According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), EKG technician jobs are projected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033, offering a stable and promising career path. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to become an EKG technician.
Key Points
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An EKG Technician (Electrocardiogram Technician) is a trained healthcare professional specializing in heart diagnostics. They conduct electrocardiograms (EKGs or ECGs) to monitor electrical impulses in the heart, helping physicians detect and treat cardiovascular conditions.
EKG Technicians work in various healthcare settings, offering diverse career opportunities:
To become an EKG Technician, you need:
To become an EKG Technician, follow these five essential steps:
A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement to begin your journey as an EKG Technician. Most accredited programs require applicants to have completed high school-level coursework in biology, anatomy, or healthcare-related subjects. Having a strong foundation in these areas will help you better understand heart rhythms, cardiac anatomy, and medical terminology during your training. Some high schools even offer introductory healthcare courses or dual-enrollment programs that can give you a head start.
EKG programs can be delivered in person, online, or through a hybrid format. Dreambound works with numerous accredited institutions that offer online EKG Technician programs, including:
Hands-on training is crucial for mastering EKG procedures. Many certification programs include clinical externships, where students work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic labs under the supervision of licensed professionals. During this phase, you’ll gain experience in preparing patients for EKGs, placing electrodes correctly, and interpreting basic heart rhythms. Some states may require a minimum number of clinical hours before allowing you to take the certification exam. If your program doesn’t include an externship, consider volunteering or applying for an entry-level healthcare assistant role to gain practical experience.
Certification: Certified EKG Technician Requirements: Completion of a training program or six months of work experience, plus passing the ASPT exam.
Certification: Certified EKG Technician Requirements: Similar to other certifying bodies, requiring a training program or supervised experience, along with passing an exam.
Once certified, you can start applying for EKG Technician positions in a variety of healthcare settings. These include hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, cardiac centers, and home healthcare services. Some technicians also find jobs in diagnostic imaging centers or mobile EKG units that assist in stress tests and Holter monitoring.
To find job opportunities, use resources like My Next Move, which provides real-time job listings based on your location and qualifications. Networking with healthcare professionals, attending career fairs, or joining online job boards can also help you connect with potential employers.
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Once certified, EKG Technicians can specialize or advance in their careers:
Here are 3 top vocations similar to EKG technician, all working in the field of diagnosing and treating patients:
Training programs typically last 2 weeks to 8 months.
Many work standard 40-hour weeks, but shifts can vary depending on the employer.
EKG Technicians earn a median annual salary of $66,170 (May 2023) with an expected 4% growth rate over the next decade, much faster than average
Yes, with additional education and certifications, they can advance into specialized or broader cardiology roles such as getting a Cardiovascular Technician (CVT) degree to expand their skills and qualify for higher-paying positions.
Common challenges include managing anxious patients, staying updated with technological advancements, and maintaining precise attention to detail. To thrive as an EKG Technician, you'll need to possess the following qualities and skills:
There are several advanced EKG technician certifications available that can enhance your skills and marketability. Some popular options include:
Becoming an EKG Technician offers a fulfilling career path in healthcare. By researching EKG Technician programs, developing the necessary skills, and obtaining relevant certifications, you can launch your rewarding journey in this growing field.
Dreambound has written dozens of in-depth guides on how to get started in this field, with information specific to your city. If you're located somewhere else or thinking about moving, check out some other guides we've written:
Becoming an EKG Technician is a fast, rewarding way to enter the healthcare industry. With growing demand, short training programs, and strong salary prospects, it’s an excellent career choice for those interested in cardiac care.
Ready to start your journey? Explore EKG Technician programs on Dreambound and take the first step toward a fulfilling healthcare career today!
Considering a different path? Check out these guides:
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.