collageAs the largest state of the United States of America, it is no surprise that Florida has a great number of school options for those wanting to become a Neurodiagnostic Technologist. The Florida state minimum requirement for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers is a 4-year degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Florida has over 40 schools with diagnostic medical sonography programs and over 1,000 practicing diagnostic medical sonographers. These numbers show that there are plenty of opportunities for those who want to work in this field. However, it can be difficult to choose which program is right for you.
When looking at potential schools, you should consider factors like cost and location. You also want to look at what kind of technology they use in their classrooms as well as how much hands-on experience you will get during school and after graduation.
The average cost for an undergraduate degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography ranges from $8,900 (public) to $26,000 (private). This can vary depending on whether or not you are attending an out-of-state school or whether or not your school offers scholarships or other financial aid options such as grants or loans.”
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Bachelors Degree In Neurodiagnostics
The neurodiagnostic technology industry is only going to get bigger. It’s projected to grow by 6% in the next ten years, and with good reason. Neurodiagnostics is a field that deals with how to diagnose brain disorders and other neurological conditions. This includes everything from Alzheimer’s disease to brain tumors and strokes.
You might wonder why this field is so important. Well, it’s because it can help people get the treatment they need when they’re suffering from a brain disorder or stroke, but also because it can help doctors better understand what causes these conditions in the first place.
And there are so many different types of neurodiagnostic technology out there! You could be working as an EEG technician, which means taking readings from an electroencephalogram (EEG) machine; or you could be working as an MRI technician, which means using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines; or you could even work as an EEG-EMG-NCV technician, which means using EEG-EMG-NCV machines! Whatever type of training you want, there are opportunities for you in this exciting field!
The listings below may include sponsored content but are popular choices among our users.
An admission advisor from each school can provide more info about:
- programs & curriculum
- career opportunities
- tuition & financial aid
- admissions & starting dates
- Southern New Hampshire University School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GEDSchool locations:
- Online LearningProgram InfoOnline Programs
- Master
- MS in Management – HealthcareGet Started with Southern New Hampshire UniversityWhat is your highest level of education completed? Select One… Still in high school High school graduate/GED Some College Associate’s Degree Bachelor’s Degree Master’s Degree
- Southern Technical College: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED School locations:
- Auburndale
- Brandon
- Orlando
- Sanford Program Info Classroom-Based Programs
- Non-Degree
- Medical Assisting (diploma) Get Started with Southern Technical College. What is your highest level of education completed? Select One… High School Some College Associate’s Degree Bachelor’s Degree Master’s Degree Doctorate No High School Degree/GED
- Purdue University Global: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED. School locations:
- Online Learning Program Info Online Programs
- Master
- MS in Nursing
- Bachelor
- BS in Nursing – RN-to-BSN Get Started with Purdue University Global. What is your highest level of education completed? Select One… GED High school diploma Some college (1-19 Semester Credits) Some college (20 or more Semester Credits) Associate’s degree Bachelor’s degree Master’s degree Doctoral degree Still in high school
- Grand Canyon University: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED School locations:
- Online Learning Program Info Online Programs
- Bachelor
- BS in Health Care Administration Get Started with Grand Canyon University What is your highest level of education? Select One… High School Diploma or GED Some College Associates Degree or over 60 credits Bachelor Degree Master Degree or Higher Still in High School
- Columbia Southern University School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED School locations:
- Online Learning Program Info Online Programs
- Master
- MBA – Health Care Management. Get Started with Columbia Southern University. What is your highest level of education completed? Select One… High School diploma/GED Associate’s Bachelor’s Master’s Doctorate’s No High School Degree/GED
- Liberty University: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed locations:
- Online Learning Program Info Online Programs
- Master
- MA: Medical Sciences: Molecular Medicine Get Started with Liberty University. What is your highest level of education? Select One… High School Diploma/GED Some College 0-23 credits Associate’s degree Bachelor’s degree Master’s degree Doctoral Degree Still in High School
- Keiser University: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate. School locations:
- Online Learning Program Info Online Programs
- Bachelor
- RN to BSN
- Associate
- AS in Medical Assisting Get Started with Keiser University What is your highest level of education? Select One… High School Junior High School Senior High School Graduate/GED Associate Degree Bachelor’s Degree Master’s Degree No_HS_Diploma/No_GED
- Northcentral University: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Masters degree applicants must have a Bachelors degree; Doctorate degree applicants must have a Masters degree School locations:
- Online Learning Program Info Online Programs
- Master
- MS in Organizational Leadership – Health Care Administration Get Started with Northcentral University What is your highest level of education? Select One… HS Diploma/GED Some College Associate’s Degree Bachelor’s Degree Master’s Degree Doctoral Degree Have not yet earned HS Diploma or GED
- Independence University: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. School locations:
- Online Learning Program Info Online Programs
- Associate
- Medical Assisting (AOS)Get Started with Independence University. What is your highest level of education completed? Select One… High School or GED Some College (0-23 credits) Some College (24-47 credits) Associate’s Bachelor’s Master’s Doctorate’s No High School Degree/GED
- Florida National University: School Info Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Master’s degree applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or above. School locations:
- Online Learning
- Hialeah Program Info Online Programs
- Associate
- Medical Assisting Tech. – Associates in Science
- Non-Degree
- Medical Assistant – Diploma Get Started with Florida National University
Neurodiagnostic Technologist Schools In Florida
Neurodiagnostic Technologist Schools In Florida
The neurodiagnostic technologist is a specialist that works in the medical field to help diagnose patients with neurological disorders. They perform tests to determine whether the patient has a condition such as epilepsy, dementia, or an illness like Parkinson’s disease. They then report their findings to their supervising doctor so they can make an accurate diagnosis on how to treat the patient.
Neurological conditions are common but not always easy to diagnose. The neurodiagnostic technologist must be well versed in various medical procedures and have excellent communication skills. They must also be able to work under pressure and adapt quickly to changes in their environment. The job requires long hours of intensive training and practice before being able to perform all tasks competently. If you want to become a neurodiagnostic technologist then you should consider enrolling into a school that offers this type of program.
There are many schools throughout Florida that offer degree programs for this field of study including Broward College, Miami Dade College, Valencia College, University of Central Florida (UCF)
List of Neurodiagnostic Technologist Schools
FILTER BY STATE :
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| SCHOOL | CITY | STATE | WEBSITE | GRADS (2018) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concorde Career College-San Bernardino | San Bernardino | California | www.concorde.edu/campus/san-bernardino-california | 38 |
| Alvin Community College | Alvin | Texas | www.alvincollege.edu | 25 |
| American Institute of Medical Sciences & Education | Piscataway | New Jersey | www.aimseducation.edu | 21 |
| Orange Coast College | Costa Mesa | California | www.orangecoastcollege.edu | 20 |
| Collin County Community College District | McKinney | Texas | www.collin.edu | 13 |
| Concorde Career College-Grand Prairie | Grand Prairie | Texas | www.concorde.edu/campus/grand-prairie-texas | 12 |
| Delaware County Community College | Media | Pennsylvania | www.dccc.edu | 12 |
| Lincoln Land Community College | Springfield | Illinois | www.llcc.edu | 12 |
| GateWay Community College | Phoenix | Arizona | www.gatewaycc.edu | 10 |
| Carnegie Institute | Troy | Michigan | www.carnegie-institute.edu | 9 |
How Long Does It Take To Become A Neurodiagnostic Technologist
Neurodiagnostic Technology Institute is dedicated to providing an online neurodiagnostic education that is of high quality, convenient, and affordable. Through our program, we are making neurodiagnostic technology education more easily accessible to a greater number of people. We teach using a custom blend of online and hands-on education to create an engaging and interactive learning environment.
Our goal is to provide students with the knowledge they need to succeed in their careers as neurodiagnostic technicians. To do this, we offer classes that cover everything from the basics of neuroanatomy and physiology to how these factors affect brain function and behavior. We also teach students how they can use diagnostic equipment to identify medical conditions such as seizures or strokes based on a patient’s symptoms or behaviors.
You will be tested regularly to confirm your understanding and application of key neurodiagnostic principles and practices which will allow you to confidently join the workforce in your new career. We seek to raise the current levels of knowledge and professionalism expected from Neurodiagnostic Technologists to make them the most sought after in the industry. It is our mission to lead the industry as the preferred neurodiagnostic technology school. Neurodiagnostic technologist programs neurodiagnostic technology institute reviews neurodiagnostic technologist programs online neurodiagnostic technologist schools NJ.
A picture is worth a million thoughts. At least that’s what a neurodiagnostic technician or technologist (NDT) might tell you. While other photographers are stuck with surface images, NDTs can actually capture the thought and brain patterns of their subjects using sophisticated machinery. Neurodiagnostic technologists learn how to apply different neurological scans, capture brain information, and analyze it in order to help those with neurological disorders. This field is also referred to as electroneurodiagnostic (END) technology.
Although there are four-year bachelor of science (BS) degree programs available, most NDT positions only require a two-year associate of applied science (AAS) degree. For aspiring NDTs, there are several programs to choose from—some with 100 percent of their graduates landing full-time employment upon graduation, such as the program at the Mayo Clinic. Students who choose to further their career as a neurodiagnostic technologist can even complete additional schooling and specialize by earning a certificate in sleep disorders, electroencephalogram (EEG) testing, or epilepsy.
Neurodiagnostic technology appears to be a lucrative career on the rise. According to Payscale, salaries for NDTs can range from around $34,000 to over $65,500 annually depending on training and experience. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2017) projects that this field, which the organization classifies under the medical technologists and technicians, will grow 13 percent between 2016 and 2026, much faster than the average growth expected for all occupations (7 percent).
For those interested in a growing healthcare career which probes deeper than a surface level, NDT schooling might be a perfect choice.
ABRET Accredited Programs
While new students to the field of neurodiagnostic technology may benefit from an associate of science (AS) or associate of applied science (AAS) degree in the field, more seasoned healthcare professionals or those already with degrees may consider a certification program to increase their employment marketability. An AAS provides students with basic healthcare experiences allowing them to determine whether an electrodiagnostic (END) career is a good fit for their personality and skill set.
For an AAS degree, students can apply directly out of high school, or with very little background in the medical field. Still, some programs require certain clinical or educational standards to be met prior to beginning the program. AS and certificate programs are likely to have similar admissions standards. For bachelor of science (BS) program, students should be prepared to submit to a more rigorous admissions process.
Following is a sampling of programs in neurodiagnostic technology that represent the types of programs that may be available to interested students:
Gateway Community College (AAS) – At their Washington Campus in Phoenix, Arizona Gateway Community College offers an associate of applied science program in electroneurodiagnostic technology. Prior to beginning the program, students must complete two semesters of prerequisites including courses in human anatomy, composition, and algebra. After fulfilling those course requirements, students begin the program, which will take an additional five semesters to complete.
Mayo Clinic (AS and Certificate of Completion) – The Mayo Clinic, located in Rochester, Minnesota, is one of the top healthcare schools as listed by the U.S. News and World Report (2018). The clinical neurophysiology program at the Mayo Clinic admits only seven students per year. In addition, students who complete this program receive not only an AS degree from the Rochester Community and Technical College, but also a certificate. The 24-month program requires students to have a high school diploma as well as coursework in biology, and algebra. In addition, applicants must complete a job shadow prior to enrollment. Ninety percent of students graduating from this program pass their national board exam on the first try and 100 percent are placed in jobs after graduation.
University of North Carolina (BS) – One of the few four-year neurodiagnostic programs, this is an excellent program for students who are looking for a well-rounded education. Located at the school’s Charlotte, North Carolina campus, the UNC neurodiagnostics and sleep science (NDSS) bachelor’s degree program. This program builds on previous knowledge, so applicants should already be working as sleep technologists or electroneurodiagnostic technologists and should hold an associate’s degree. An RPSGT or R.EEG.T. credential is required for application Upon graduation, 100 percent of participants in this program are gainfully employed.
Orange Coast College (AAS) – Located in Costa Mesa, California, Orange Coast College offers a 22-month program is compliant with the standards set by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), and prepares students to take the ABRET EEG Technician Certification exam. The program offers admission to students in the fall of even years only. Students who are already working in the field may choose to complete an abbreviated certificate program rather than the full AAS curriculum.
Kirkwood Community College (AAS) – Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Kirkwood Community College offers a CAAHEP-accredited degree program in electroneurodiagnostic (END) technology, affiliated with the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, is best known for its small class sizes and intense one-on-one training. Iowa residents who enroll in the program may be eligible to have half of their tuition paid by the state’s Kibbie Grant program, which is another incentive to apply.
For those looking to explore even more on-campus options, the American Society of Electroneurodiagnostic Technologists (ASET) provides a comprehensive list of every college that provides an accredited degree program, including AS, AAS, BS, and certification program options.
Nuclear Medicine Schools in Florida with Degree Program
Essential Information
Most schools in Florida offer nuclear medicine technology programs, which typically lead to an undergraduate certificate, associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree. This type of program can help students become nuclear medicine technologists who scan patients, prepare/administer drugs and record procedures. Studies combine classroom training with clinical experiences. Depending on the school, applicants to a certificate program may need to be existing licensed health care professionals with an associate degree.
Nuclear medicine residency programs are also available, which are designed for students who have completed medical school. Only one school listed in this article offers this type of residency program. Two schools that aren’t profiled below, the University of Florida and the University of South Florida, offer nuclear medicine training within diagnostic radiology residency programs as well.
Career Requirements
The state requires nuclear medicine technologists to be licensed. Licensing requirements include completion of an approved nuclear medicine technology program and certification from the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and/or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). If the applicant is not yet certified when applying for state licensure, he or she can be licensed by examination. Certification requirements include passing the required examination, completing a background check and submitting fingerprints.
In order to become licensed doctors in Florida, individuals need to graduate from an approved medical school and participate in one or two years of residency training. Applicants also need to pass all parts of an approved exam, such as the United States Medical Licensing Examination. Read on below to learn more about schools that offer either nuclear medicine technology programs or nuclear medicine residencies in the state of Florida.
1. AdventHealth University
Situated in Orlando, AdventHealth University offers a bachelor’s degree program in nuclear medicine technology. The first two years of the program provide general education and foundational science courses in physics, chemistry, anatomy and physiology. The last two years cover nuclear medicine, radiation, imaging, radiopharmacy and clinical experience. The school’s nuclear medicine technology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT). Graduates are qualified to sit for NMTCB and ARRT certification examinations.
2. Barry University
Barry University (BU) is a private Catholic university located in Miami. The school offers a bachelor’s degree program in nuclear medicine technology. BU provides the academic science background, while the nuclear medicine technology practical and clinical portions of the program are provided by an accredited nuclear medicine school affiliated with BU. BU’s nuclear medicine program is accredited by JRCMNT, and graduates are prepared to test for NMTCB or ARRT certification.
3. Broward College
A nuclear medicine technology technical certificate or associate’s degree is available from Broward College in Miami. The certificate program is only offered to applicants who have an associate’s degree in a related health field or a valid Florida health care license. The certificate and degree programs both provide courses in nuclear medicine, nuclear medicine methodology, instrumentation, radiopharmacy and radiation therapy. Both programs also provide clinical experience in at least three hospitals in Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and Broward counties. The normal schedule consists of two days of classes and labs and three days of clinical experience, and the program is only available in a full-time format. In addition to the technical training, the associate’s degree program also provides general education coursework.
4. Gulf Coast State College
A college credit certificate program in nuclear medicine technology is offered by Gulf Coast State College in Panama City. This program is offered to licensed health professionals with an associate’s degree. This is a full-time program consisting of 48 credits of online coursework in nuclear medicine physics, methodology and radiation, as well as clinical training. Graduates of this 14-month program are qualified to sit for the ARRT Nuclear Medicine and NMTCB certification examinations.
5. Hillsborough Community College
Situated in Tampa, Hillsborough Community College (HCC) offers an associate’s degree in nuclear medicine technology. Coursework covers nuclear medicine, instrumentation, physics and methodology. Clinical internships and classes in this full-time program are only offered during the day. Applicants to the program must have completed prerequisite courses. This program is accredited by JRCMNT, and graduates are qualified to seek national certification and state licensure as nuclear medicine technologists.
6. Indian River State College
The main campus of Indian River State College in Fort Pierce is home to the nuclear medicine technology program. The school offers an associate’s degree and a 49-credit advanced certificate for applicants who already hold an associate’s degree in radiography, respiratory therapy or nursing. Applicants to the program must have a current CPR certification. The program includes classroom study in nuclear medicine as well as clinical education components conducted at regional hospitals. The school’s nuclear medicine technology program is accredited by JRCMNT. Those who finish the program should be prepared to sit for ARRT and NMTCB certification examinations.
7. Keiser University – Ft. Lauderdale
The Ft. Lauderdale campus of Keiser University offers an associate’s degree program in nuclear medicine technology. Courses include nuclear medicine instrumentation, radiation safety, nuclear medicine methodology and nuclear medicine physics, and students get to also complete clinical rotations. Graduates are qualified to seek certification as nuclear medicine technologists from ARRT and NMTCB.
8. Miami Dade College
Miami Dade College’s Medical Campus, situated in the Miami health district, houses the school’s nuclear medicine program. The school offers an associate’s degree and a certificate program in nuclear medicine. The associate’s degree program consists of seven semesters involving general education and nuclear medicine-related coursework, as well as clinical experience at the hospitals in the health district. The 4-semester certificate program is offered to applicants who already possess an associate’s degree in a health care field and a corresponding professional health care license. Graduates meet the requirements to take ARRT and NMTCB certification examinations and seek Florida state licensure as nuclear medicine technologists.
9. Santa Fe College
Located in Gainesville, Santa Fe College provides an associate’s degree program in nuclear medicine technology. This program is conducted in cooperation with area hospitals, medical centers and outpatient cardiac practices. The program consists of 22 months of academic coursework, labs and clinical training. Santa Fe College’s nuclear medicine technology program is accredited by JRCNMT, and 100% of graduates in 2011 who took the ARRT and NMTCB certification examinations passed on the first attempt.
10. University of Miami
This school, which is found in Coral Gables, is the only institution in the state that offers a nuclear medicine residency program that’s approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Residency programs don’t usually charge tuition, since residency students are typically paid for their work.
Three students are admitted to the program each year, and they can pursue one of three pathways, depending on their previous residency experience. Each student is required to complete one research project that qualifies for publishing in a radiology journal. The first year of the program covers a variety of foundational topics and procedures, such as performing examinations, imaging techniques and data analysis. The next two years focus on clinical abilities and teach students how to work on specialized procedures. Students can also expect to complete a written exam as well as an exam administered by the American Board of Nuclear Medicine.
School Comparison: At a Glance
| School Name | School Type and Setting | Nuclear Medicine Programs Offered | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| AdventHealth University | 4-year; private, not-for-profit; midsize city | Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology | $12,240 |
| Barry University | 4-year; private, not-for-profit; large suburb | Bachelor of Science in Clinical Biology with a specialization in nuclear medicine technology | $30,014 |
| Broward College | 4-year, primarily associate’s; public; midsize city | Associate in Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology, Nuclear Medicine Technology Specialist Technical Certificate | $2,830 in-state $8,952 out-of-state |
| Gulf Coast State College | 4-year, primarily associate’s; public; small city | Nuclear Medicine Technology College Credit Certificate | $2,370 in-state $8,633 out-of-state |
| Hillsborough Community College | 2-year; public; large city | Associate in Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology | $2,506 in-state $9,111 out-of-state |
| Indian River State College | 4-year, primarily associate’s; public; large suburb | Associate in Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology, Nuclear Medicine Technology Specialist Certificate | $2,764 in-state $10,201 out-of-state |
| Keiser University – Ft. Lauderdale | 4-year, primarily associate’s; private, not-for-profit; midsize city | Associate of Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology | $20,208 |
| Miami Dade College | 4-year, primarily associate’s; public; large city | Associate in Science in Nuclear Medicine, Nuclear Medicine College Certificate | $2,838 in-state $9,661 out-of-state |
| Santa Fe College | 4-year; public; midsize suburb | Associate of Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology | $2,563 in-state $9,189 out-of-state |
| University of Miami | 4-year; private, not-for-profit; large suburb | Nuclear Medicine Residency | $50,226 |
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Hybrid And Online Programs
While there are several traditional colleges that offer on-campus neurodiagnostic technology (NDT) degrees, there are few accredited online and hybrid options due to the vital clinical portion that must be completed at an approved medical site. As of 2015, there are no fully online degree or certificate programs in this field.
The only exception is University of West Georgia’s Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Imaging Technology program, which offers an online option for its NDT concentration. The program is designed for students who have received their associate’s degree in radiologic technology or a related field and want to continue their education while working full time. Students will complete all coursework through Georgia’s virtual learning environment (VLE), with clinical training conducted at local hospitals.
Students who complete this program will be prepared for careers as CT technologists, MRI technologists, nuclear medicine technologists and PET/CT technologists.
That said, there are some certificate programs that offer the convenience and flexibility of hybrid (online + in-person) coursework for students that require more flexibility.
Following are two programs that offer online courses that are expected to be completed in conjunction with supervised practicums (i.e., the hands-on portion of NDT training):
Labouré College (certificate) – This is one of the few online NDT programs, and is at the cutting edge of professional distance education. This 20-month program prepares students to perform a variety of procedures, including electroencephalograms (EEG), evoked potentials (EP), polysomnograms (PSG), nerve conduction monitoring (NCM), and more. Additionally, this CAAHEP-accredited program gives students the independence to find their own clinical facilities where they are expected to complete at least 16 hours per week of supervised work for the duration of the program. These placements can be secured with the assistance of a program coordinator.
Institute of Health Sciences (certificate): This two-year electroneurodiagnostic (END) program combines online coursework with supervised clinical practicums. While completing rigorous classes on the web, including electroneurodiagnostics, neurological disorders, and emergency preparedness, students are expected to complete at least 15 hours per week at a pre-approved clinical site. This school is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Students graduating from these programs are generally eligible to take the national certification exam for EEG Technicians administered by the American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologists (ABRET).
As regional and clinic-specific certification guidelines may vary, it is important to verify with program administrators that schools can meet student-specific needs prior to enrollment.
| SCHOOL | CITY | STATE | WEBSITE | GRADS (2018) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Institute of Health Sciences | Hunt Valley | Maryland | www.iohs.org | 79 |
| Laboure College | Milton | Massachusetts | www.laboure.edu | 41 |
| Pamlico Community College | Grantsboro | North Carolina | www.pamlicocc.edu | 13 |
Core And Elective Courses
For neurodiagnostic technology programs, program duration may vary depending on degree earned (e.g., associate, bachelor’s, or certificate), but overall the curriculum is very much the same. Candidates are taught how to use various neurodiagnostic machines such as an electroencephalogram machine (EEG), as well as how to interpret and analyze readings from these machines.
Some of the courses in the program curriculum may include:
- Basic Core Curriculum: For an associate (AS or AAS) degree program, students are required to take basic science, math, and English courses.
- Electroencephalography: This teaches neurological patterning and how the brain’s physical composition affects electrical reading of the EEG machine. This class also shows how to apply electrodes to patients’ scalps to take EEG readings.
- Introduction to neuroscience: All NDT students must have a good basic understanding of the neurological functions of the brain and the parts of the nervous system. In this course, students are exposed to various imaging techniques and how to identify types of synaptic potentials.
- Clinical correlations: This coursework connects the readings from electrodiagnostic machines to specific neurological disorders and diseases. Specifically, students are taught how to recognize readings associated with epilepsy, sleep disorders, and pediatric conditions.
- Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IOM): This class—often offered as an introductory course—shows how to monitor patients’ EEGs and evoked potentials (EPs), in addition to instructing on neuromuscular applications.
- Evoked potentials (EP): This class instructs students in stimulating (“evoking”) and recognizing neural activity based on auditory, visual, and physical stimuli.
- Polysomnography (PSG or sleep studies): Although this class is usually offered as an introductory course, it can provide the basis for further NDT specialization. It teaches how to recognize stages of sleep, sleep disorders, and potential treatment options.
Accreditation
Although different specialties may require certification through an independent specialty board, all valid END degrees must be completed by a school complying with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Heath Education Programs (CAAHEP). In addition, many schools are in compliance with standards set by the Committee on Accreditation for Education in Neurodiagnostic Technology (CoA-NDT). This body does a thorough investigation on the university or college in question, including a site visit, review of the student outcomes at the school, and a curriculum audit to ensure that courses are compliant with CAAHEP’s benchmarks.
All NDT programs, regardless of whether they are online or in a brick-and-mortar setting, should be compliant with the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and listed as an accredited university or trade school with the U.S. Department of Education.
If a student is planning on attending an online or hybrid neurodiagnostic technology program, it may be advisable to ensure that a school is also in compliance with the Distance Education Accreditation Council (DEAC). In this accreditation process, the DEAC confirms that the online university is financially sound, helping real students, and providing education in compliance with state standards.
Career Outlook
Because Neurodiagnostic Technology is such a specialized industry, O*NET (2018) projects these career opportunities to grow by 15 percent or more between 2016 and 2026. The growth rate for this profession is more than double the national average of 7 percent, mostly due to the projected increase in aging baby boomers and their related neural dysfunctions. In addition, as scientists look more at the connection between neurology and increased aberrant behaviors (such as autism or ADHD) more young people will need the services of neurodiagnostic technicians and specialists.
There are several specializations, which may be even in more demand. Intraoperative neuromonitoring technologists make an average of $58,012 per year according to PayScale.com (2018), while epilepsy monitoring technicians can make a little over $57,000 per year.
Although it is possible to get a job as a neurodiagnostic technologist without a degree, pay increases with certification and an associate’s degree. Earning professional credentials and pursuing a formal education can also lead to better wages, as a technologist degree can be transferred towards a specialist program.
| CAREER FACTS | NEURODIAGNOSTIC TECHNOLOGIST |
|---|---|
| Related Careers | Sonography, Ultrasound Technology, Medical Assisting |
| Common Job Titles | EEG Tech, Monitor Tech, Neurophysiology Tech, Epilepsy Monitoring Tech. |
| Technology & Equipment | Electroencephalography (EEG) Equipment, Neurofax Polysmith Software, Electomyographs (EMG) |
| Sourced from BLS, June 2018 |
Licensing And Certification
It is possible to work as a neurodiagnostic technologist without a degree, as long as the applicant has extensive experience working with neurodiagnostic machines and software. For instance, a medical assistant or sonographer could potentially be hired for this type of position, as long as they can prove a significant mastery of the equipment and other responsibilities. Still, there are many employers who will not hire a neurodiagnostic technician without some form of licensure or certification. There are several ways to accomplish this depending on what specialty one would like to pursue.
The American Association of Electrodiagnostic Technologists (AAET) offers a certification for Registered Nerve Conduction Study Technology (R.NCS.T), which can be completed by both degree holders and non-degree holder. Students not completing electrodiagnostic technologist programs can still take the certification exam, provided that they have at least six months of experience in Nerve Conduction Studies and an equivalent of two years of college courses in biology, math, anatomy, English, and physiology.
A majority of NDT, END, and EEG applicants are required to obtain an associate’s degree in NDT Technology as well pass a national certification exam through the American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic & Evoked Potential Technologists (ABRET). This national board exam is only for those who have been recommended by the Committee on Accreditation for Education in Neurodiagnostic Technology (CoA-NDT), and who have completed a program at a school accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Heath Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Neurodiagnostic Technologist Schools In Florida
All the following neurodiagnostic technologist schools in Florida are fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This means that they have met standards set by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council on Occupational Education.
The programs below offer online, campus-based and hybrid classes. Most programs last two years or less. You can also earn a certificate in neurodiagnostic technology from some of these schools rather than pursue a degree or diploma—check with each school for information on available certificates or how to apply for one.
To find out which school is right for you, contact admissions departments directly for information about tuition costs, curriculum, program length and other requirements like GRE scores or letters of recommendation from employers or professors who know your work ethic well enough to vouch for it in an official capacity as potential employers often do when hiring new employees into their organization’s management team (or “corporate office”).
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