Cardiovascular Technology
Associate in Applied Science Degree — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program code: 10-521-1

This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

Overview — Applicants to this program must specify either the invasive CVT (Cardiac Cath Lab) or noninvasive CVT (Echocardiography) subspecialty. In this program, you will be educated in the theoretical concepts and clinical applications of procedures used to diagnose and relieve the symptoms of various cardiac pathologies. The program begins with one year of general CVT coursework, after which, each subspecialty will focus on its unique curriculum. Laboratory instruction occurs on campus as well as in laboratories of area hospitals. Clinical externships will include assignments in various local hospitals under the direction of an experienced CVT. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs accredited the invasive portion and echocardiography portion of this program in cooperation with the Joint Review Committee (JRC-CVT). The program has an alternative part-time enrollment plan.

Career Outlook — The continuing demand for CVT’s indicates exceptional employment possibilities. The projected growth is attributed to an increase in cardiovascular disease and the aging population. Opportunities include hospital departments and with experience, physicians’ offices and sales. For more information regarding the Cath Lab, please visit www.cathlabdigest.com or www.sicp.com. For more information regarding Echocardiography, please visit www.asecho.org.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Prospective employers will expect you to:

• Exhibit patient care skills
• Explain diagnostic procedures and provide support to patients
• Work independently
• Understand basic anatomy, physiology and operative procedures
• Apply aseptic techniques in preparing and handling instruments
• Work as a member of a health care team

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
• One year of high school-level or one semester of college-level of the following: algebra, biology, and chemistry or physics.
• Good health as evidenced by a medical examination
• Documentation of proper immunizations
• Documentation that the Essential Job Functions have been reviewed. This is in keeping with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Documentation of compliance with Wisconsin’s Caregiver Law.
• A Health Care Provider Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certificate is a prerequisite for entry into the summer clinical course (CVTECH-120 or CVTECH-121).

Future Opportunities — Successful completion fulfills the necessary prerequisites to take the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist exam or the Registered Cardiac Sonographer or the Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer exam.

This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.

Possible Careers:

Cath Lab Technologist
Echocardiographer
EKG Technician
Cardiographic Technician

Related Programs:

Respiratory Therapist

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2008-2009.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

(M) = Summer
‡ Prerequisite Required.

NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with GENERAL STUDIES courses, if course prerequisites have been met.

For course descriptions, class times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.