Cardiovascular Technology

Job Description

Cardiovascular technologists, also referred to as cardiovascular technicians, assist physicians with diagnosis and heart treatment through both invasive and noninvasive methods. There are specialty occupations within the field for invasive and noninvasive methods, such as the vascular sonographer. Cardiovascular technology specialists particular training and education determines their job duties, but all cardiovascular technicians are ultimately responsible for aiding a physician with the health and well-being of the heart.

Cardiovascular Technologist Salary

In 2008, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median wage of approximately $47,000 for cardiovascular technologists. The low was approximately $28,000 and the high was $75,000 or more.

Education & Training

The most common method of pursuing a career in cardiovascular technology is to complete a 2-year associate degree program from an accredited cardiovascular technologist school. Quite a few training programs are available for the interested student. In fact, in 2009 The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Professionals (CAAHEP) stated that 34 programs around the country had received accreditation. For information from top programs near you, please fill out our “Find Your School” widget at the top-left of this page.

Qualifications

Licensure is voluntary, but recommended for the purposes of career advancement. Cardiovascular technologists may pursue credentials through one of two groups: the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI); or the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). For additional information, please visit our page on diagnostic medical sonography.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 24 percent growth for cardiovascular technicians in the 2008-2018 decade. Demand is primarily attributed to the increasing prevalence of heart disease in the aging baby boomer generation. This growth is likely to open up career advancement opportunities for those in the industry, making now a great time to enroll in cardiovascular technician training programs.

Advancement

Cardiovascular technicians may advance to more specialized technologist positions following on the job experience or additional education from accredited cardiovascular technology schools. In addition, credentials for specific specialties may bolster the cardiovascular technician or technologist’s career, allowing them access to managerial positions.

Learn More

To learn more about cardiovascular technician schools available in your area, please enter your information into our school finder widget. Alternatively, consider viewing some similar professions, like our page for radiation therapy.