Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
For basic EKGs, Holter monitoring, and stress testing, one-year certificate programs exist, although most EKG technicians are still trained on the job by an EKG supervisor or a cardiologist. On-the-job training usually lasts about 8 to 16 weeks. Applicants must be high school graduates. Cardiology technologists need to complete a two-year junior or community college program, dedicated to core courses followed by specialized instruction in either invasive or noninvasive peripheral cardiology. Those who are qualified in a related allied health profession only need to complete the year of specialized instruction.

Job Outlook:
Overall employment in this field is expected to grow more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2005, but technicians and technologists will experience different patterns of employment change. Overall, there will be an estimated 41,000 workers in the field by 2005. Employment of cardiology technologists is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations. Growth will occur as the population ages, because older people have a higher incidence of heart problems. Employment of EKG technicians is expected to decline. Although the number of cardiac tests and procedures performed is anticipated to grow, demand for EKG technicians is not likely to keep pace because many hospitals are expected to train registered nurses and others to perform basic EKG procedures.

Sources of Additional Information:

Local hospitals can supply information about employment opportunities.

For general information about a career in EKG and cardiovascular technology contact: