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Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Arizona
If you want to work directly with patients in a hospital, clinic, or long-term care setting, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is one of the fastest ways into the healthcare field.
In Arizona, you can complete PCT training in about a year at accredited trade schools and community colleges. The right program will prepare you for national certification and give you hands-on clinical experience so you’re ready to work.
This guide lists the best Patient Care Technician schools in Arizona, explains the certifications you’ll need, and shows you what to check before you enroll.
What a Patient Care Technician does
A Patient Care Technician works alongside nurses and doctors to provide direct patient support. Duties can include:
Taking vital signs
Assisting with basic medical procedures
Helping patients with daily activities
Collecting lab specimens
Monitoring patient conditions
Many PCTs also complete additional certifications, like phlebotomy or EKG technician, which can expand job opportunities.
Arizona PCT certification requirements
Arizona does not have a separate state license for Patient Care Technicians. However, most employers require a national certification, typically the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Important: To sit for the NHA CPCT/A exam, you must complete an approved training program or have equivalent work experience.
Some employers may also require you to be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arizona. CNA licensing in Arizona is handled by the Arizona State Board of Nursing (www.azbn.gov).
How to choose the best PCT school in Arizona
When evaluating Patient Care Technician programs, check for:
Accreditation This ensures your education meets industry standards.
Clinical Hours Hands-on training in a real healthcare setting is essential.
Exam Prep. Make sure the program prepares you for national certification.
Additional Skills Phlebotomy, EKG monitoring, and basic first aid training can improve your job prospects.
Career services Assistance Some. Schools offer direct hiring connections with local hospitals and clinics.
Best Patient Care Technician schools in Arizona
Here are some of the top PCT training providers based on accreditation, reputation, and program completeness.
#1
GateWay Community College
📍
Phoenix, AZ
•In-state option
Located in Phoenix, AZ GateWay Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.
Steps to become a Patient Care Technician in Arizona
Choose an Accredited Program
Ensure it includes CNA training if required by your target employers.
Complete Classroom and Clinical Training
Expect both lab practice and real-world patient care hours.
Pass Your Certification Exam
Most PCTs take the CPCT/A exam through the NHA.
Apply for CNA Certification (if needed)
Submit your application to the Arizona State Board of Nursing.
Start Applying for Jobs
Hospitals, rehab centers, home health agencies, and clinics hire PCTs.
Career outlook for Patient Care technicians
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies PCTs under nursing assistants and orderlies. Employment in this category is projected to grow in coming years due to an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services1.
Summary and Next Step
If you’re ready to work directly with patients in a fast-paced healthcare setting, completing a Patient Care Technician program in Arizona is a direct route to employment. Start by:
Comparing accredited. Schools near you
Checking if the program includes CNA training
Making sure clinical hours are built into the schedule
Here’s what to do next: Contact at least two of the schools on this list, ask about class schedules and costs, and tour the campus or training facility.
