Education and training requirements for Cardiovascular technologists and techniciansAlthough a few cardiovascular technologists, vascular technologists, and cardiac sonographers are currently trained on the job, most receive training in 2- to 4-year programs. Cardiovascular technologists, vascular technologists, and cardiac sonographers normally complete a 2-year junior or community college program. The first year is dedicated to core courses and is followed by a year of specialized instruction in either invasive, noninvasive cardiovascular, or noninvasive vascular technology. Those who are qualified in an allied health profession need to complete only the year of specialized instruction. Graduates from the 29 programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology are eligible to obtain professional certification in cardiac catheterization, echocardiography, vascular ultrasound, and cardiographic techniques from Cardiovascular Credentialing International. Cardiac sonographers and vascular technologists also may obtain certification from the American Registry of diagnostic medical sonographers. For basic EKGs, Holter monitoring, and stress testing, 1-year certification programs exist, but most EKG technicians are still trained on the job by an EKG supervisor or a cardiologist. On-the-job training usually lasts about 8 to 16 weeks. Most employers prefer to train people already in the healthcare field—nursing aides, for example. Some EKG technicians are students enrolled in 2-year programs to become technologists, working part time to gain experience and make contact with employers. Cardiovascular technologists and technicians must be reliable, have mechanical aptitude, and be able to follow detailed instructions. A pleasant, relaxed manner for putting patients at ease is an asset. More information on Cardiovascular technologists and technicians from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Cardiovascular technologists and technicians occupation Number of Cardiovascular technologists and technicians in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Cardiovascular technologists and technicians Working conditions for Cardiovascular technologists and technicians Significant points for Cardiovascular technologists and technicians Training requirements for Cardiovascular technologists and technicians Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |