How Much Does it Cost to Become an EKG Technician?

Recent changes in the healthcare industry, coupled with an increase in our aging population, have resulted in a rising demand for trained medical professionals.

The need for healthcare workers isn’t limited to physicians and nurses.

It extends to every aspect of the industry, including specialized professionals like Electrokardiogramm (EKG) Technicians.

Despite significant recent growth, the need for qualified EKG technicians, also known as ECG technicians, is expected to rise over the next decade.

The projected job growth rate is 8-10% by 2031.

These numbers are significantly higher than the national average for all occupations in the U.S.

How Much Does it Cost to Complete EKG Technician Training?

The cost to complete EKG training varies depending upon several factors, including type of program, educational institution, and location.

Bachelor’s Degree

While you will not be required to earn a bachelor’s degree from a 4-year university, some students choose to take this educational path.

Doing so can elevate your status as a technician and help fast-track your professional career.

If you determine that a bachelor’s degree is the best fit for your career goals, you will first need to complete all required prerequisites.

Once complete, you can begin focusing on your specific major.

Most EKG technicians with a bachelor’s degree major in cardiovascular and vascular technology.

The annual cost to obtain a bachelor’s degree in cardiovascular and vascular technology ranges from $25,500 for in-state tuition to over $107,000 for out-of-state.

A degree from a private university or nonprofit will set you back even more, averaging an annual cost of $55,000-$222,000.

Certification Program

While earning a bachelor’s degree looks great on a resume and can help advance your career, it is not a requirement.

Most aspiring EKG technicians choose to attend a certification program.

This route is not only less expensive, but it also gets you into the field faster, so you can start gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

Most certification programs offer both in-person and online courses, making it the ideal fit for students who work full-time or have a family.

The cost to complete an EKG Technician training program varies from one school to the next.

Factors such as location, school, and program structure impact tuition rates.

Tuition ranges from $475 to $2,400.

When inquiring about costs, be sure to ask if books and laboratory fees are included.

These items can cost an additional $300 to $700.

Additionally, some EKG technician programs may require you to have certain certifications or licenses.

The most common certification for EKG technicians is the Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) credential offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI).

Certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is another popular choice.

To obtain certification, you will need to complete an approved EKG technician program and pass an exam.

The cost of certification exams can range from $150 to $300.

It’s important to research and compare different EKG technician programs to find one that meets your needs in terms of cost, requirements, and accreditation.

Additional Costs After Completion of EKG Technician Training

Once you’ve received the necessary training, it’s time to begin your career as an EKG technician.

Because the healthcare industry and technology are ever-evolving, it’s important that you remain abreast of current news and innovations.

While the specifics vary by state and certification, you will be required to complete a certain number of continuing education hours to maintain your certificate.

Most technicians are required to complete 10 continuing education hours every 2 years.

The average cost for a 3-hour CE course is $39.

Is EKG Technician Training a Good Career Investment?

As cardiovascular technicians for our aging community, EKG techs play a vital role in the health of Americans.

Analysts predict the need for these medical professionals will rise significantly over the next decade.

This growing demand makes now the perfect time to invest in your education and solidify your financial future.

Additional benefits of obtaining EKG technician certification include:

Flexibility

You’ll have the option to work with a variety of employers including hospitals, specialized outpatient facilities, private medical facilities, and more.