Education · 1 of 4

The path

A degree first, then a small, intense master's program with a lot of time in the operating room.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Biology, chemistry, physics and calculus. You need marks for a science degree.

2. 2

   Bachelor of science

   4 years

   Any science major with anatomy, physiology, physics, chemistry and calculus. Michener wants a GPA (grade point average) of at least 3.0. Registered nurses and respiratory therapists with a science degree and a year of critical care can also apply.

3. 3

   Perfusion master's

   2 years

   Three programs in Canada: Michener in Toronto, Université de Montréal, and BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology). Michener's is a 2-year master of science with a Casper test at admission and 32 weeks of clinical placement anywhere in Canada.

4. 4

   Write the CSCP (Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusion) exam

   After graduation

   Held once a year in November at test centres. Pass it to become a CCP (certified clinical perfusionist).

5. 5

   Get hired and keep certified

   Ongoing

   Hospitals hire only certified perfusionists. Recertification requires ongoing clinical activity and education.