An electrocardiography (EKG) technician is a healthcare professional who applies, monitors, and measures electrocardiography recordings. They are important members of a healthcare team as they work closely with doctors and nurses to help identify patient’s heart cardiovascular issues.
Towson University Continuing and Professional Studies’ Certified EKG Technician Course will prepare you with the knowledge and skills required to earn a nationally recognized EKG technician certification. The course covers key areas such as fundamentals of EKG analysis, safety and patient care, and more.
Learn the requirements, job responsibilities, job outlook, and more as you consider starting a rewarding as a certified EKG technician.
EKG technician certification exam requirements
In order to sit for the Certified EKG Technician certification exam, you must have:
- A high school diploma or GED equivalency
- Completion of an EKG technician training or education program within the last five (5) years, or at least one (1) year of supervised work experience with EKGs within the past three (3) years
- Evidence that you have performed a minimum of 10 EKGs on live people
Job responsibilities of EKG technicians
- EKG technicians administer various cardiovascular tests.
- Read, monitor, and report EKG tests precisely and accurately.
- Communicate with physicians, PAs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide essential point-in-time information.
- Support in accurate and timely diagnosis, and treatment plans of patients in the community and acute care settings.
- Interpret and calculate data related to patients.
EKG technician job outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including EKG technicians, is on an upward trajectory. EKG technician jobs are expected to increase 24% from 2024 through 2029—six times the national average job growth.
Importance of certification as an EKG Technician
Approximately 87% of hospitals, primary care offices, and clinics hiring EKG technicians require certification. Becoming certified through the Towson University Certified EKG Technician Course shows that you have obtained the proper training and skillset needed to become a successful EKG technician.
Certified EKG technician salary
According to the National Health Career Association, the median annual salary for EKG technicians is $56,850, with top earners pulling in over $93,000 per year. Maryland is ranked in the top five states for EKG technician salaries with an average salary of $69,000.
About the Towson University Certified EKG Technician Course
Towson University’s Certified EKG Technician Course teaches you the necessary skills and foundational components of becoming an EKG Technician and prepares you for a career in a professional medical or healthcare facility. The 40-hour course includes five modules that incorporates an orientation, in-person clinicals, self-paced learning, a study session, and weekly office hours.
Upon completion, you will be prepared to sit for the National Healthcareer Association Certified EKG Technician certification exam (NHA CET exam).
