Cardiovascular Tech Program Application in 5 Simple Steps

January 8, 2019

 

It’s incredibly difficult to choose your future career path, but after giving it a lot of thought, you’ve decided to become a cardiovascular technologist. Whether you’ve just graduated high school – or are already employed in the medical field – this is a fantastic field that allows you to make a massive difference in the lives of others. 

You’ve probably already started researching the steps it takes to enroll in cardiovascular tech schools, and have probably seen that there can be selective application processes. With our comprehensive guide, however, you’ll discover what needs to be tackled before applying to the school of your choice. 

1. Plan a Campus Visit

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Take it from us: The location and atmosphere of your training course are crucial for a great experience. By observing classrooms and labs – and speaking with professors and students – you’ll be able to determine whether it’s a great fit for you. If you happen to live near a few campuses that offer a cardiovascular tech training program, why not visit some before making a decision? 

Most future techs prefer staying close to home while they study. But with amazing opportunities across the country, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to move somewhere new and exciting. 

Meet with an Admissions Member

Will your training program allows you to work full-time or part-time while you study? Does financial aid cover your education? Before you visit any school, make an appointment with a member of the admissions team. 

This representative should be able to answer all of your questions about admissions requirements, program details, financial aid options, and the process of enrollment. 

Figure out Your Financial Aid Options

It’s surprising how many cardiovascular technology students believe they aren’t eligible for financial assistance, even though FAFSA’s primary concern for assistance is economic need. We highly recommend taking an hour out of your schedule to apply for FAFSA. If you aren’t approved for the full amount, you may be entitled to private loans, scholarships, or even interest-free payment plans via certain training courses. 

You shouldn’t have to incur loads of student debt to start working as a cardiovascular technologist. Schools usually require you to turn in your financial aid details at least one week before applying to a program. 

2. Apply to Your Cardiovascular Tech Training Program

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Once you have a payment plan in place, you can turn in your application. If your school of choice has a rolling admission schedule, you’ll be able to apply as soon as you spot starting dates on their website. 

Many training programs have digitized their enrollment processes, but some require students to physically turn in their complete application form(s). It’s important to make an appointment with your school representative. You may need to pass an in-person interview and/or entrance exam (e.g., Accuplacer, Wonderlic SLE). 

Is It Easy to Get Into a Cardiovascular Tech Program?

Cardiovascular technology programs are extremely popular, and the admissions team may more selective than for other allied healthcare courses. During the admissions process, school representatives will likely want to review your highest level of completed education, previous academic achievement (including exam scores), references, and how well your interview went. 

You may be accepted to your program on the spot, which requires you to sign admission documents. If you don’t hear back right away, don’t worry: Your school should make their decision within a week or two. 

3. Attend Orientation 

Once you’re enrolled in an accredited cardiovascular technology program, you’ll receive an invitation to attend orientation. 

This is an ideal time to learn about your training program’s policies. Take advantage of this opportunity and clear up any questions you might still have. 

4. Start Your Cardiovascular Technology Program 

This is what you’ve been waiting for. You’ll learn how to use sonography equipment to create images of the heart and vascular system, and also help physicians diagnose heart disease and defects (like blockages, hypertension, and arrhythmias). 

Complete Your Internship 

After classroom and lab hours are finished, you’re required to complete a clinical internship to finish your cardiovascular technologist program. All students are placed with an experienced mentor to gain the necessary skills for their future career path. 

5. Pass Your Exam

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Graduates of a cardiovascular tech program are qualified to take the Non-Invasive/ Echocardiography registry examination, offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). 

Successful students will receive their RCS credential and will then be ready to enter the workforce as an in-demand cardiovascular technologist.

Apply to a Cardiovascular Tech Program Today 

In under three years, you’ll be able to make a massive difference in the lives of patients while finding rewarding cardiovascular technologist job opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, and more. 

If you happen to live in the New Jersey area – or are planning a move – contact an AIMS Education admissions rep to kickstart your future career

Cardiovascular Technologist Program