Certified EKG Technician
EKG Technicians are responsible for conducting various tests on a patient’s heart. They primarily perform electrocardiograms (EKGs) by attaching wires to a patient’s arms, chest, and legs, and monitor the readings and results.
As an EKG Technician, you should expect to:
· Have a strong attention to detail.
· Have exceptional communication and caregiving skills.
· Have some basic technology skills.
Course Description: Certified EKG Technician
Our program combines classroom instruction with actual practical training in our onsite laboratory, where you will learn how to perform successful 12 Lead EKS on real patients in multiple settings. The Certified EKG Technician Program spans 11 weeks (4 weeks of GMS, 1 week break, and 6 weeks of core EKG training). The course is designed to prepare graduates for work in a clinical setting where EKGs are performed. Topics that students will learn include:
General Medical Studies
- Introduction to the Health Profession
- Infection Control, Body Substance Isolation, and Biohazard Disposal
- Medical-Legal and Ethical Considerations in Health Care
- Introduction to Medical Terminology
- Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology
- Vital Signs
- CPR, First Aid
Core Curriculum
- Understanding cardiac anatomy, physiology, and electrophysiology
- Electrocardiography and proper use of EKG machines (hospital and out-of-hospital models)
- Dysrhythmia Recognition
- Acquiring and interpreting EKGs to include the 12 basic rhythms, tachydysrhythmias including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and supraventricular tachycardia; bradydysrhythmias including heart blocks and external pacemakers
- High school diploma or GED
- Must complete General Medical Studies before progressing into core portion.
Students must obtain school uniform and uniforms only are allowed to be worn during all phases of course training. We have an arrangement with a local uniform store that can assist students picking out the correct uniform and will have it embroidered. A basic scrub suit is acceptable but most students opt for the Gray's Anatomy brand. Approximate cost $60-$75 depending on brand. Because most programs meet 3 times a week, it is recommended to get 3 uniforms,. It is also recommended that students consider a school hoodie (approximate cost $40) and a baseball cap (if desired, approximate cost $30). Hoodies and caps can be added to student accounts for students who are financing their education with payment plans.
- Students will also need a wristwatch for vital signs, a pen, and notepad.
- There is no textbook for this course - all work is online or given in person
The Certified EKG Technician Program at 911Programs prepares students for certification exam by the National HealthCareer Association (NHA). The Certified EKG Technician profession is not licensed in the State of Rhode Island and graduates may apply for jobs with our completion certificate alone, however we recommend taking the NHA exam to increase employer confidence. 911Programs is an authorized testing site for the NHA and students may take their national certifications here.
General Medical Studies Portion (successful completion is pre-requisite)
Week 1
- Monday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Thursday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Saturday 9:00am - 4:00pm (both day and night programs) [1 hour break for lunch at noon]
Week 2
- Monday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Thursday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
Week 3
- Monday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Thursday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Saturday 9:00am until finished (CPR day) (both day and night programs)
Week 4
- Monday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Thursday: 9:30am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
Week 5
- No classes this week - used for makeups
Weeks to complete: Approximately 4. Total instructional hours: Approximately 36
Core EKG Technician Portion
- Monday: 9am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Wednesday: 9am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Thursday: 9am-12pm (day program); 6-9pm (night program)
- Total instructional hours: Approximately 54 (excluding clinical)
Weeks to complete: Approximately 6
Total weeks to complete: Approximately 11. Total instructional hours: Approximately: 89.
Important Information:
- This is a full EKG Technician Program (not a course on "how to do an ECG") which allows graduates to sit for the National HealthCareer Association (NHA) Certified EKG Technician Examination . The NHA National Exam is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCAA), a division of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE).
- We have been an NHA testing site since 2012 so you can take your national exam at our school. (see certificate below)
- Since students complete the clinical requirements for EKG during the school session, there is no need for an outside clinical placement for the EKG portion. Students can apply for a job immediately as an EKG Tech
Program Costs
The 2023 tuition is $3640
- If you pay in full before the first class, you will get a 20% early payment discount ($728 off) making the tuition $2912 !
Application Fee
- If you apply for the course the $50 application fee is non-refundable
- If you are funded by an agency, the application fee does not apply to you
There is a $20 fee for liability insurance which covers students during the program. (If you are funded by an agency, the liability insurance fee is paid by the agency).
Students will need at least one uniform (approximate cost is $60-75 but students may choose to upgrade to a fancier one or get multiple ones).
Students will need the course textbook - average cost is $120 (but students may find a used book online for less). We provide the workbook as part of the tuition. Students may sell the book to the school at the end of the course.
Items included with course tuition
- Access to our Online Classroom Manager and Google Classroom
- Lanyard and ID Badge
- Job placement assistance
As of July 1, 2024 Lab fees and supplies are not included with tuition.
- Lab fees for this program are $240
- Supplies for this program are $200
- SUMMER 2024 SPECIAL: if course is paid in full before course starts, lab fees and supplies will be included
- Economically impacted students: Non-funded students whose income falls below the federal poverty line will have their lab fees and supplies included in the program. Simply notify the office that your income falls below this line and your account will be credited. No documentation of your financial status will be required.
Optional: Technology Package (Get videos / narrated presentations of each lesson to watch at your leisure.) If you purchase the Technology Package, you may use it to make up missed lectures at no additional charge. (Normal tutoring charge to make up a lecture is $100). Tech Package: $910
Payment Plan Options
General Parameters
- The minimum downpayment for 2024 is $550
- The lowest monthly payment is $99 (depending on downpayment)
- The longest term is 24 months (2 years)
- At least half the tuition must be paid to graduate and get a certificate
- The lower your downpayment and/or monthly payment, the longer the term - however the term cannot exceed 24 months so either the downpayment or monthly payment has to be higher to meet the above requirements
- There is a finance fee on the amount you are financing so the larger the downpayment, the lower the finance fee
- There is interest on the unpaid balance so the sooner you pay off your loan, the less interest you will pay - just like any loan
- The more you put down and the quicker you pay, the less money you will spend in the long run
- Most popular, least expensive option is to pay in full before 1st class and receive a 20% discount off tuition
Example of payment plan using the minimum downpayment ($550): 24 monthly payments of $165.65
What students are saying about
911Programs
"Tons of thanks for the time and energy you have put into teaching us the tricks of the trade."
- Nell
"You have such enthusiasm for your teaching, it is truly inspiring;) Thank you! Taking your basic course inspired me to go BACK to college! I had done so well with your tutelage I followed a dream of mine that was long put to rest. I have been attending New England Tech for a year and 1/2, enrolled in the Surgical Technology program!! I have been working at my "clinical" rotation in the operating room, for 15 weeks! I truly am living a dream I have had since I was 8 years old! I will complete the program with state certification and an Associate's Degree as a Surgical Technologist in September this year!! So I thank you for your dedication and enthusiasm and inspiration!!"
- Liana King
"Dear Bill. Thank you for all your efforts on our behalf and for the personal sacrifices you made to see this journey to fruition. We face the future with solid reinforcement."
- The Block Island Volunteer Rescue Squad
"Thanks so much for all the help. You all are such great teachers!
sincere thanks."
- Susan Rich
"Bill Howe is a terrific teacher who brings real world experience to the classroom and delivers it with authority. If you want the best in EMS learning, then one of Bill’s classes is the right choice. Bill mixes his own first-hand experience with a number of guest lecturers to present a thorough and compelling EMS course. You’ll learn everything you need to know, and why you need to know it at 911Programs."
- Mark Collins
"Thank you soooo much for everything and may God bless your family and your career as well."
- Rodlynne Louis
"Thanks for all your extra effort and making the class fun. You are great."
- Amy
"Dear Bill. Thank you for all your efforts on our behalf and for the personal sacrifices you made to see this journey to fruition. We face the future with solid reinforcement."
- The Block Island Volunteer Rescue Squad
"Bill, quite and experience I’ll never forget. Thank you for your knowledge and patience. "
- Jessica
Upcoming Courses
Certified EKG Technician
Winter 2025 Day
- Course Code: CET41D
- Tuition: $3640.00
Funding available to qualified applicants. Contact us for details. - Location: Warwick, RI
- Start Date: 01/06/2025
- End Date: 03/30/2025
- Number of Weeks: 12
- Meeting Times: See Class Schedule above for meeting times.
Certified EKG Technician
Winter 2025 Night
- Course Code: CET41N
- Tuition: $3640.00
Funding available to qualified applicants. Contact us for details. - Location: Warwick, RI
- Start Date: 01/06/2025
- End Date: 03/30/2025
- Number of Weeks: 12
- Meeting Times: See Class Schedule above for meeting times.
Certified EKG Technician
Spring 2025 Day
- Course Code: CET42D
- Tuition: $3640.00
Funding available to qualified applicants. Contact us for details. - Location: Warwick, RI
- Start Date: 03/31/2025
- End Date: 06/22/2025
- Number of Weeks: 12
- Meeting Times: See Class Schedule above for meeting times.
Certified EKG Technician
Spring 2025 Night
- Course Code: CET42N
- Tuition: $3640.00
Funding available to qualified applicants. Contact us for details. - Location: Warwick, RI
- Start Date: 03/31/2025
- End Date: 06/22/2025
- Number of Weeks: 12
- Meeting Times: See Class Schedule above for meeting times.
For more info, call or text 1-401-773-7716 today!
1. The Program Director Retired EMS Chief William Howe has over 35 years experience in health care as an EMT/Paramedic and Phlebotomist and over 30 years in health care education. He has started and operated several training academies including New England Academy of Prehospital Medicine (a 501 c3 non-profit school), New England Medical Resources, and […]
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We partner with trusted industry resources to serve you best. We're an Authorized American Heart Association Training Site, a National HealthCareer Association Official Testing Site, a National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Official Testing Site, and a Pearson Vue Testing Site.