational standards are met and degrees have credibility with employers. Though licensure is not a requirement for employment, most employers do prefer to hire those with certification. There are two main certification options: the registered cardiovascular invasive specialist (RCIS) certification and the certified rhythm analysis technician (CRRT).
Programs offered
Aspiring cardiovascular technologists have a number of options for pursuing their career. Among these is completing a certification program at a hospital. This program can give you the opportunity to earn a well-paying job on a hospital team. Other students choose to earn a bachelor’s degree before pursuing a career in the field. In either case, the associate degree in cardiovascular technology (AS) is an ideal entry-level degree.
Cardiovascular technology is a highly specialized role in healthcare. The School of Health Sciences requires that students complete a rigorous application process. Applicants must first meet with an advisor and attend an orientation for the program. Once accepted, applicants will be notified through email and correspondences from the School of Health Sciences.
Requirements for certification
Cardiovascular technology is a career that involves the use of a catheter and other devices to diagnose heart disease. To become a cardiovascular technician, you must first complete a program containing coursework in the field of cardiovascular technology. The program typically includes hands-on training and clinical hours.
After completing the program, you can take the Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) exam. You must have at least a high school diploma, or a GED certificate. While there are some employers who prefer high school graduates, almost all employers require a postsecondary degree.
Depending on your preferred path, you may decide to take the CCI or ARDMS certification exam. Both exams are multiple-choice and are taken on a computer. When you check in for the exam, you will need to present two forms of identification. You will also need to submit typed documentation. You will also need to complete the application form online or by mail.
Career opportunities
If you’re interested in improving the quality of life of patients and staff, you may want to consider a career in cardiovascular technology. Cardiovascular technology is a field where you work with doctors to save lives. As a cardiovascular technologist, you’ll assist doctors and surgeons during medical procedures by collecting life- saving data. This field requires a high level of technical expertise and compassion for others. You’ll also need to be comfortable using computer technology and multi- tasking.
An associate degree in cardiovascular technology is essential for employment as a cardiovascular technologist. Several community colleges, allied health training facilities, and vocational schools offer this program. Typically, these programs last one year and include core coursework and an acute course in echocardiology. In addition, CAAHEP-accredited programs prepare graduates for certification exams.
