What to expect from a career in Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular specialists are in demand – they play an important role in many medical treatments, tests and operations. Whether you’re looking to expand your current medical knowledge or are just getting started in your education, Ontario college cardiovascular programs prepare you for work in a variety of health care settings, by giving you the knowledge and practical experience necessary to succeed in this fast-paced field.
If you’re interested in cardiology or would like to specialize and expand your medical experience, here’s what you need to know.
Cardiovascular Courses
Cardiovascular programs at Ontario colleges are offered as diploma programs and graduate certificates. Programs include intense courses that will prepare students for a career in one of following specialized areas:
- Technology. Courses in these programs teach students basic cardiovascular science, operation of specialized cardiovascular equipment, patient care, diagnostic techniques and rehabilitation processes.
- Perfusion. Cardiovascular perfusion specialists are needed during open-heart surgery when conducting cardiopulmonary bypasses. Courses will provide students with a thorough knowledge of the cardiovascular system, operation of relevant cardio machines and pharmacology.
- Sonography.Courses teach students how to use sonography machines (ultrasounds) and how to identify heart diseases, defects and other cardiovascular-related conditions.
Some cardiovascular programs offer work placements that allow students to use their knowledge in a real work environment, under the supervision of trained professionals.
General Cardiovascular Program Requirements
Ontario college cardiovascular program requirements vary widely. Requirements could include an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with specific grade 12 English, math and science courses. Graduate programs may require a previous bachelor’s degree, registration as a health professional in your area of specialization and / or specific work experience hours.
Other requirements may include First Aid and CPR certification, or up-to-date immunizations. Be sure to check program requirements carefully before applying.
Cardiovascular Jobs and Salaries
Cardiovascular programs can lead to a career in medical and emergency settings, including hospitals, cardiology clinics, teaching hospitals, ambulatory services and other health care related organizations. Graduates could find positions as cardiovascular perfusionists, cardiology technologists, sonographers and electrophysiology technologists, and more.
Starting salaries for health care professionals in cardiovascular technology are in the mid- to high-$30,000 range. For perfusionists and sonographers, salaries could start around $45,000 or more, depending on level of education and experience.
Ontario Colleges Offering Cardiovascular Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of cardiovascular programs at Ontario colleges.
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