by Updated on | $ Four-Year College - $35,000 to $100,000 | $ $ Two-Year College - $1,000 to $10,000 | $ $ $ Trade School - $500 to $5,000 |
Are you considering becoming an EKG technician?
Before leaping, you should understand the costs that are related to joining this career field, including exam fees and tuition for various programs.
Once you have completed school, you can expect your duties as an EKG tech to look something like this:
- Prepare patients by attaching wires to various body parts
- Perform EKGs
- Analyze the results and check the quality of the data
- Keep equipment maintained
Programs to become an EKG technician can range anywhere from $700 to $10,000 depending on the type of school you choose.
How Much Does it Cost to Complete EKG Technician Trade/Vocational School?
The typical range of trade or vocational school for EKG technician programs is between $1,000 and $5,000.
However, programs can also be as low as $500.
It depends on the length of the program and the location.
Also, there are other factors which influence the price you pay.
Is the course being offered online or in a classroom setting?
These are some other things to think about.
Community College
Another option you have when seeking the proper training to become an EKG technician is a community college.
Community colleges can range in price from $1,000 to $10,000 for their programs.
For example, Maryland Community College offers an EKG tech program that is 104 hours.
Some courses that students will take include the cardiovascular system, the digestive system, intro to medical terminology, and more.
Students in community college programs for EKG technicians will learn the theoretical knowledge of an EKG technician and will be more than prepared to take the CET certification exam.
Community college programs take about two years to complete.
Community colleges offer degrees in cardiovascular technology and even offer EKG tech certificates.
Students who are interested in these programs must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED.
Trade School vs. College by Numbers
| National Average | Four-Year College | Two-Year College | Trade School |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Cost | $35,000 to $100,000 | $1,000 to $10,000 | $500 to $5,000 |
| Time to Complete | 4 years | 2 years | 3 to 6 months |
| Other Expenses | Books / Supplies / Equipment | Books / Supplies / Equipment | Books |
| Award | Bachelor’s degree | Associate’s degree | Certificate |
How Much Does an EKG Technician License Cost?
In most states, an EKG technician license is required.
To receive your license, you will need to take the NHA CET exam.
This exam measures your knowledge and skills to ensure you are prepared to work as an EKG technician.
The exam fee can range from $119 to $200.
For instance, the NCET exam is $119, while the CET exam is $129.
Some CET exams, depending on your location, can cost up to $200, and they include study materials, three exam attempts, and unlimited practice exams.
What Are the Additional Costs After Becoming an EKG Technician?
After becoming a certified, licensed EKG technician, there may be additional costs associated with maintaining your career.
For instance, you may need to pay continuing education fees and fees for specialized training.
EKG technicians will also need to pay for background check fees, immunization costs, and re-certification fees.
Furthermore, EKG technicians use the following supplies while doing their work:
- Scissors
- Cardiac pacemaker generators
- Electrodes
- Calipers
- Graph recording paper
- Disinfectants
- Calculator
These supplies are typically provided to technicians by their employer.
EKG technicians will need a reliable vehicle to get to and from work, in addition to gas and car insurance.
There aren’t any additional tools that you will need to purchase.
Is Becoming an EKG Technician Worth the Investment?
Overall, costs will vary on your path to becoming an EKG technician.
Costs will be influenced by your location and the school you choose.
Licensing and exam costs will also differ, as well as any additional costs you need after you begin your career.
The job and salary outlook for EKG technicians are both strong with positive growth.
There will also be opportunities for advancement.
According to the BLS, they expect a 5% increase in job openings for EKG technicians between 2019 and 2029.
In the United States, the average salary for EKG technicians can range between $24.22 per hour and $52,243 per year.
EKG technicians are among the highest-paid professionals in their industry.
If you can get through the costs associated with school and exam fees, becoming an EKG technician is well worth the time and effort you put into it.
Key Takeaways
- EKG technicians perform EKGs and analyze results.
- Vocational and trade school costs for EKG tech programs vary between $1,000 and $5,000.
- Programs can be completed online or in a classroom setting in as little as 3 to 6 months.
- Community college is also an option for EKG training programs.
- Community college programs can range from $1,000 to $10,000.
- EKG techs can earn a two-year degree in cardiovascular technology.
- Students can further their education and earn a bachelor’s degree in health sciences to become an EKG technician as well.
- Bachelor’s degree program costs can vary between $35,000 to $100,000 a year.
- Licensing exam costs can range from $119 to $200.