Career roadmap
How to Become a Cardiovascular Technologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a cardiovascular technologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a cardiovascular technologist: (1) take science courses, (2) complete an accredited program, (3) complete clinical training, (4) earn credentials, (5) specialize. Most people need about 2 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a cardiovascular technologist
Take science courses
Biology and math.
Complete an accredited program
Associate degree.
Complete clinical training
Hands-on scanning.
Earn credentials
RDCS, RCIS or RVT.
Specialize
Echo, vascular or invasive.
Education and training requirements
An associate degree in cardiovascular technology or sonography is typical; some earn a bachelor’s degree or train in shorter EKG programs.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2 years |
Certifications and licenses
- RDCS: Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (ARDMS).
- RCIS: Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (CCI).
- RVT: Registered Vascular Technologist.
- CCT: Certified Cardiographic Technician.
Skills to build now
Start with ekg interpretation basics, echocardiography, and vascular ultrasound, and practice calm under pressure and attention to detail. Learning the cardiovascular technologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- EKG Technician: Entry role.
- Cardiovascular Technologist: Advanced testing.
- Lead Technologist: Lead labs.
- Cardiovascular Services Manager: Manage departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Cardiovascular Technologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do cardiovascular techs need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
How long does it take to become a cardiovascular technologist?
Most people need about 2 years of training. An associate degree in cardiovascular technology or sonography is typical; some earn a bachelor’s degree or train in shorter EKG programs.
Do you need a degree to be a cardiovascular technologist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for cardiovascular technologists?
Common credentials include RDCS, RCIS, RVT, and CCT. A few states license sonographers; most employers require national credentials.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-2031 (Cardiovascular technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Cardiovascular technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.