Certificate Program

The ECG technician performs diagnostic tests related to the heart, recording the heart’s electrical impulses onto a paper strip. The pattern of the signals can tell the physician whether the heart is normal, experiencing electrical problems, under strain or damaged. The ECG technician will administer and document various types of ECG monitoring, and will provide appropriate care of the equipment. The ECG technician works in physicians’ offi ces, clinics, hospitals and diagnostic centers. Other office skills
will aid employment. Salary averages in Michigan are over $24,000.

Both classes (HLTSC 136 and HLTSC 137) will be offered in the summer session, and must be completed for the certifi cate. To enter the clinical portion, students must be at least 18 years old and able to document good physical and mental health. A physical examination and immunizations are required for students, at their expense, to verify capabilities and general health status. The exam must be completed before clinical placement in HLTSC 137. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation certifi cation from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association and criminal background/drug screen checks may also be required by some clinical agencies at the student’s expense. In addition to college rules, ECG technician students are required to adhere to policies and procedures outlined in the ECG Technician Student Handbook.

HLTSC 136 (ECG Basics) uses classroom instruction, on-line computer instruction and skills laboratory
experience.

HLTSC 137 (ECG II) is a clinical externship in hospitals and clinics. Some clinical work may be in
the evening. Students are required to work up to 40 hours per week for the externship period to complete this course of study.

Students who wish to review or enhance ECG skills may elect to take HLTSC 136 (ECG Basics) and not
HLTSC 137 (ECGII), but a certifi cate will not be awarded.