Best EKG Tech Schools in Arkansas

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want a hands-on job in healthcare that you can train for in months, becoming an EKG technician is worth a serious look. In Arkansas, there are several accredited programs that can give you the skills and certification you need to get hired quickly. This guide will help you find the best schools, understand the training process, and know your next steps.

What an EKG Technician Does

An Electrocardiogram (EKG) technician is responsible for operating equipment that records the electrical activity of a patient's heart. These readings help doctors diagnose heart conditions. You'll need to be precise, follow safety protocols, and work well with both medical staff and patients.

EKG Tech Training in Arkansas

Most EKG technician programs in Arkansas can be completed in 3 to 6 months, sometimes faster if offered through a focused trade school track. Some community college programs combine EKG training with a broader patient care or medical assistant curriculum.

You do not need a license to work as an EKG technician in Arkansas, but most employers want national certification from an organization like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT).

In Arkansas, EKG technicians generally complete a short training program and pass a national certification exam to be competitive for hospital and clinic jobs.

Best EKG Tech Schools in Arkansas

Here are some of the top options for training in the state. All are accredited or meet industry training standards.

1. Arkansas State University - Newport

  • Location: Newport, AR
  • Program Length: ~16 weeks
  • Offers a certificate in EKG technology as part of its Allied Health programs.
  • Prepares students for national certification exams.

2. University of Arkansas - Pulaski Technical College

  • Location: North Little Rock, AR
  • Program Length: 1 semester (part of Clinical Medical Assistant program or standalone course)
  • Provides hands-on use of EKG equipment and patient data analysis.

3. Northwest Technical Institute

  • Location: Springdale, AR
  • Program Length: A few months (short-term certificate)
  • Includes classroom training and practice labs.

4. Petra Allied Health

  • Location: Multiple Arkansas campuses
  • Program Length: 10-12 weeks
  • Prepares students for NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) exam.

5. Arkansas College of Health Careers

  • Location: Little Rock, AR
  • Program Length: Around 12 weeks
  • Includes EKG, patient vital signs, and basic medical terminology.

6. Jefferson Regional Medical Center - School of Allied Health

  • Location: Pine Bluff, AR
  • Program Length: Varied (offered as part of patient care program)
  • Provides direct clinical training with hospital patients.
School Name Location Approximate Program Length Certification Prep
Arkansas State University - Newport Newport 16 weeks Yes
UA - Pulaski Tech North Little Rock 1 semester Yes
Northwest Technical Institute Springdale 3-4 months Yes
Petra Allied Health Multiple cities 10-12 weeks Yes
Arkansas College of Health Careers Little Rock 12 weeks Yes
Jefferson Regional Medical Center Pine Bluff Varies Yes

Steps to Become an EKG Technician in Arkansas

  1. Finish high school or earn a GED.
    Most programs require this as a basic admission requirement.

  2. Choose an accredited EKG training program.
    Community colleges, vocational schools, and private training centers are common choices.

  3. Complete classroom and hands-on training.
    You'll learn heart anatomy, EKG equipment use, patient prep, and safety rules.

  4. Pass a national certification exam.
    The NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) or ASPT certification is widely recognized.

  5. Apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers.
    Include your certification and any clinical hours completed on your resume.

Certification Requirements

Arkansas does not issue state licensing for EKG technicians, but employers often have their own hiring standards.

Common national certification prerequisites include:

  • Completion of an EKG training program
  • Proof of clinical experience or documented practice hours
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Passing an exam such as the NHA CET

Tips for Choosing the Right School

When comparing EKG tech schools in Arkansas, look at:

  • Accreditation - Make sure the school meets recognized training standards.
  • Program length - Shorter doesn't always mean better. Ensure it covers enough clinical practice.
  • Certification prep - Confirm the program includes training for national exams.
  • Job placement support - Ask about connections with local healthcare employers.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're ready to start working in healthcare in less than a year, EKG technician training is one of the fastest paths. Your next move is to:

  • Make a shortlist of schools from the table above.
  • Contact admissions to verify program dates and costs.
  • Enroll and commit to completing your training.
  • Schedule your certification exam as soon as you finish classes.

The sooner you start, the sooner you can be helping patients and supporting doctors in diagnosing heart conditions.

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