Best EKG Technician Schools in Colorado
If you want to become an EKG technician in Colorado, the first step is to get the right training. EKG (electrocardiogram) techs work with doctors and nurses to record heart activity. They help diagnose heart conditions and play a big role in patient care.
In Colorado, there's no state license for EKG techs. Most employers want you to complete a short training program and pass a national certification exam. The good news? You can finish training in a few weeks or months and be ready to apply for your first role.
What You Need Before You Enroll
You don't need a college degree to become an EKG tech. Most schools only require:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Basic reading, writing, and math skills
- Proof of immunizations (for clinical training)
- Background check and drug screening
It's best to check the school's exact requirements before you apply.
Best EKG Tech Schools in Colorado
Here are some of the top options based on accreditation, training quality, and employer connections.
1. Pima Medical Institute - Denver & Colorado Springs
Program length: 3-4 months (day or evening classes) Highlights:
- Hands-on training with real EKG equipment
- Includes practice in rhythm interpretation
- career services for career services Learn more at Pima Medical Institute
2. Front Range Community College
Location: Westminster, Larimer, and Brighton campuses Program length: 10-16 weeks (non-credit healthcare certificate) Highlights:
- Affordable tuition for Colorado residents
- Prepares you for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CET exam
- Classes taught by experienced healthcare professionals Program details at Front Range Community College
3. Emily Griffith Technical College - Denver
Program length: 12 weeks Highlights:
- Small class sizes for individualized attention
- Combines lecture, lab work, and clinical practice
- Located in downtown Denver with easy transit access Visit Emily Griffith Technical College
4. Red Rocks Community College
Program length: One semester (part-time or full-time) Highlights:
- Includes EKG training as part of a broader patient care program
- Good option if you want to expand skills beyond cardiac monitoring View Red Rocks Community College healthcare programs
5. AIMS Community College
Location: Greeley & Fort Lupton Program length: Varies (standalone or part of patient care technician path) Highlights:
- Affordable community college tuition
- National certification exam preparation Explore AIMS Community College
Training Program Lengths in Colorado
| School / Program | Approx. Duration | Certification Prep Included |
|---|---|---|
| Pima Medical Institute | 3-4 months | Yes |
| Front Range Community College | 10-16 weeks | Yes |
| Emily Griffith Technical College | 12 weeks | Yes |
| Red Rocks Community College | 1 semester | Yes |
| AIMS Community College | Varies | Yes |
Certification for EKG Techs in Colorado
While Colorado does not require a state license for EKG techs, most employers expect certification from a recognized organization. Common options include:
- Certified EKG Technician (CET) from the National Healthcareer Association
- Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) from Cardiovascular Credentialing International
Important: Even if a job posting says "no certification required," having it can give you a hiring advantage and help you qualify for higher-skilled roles.
Steps to Get Started as an EKG Tech in Colorado
- Research accredited schools in your area or online.
- Meet entry requirements like a high school diploma or GED.
- Enroll in a program that includes hands-on lab work.
- Complete classroom and clinical training to get real-world practice.
- Pass a national certification exam such as CET or CCT.
- Apply for entry-level jobs in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic labs.
Why Choose a Colorado School
Colorado's healthcare job market is growing, and training locally can help with:
- Employer connections through clinical rotations
- Faster career services with local healthcare providers
- Understanding state-specific workplace practices
Tips for Choosing the Right EKG Program
- Look for schools with certification prep built in. This saves time and money later.
- Ask about clinical placements. Hands-on time in a real healthcare setting is critical.
- Compare schedules. Some programs offer evenings or weekends if you're working.
- Review graduate success rates. Higher pass rates for certification exams are a good sign.
Final Thoughts
Becoming an EKG technician in Colorado is a fast way to apply for roles upon completion. Most programs take a few months, and certification is straightforward if you choose the right school. Start by contacting two or three schools from the list above to compare costs, schedules, and clinical opportunities.
Here's what you should do next: Pick a program, confirm the start date, and apply. Within a few months, you could be ready to work alongside doctors and nurses in a vital role monitoring heart health.
Find accredited ekg technician programs in Colorado, compare campus and online options, and learn the exact steps to qualify. This guide covers typical program length, admission requirements, certification or licensing, tuition, and job outlook so you can choose the best path in your area.
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