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Overview of Master Degree Programs in Cardiology

Majors Overview July 24, 2018

This article talks about master’s degree programs in cardiology and their educational requirements, coursework, job and wage outlook, and continuing education options.

Master’s Programs in Cardiology

After they earn a medical degree, graduates usually receive cardiology training via residency and fellowship programs. Schools offer master’s degree programs dealing with cardiology in cardiovascular perfusion, and the programs are devised to make surgical technologists adept at handling medical equipment during surgeries. Training is available for non-physician students keen on a surgical profession involving cardiology.

“Cardiovascular Perfusionist” is a term used to describe medical workers entrusted with the operation of the integral circulation equipment during surgical and medical procedures. Enrollees in a 2-year master’s program gain familiarity with surgical tools, environments, and procedures through hospital and clinic rotations. Participation and membership in medical organizations, such as the American Society of ExtraCorporeal Technology (AmSECT), may be required at some schools.

Educational Requirements

Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree in any health- or science-related field, along with completing undergraduate coursework in biology, chemistry, physiology, and physics. Professional experience working in the healthcare field may also be preferable along with the Basic Life Support certification offered through the American Heart Association.

Coursework

The technical workings and sciences of cardiovascular perfusion are in the program coursework. Students learn how to handle and use surgical equipment in a proper manner. Through clinical rotations, students are exposed to the process of cardiopulmonary bypass and instructed on a variety of diseases that cardiovascular perfusionists encounter. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:

•Patient monitoring
•Hematology and blood-borne disease
•Adult and pediatric surgical considerations
•Medical chemistry
•Pharmacology
•External pulmonary support

Job and Wage Outlook

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians are expected to see a job growth of 17%, over the 2016-2026 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2016, about 122,300 individuals were employed in these professions. In 2016, these professionals brought in an average annual wage of $65,620.

Continuing Education Options

Program graduates aiming for cardiologist careers may opt for continuing education by earning a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree and participating in postdoctoral residencies. Cardiology fellowship programs are also available to MD graduates at many universities and teaching hospitals; doctors gain clinical practice under the supervisory watch of an experienced cardiologist.

The program coursework involves participation by doctors and fellows in electrophysiology, cardiac catheterization lab activities, noninvasive cardiac evaluations, and electro cardiology, apart from cardiac surgical assistance and observation.

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