EKG rhythms provide important data for the diagnosis of heart conditions. By administering EKGs, testing the electrical activity of the heart through small electrode patches attached to the body, you will be making a life-changing difference by helping people of all ages prevent and treat heart disease. These tests can be performed during physical exams, when cardiovascular problems are suspected, or in preparation for surgery. The need for qualified EKG technicians continues to rise as the aging population in America grows (and with it, the prevalence of heart-related conditions). This course consists of 108-hours of accelerated classroom training with emphasis on skills mastery through hands-on practice and supervision. (Total 108 hours)

Clinical: Explore the fundamentals of the diverse roles and practices of EKG in an institutional  healthcare setting. The course includes 48 hours of in-depth hands-on training that will introduce the students to the function and proper use of the EKG machine.12-lead placement and interpretation

Date: Mid-June

Student Loan: Sallie Mae loan available. We are listed under Sallie Mae as CTCD-Continuing Education and school code 00400398 if it's asked

Financial assistance: Students with a need for financial assistance may contact Sallie Mae for a student loan. There is also a parent-initiated loan option available with Sallie Mae. We are listed as CTCD-Continuing Education on the Sallie Mae site, school code 00400398. Students who qualify may use MyCAA benefits. Contact MyCAA to see if you qualify.

Cost: $759

Starting pay: $10.75-$38.30 per hour. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of EKG Technicians is expected to increase more than 14 percent through the year 2026. Compensation varies based on market demand and experience level.

Certification: Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive a certificate of completion. Additionally, students will qualify to take the optional EKG Technician (CET) examination offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The exam is proctored on campus periodically throughout the year. Call 254-526-1586 for exam schedule.

Schedule: Classes are held at the CTC central campus in Killeen and are taught at an accelerated pace. Schedules may vary when taught in the college service area.

Program Requirements:

• Students must be at least 18 years old at enrollment.
• Competency in basic computer operations, internet access, printing capabilities, and an email address are required.
• Application packets must include various documents, such as a high school diploma, CPR certification, state criminal background check, physical examination, proof of immunizations, and a drug screen.

Requirements for Optional Clinical

• Negative state criminal background check: https://publicsite.dps.texas.gov/DpsWebsite/CriminalHistory/
• A completed physical examination using the CTC Continuing Education form.
• Proof of current immunizations including tetanus/diphtheria (every 10 years), polio, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B series, PPD (must be completed within the 90-day period immediately prior or the program start date), varicella (a written statement from a physician, the student’s parent or guardian or school nurse supporting a history of varicella is acceptable) and influenza.
• 11-panel drug screen must be completed within 7 days of clinical start date.

To view a comprehensive description of Continuing Education's Pharmacy Technician Program, see our Program Summary. For additional information or to register for the program, contact us at 254-526-1586.

FAQs about EKG Technicians

WHAT IS AN EKG TECHNICIAN WORK ENVIRONMENT LIKE?

Most diagnostic medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including vascular technologists, work full time. Most diagnostic imaging workers are employed in hospitals, while most of the rest worked in physicians’ offices or medical and diagnostic laboratories.

WHAT IS AN EKG TECHNICIAN  WORK SCHEDULE LIKE?

Most diagnostic imaging workers work full time. Some may work evenings, weekends, or overnight because they work in facilities that are always open.

WHAT TYPES OF TASKS DOES AN EKG TECHNICIAN DO?

Cardiac sonographers (echocardiographers) specialize in imaging a patient’s heart. They use ultrasound equipment to examine the heart’s chambers, valves, and vessels. The images obtained are known as echocardiograms. An echocardiogram may be performed either while the patient is resting or after the patient has been physically active. Cardiac sonographers also may take echocardiograms of fetal hearts so that physicians can diagnose cardiac conditions during pregnancy. Cardiac sonographers work closely with physicians or surgeons before, during, and after procedures.

EKG PHYSICAL EXAM FORM

EKG CHECKLIST

EKG CODE OF CONDUCT

EKG SUMMARY

BACKGROUND CHECK

REGISTRATION FORM

Access our Library Resources for EKG Technician students!