Earn an Associate’s Degree
An associate’s degree in cardiovascular technology combines academic coursework and laboratory training. Students have an opportunity to learn about various cardiac diseases and symptoms, diagnostic procedures and aseptic techniques. Laboratory work takes place at area hospitals or on-campus clinics. Specific courses include EKG analysis, cardiovascular care, cardiovascular hemodynamics, echocardiography, ultrasound principles and cardiovascular agents.
Success Tip:
Choose a specialization. During the second year of the program, you’ll have the option to decide whether you want to specialize in invasive or non-invasive cardiovascular technology. Invasive cardiology involves inserting catheters inside a patient, while non-invasive cardiology involves ultrasound and EKG equipment.
Participate in an Internship
In order to obtain experience in the field, students in a cardiovascular technology program need to complete an internship in a medical setting. This is an opportunity for students to work and learn under an experienced cardiovascular technician and begin interacting with patients. During an internship, students can apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to a real-world setting. As students gain more experience, they’ll be allowed to have more responsibilities during their internship.