Cardiovascular Technologist Programs in New Jersey
When you choose Cardiovascular Diagnostic Technology as a career you will perform diagnostic exams on your patients while working closely with physicians. This technology provides a non-invasive way for physicians to diagnose and treat patients with heart and peripheral vascular disease. As a Cardiovascular Technician you will measure, analyze and create images of the heart and circulatory system.
If this career path interests you, contact the schools listed below for more details.
The New Jersey Department of Labor Workforce Development has projected there will be 2,650 Diagnostic Medical Sonographer positions by 2020, which is a 28.8 percent increase. While New Jersey has considered requiring a license for sonographers, they do not require one at this time. It is important to become ARDMS certified, which proves you have mastered the technical skills and knowledge required to meet national standards.
There are several accredited Cardiac Sonography programs in New Jersey. You can get a credential at several colleges if you already have an associate degree in the field of healthcare. Associate degrees are also offered that include the certificate, and you may want to get your bachelor’s degree in this field. Some programs are also offered online.
Echo Tech/Cardiac Ultrasound Education in New Jersey
You can earn your Applied Science Degree in Health Science which includes Cardiac Sonography as one route to certification as an Echo Tech in New Jersey. An Associate in Applied Science Degree in Diagnostic Cardiovascular Sonography requires 24 months if you are attending full-time.
A high school diploma is required for admission to most schools, but some do accept the GED. Official transcripts are also required for most college courses.
A Cardiac Sonographer Certificate Program can take about 15 months and requires 42 credits to complete. You must already have an associate degree in an allied health education program to enter a certificate program, in most instances.
There are also Bachelor of Science programs available. The required courses typically include:
- Computer Concepts & Applications
- Math and English Skills
- Freshman Seminar
- Clinical Laboratory
- Medical Procedure
- Anatomy & Physiology I,II
- English Composition I, II
- Medical Office Management
- College Math
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- Vascular Techniques
- Laboratory And Theory I, II, III
- Acoustical Physics
- Sonographic Anatomy & Physiology
- Echocardiography Techniques Laboratory & Theory I, II, III
After gradation you may take the ARDMS credential examination. You may want to take some of the offered review exams first. Specialty examinations are available in Adult, Fetal and Pediatric Echocardiography. Employers will likely be looking for this certification on your resume.
Echo Tech Careers in New Jersey
According to ONet OnLine this career had an average annual of income of $66,410 in 2013 in New Jersey.
There are full-time echo tech positions typically available in New Jersey hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices and other health care facilities.
If you need financial assistance, complete the FAFSA application, which is a federal grant based on your income. Some colleges also have special payment plans available to help you cover the costs of tuition. There are also Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans.
New Jersey Stars is a scholarship program for NJ residents who maintain a GPA of 3.5 with a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester. If you rank in the top 15 percent of your class at the 11th or 12th grade level, you are eligible to apply.
Being a Cardiac Sonographer will test your expertise regularly, and this is a rewarding career that allows you to work directly with patients and providers. It certainly requires your commitment, as your patient’s lives may depend on some of your decisions. Getting the proper training and certification will enable you to make these decisions with confidence. Contact the schools on our site that offer echo technician programs to learn more about your options.