Education · 1 of 5

The path

A short, cheap health program with real hospital pay at the end of it.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Biology, anatomy and math. Volunteering at a hospital helps you get into a program.

2. 2

   Get into an accredited program

   Apply in Grade 12

   Look for cardiovascular technology programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Accreditation is what makes you eligible for the credential exams.

3. 3

   Classroom and lab

   1 to 2 years

   Anatomy, heart physiology, radiation safety, equipment and patient care. You pick a track: invasive, echocardiography or heart rhythm.

4. 4

   Clinical rotations

   During the program

   Unpaid hours in a real hospital lab, scanning and assisting under supervision. This is where you actually learn the job.

5. 5

   Credential exam and first job

   After graduation

   Sit the exam for your track, then apply. Many students are hired by the hospital where they did their rotation.