Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Georgia

Updated August 13, 2025

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Becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Georgia starts with choosing the right school. The program you pick will prepare you for daily work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Most employers in Georgia want you to complete an accredited training program and pass a certification exam. Here's what to know before you sign up.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A PCT works alongside nurses and doctors. Duties can include:

  • Checking vital signs
  • Helping patients bathe, dress, and move
  • Drawing blood
  • Performing EKG tests
  • Documenting patient information

The role combines parts of nursing assistant work with extra clinical skills. Good programs teach both.

Training Requirements in Georgia

Georgia does not license PCTs at the state level. However, almost all healthcare employers require that you:

  1. Complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program.
  2. Pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam.
  3. Gain additional skills like phlebotomy and EKG through a PCT program.
  4. Pass a national PCT certification exam such as the CPCT/A from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Most facilities in Georgia hire PCTs who are already Certified Nursing Assistants with extra training in clinical procedures.

How Long Training Takes

Program length depends on the school. Here's a typical breakdown:

Program Type Length Includes
CNA + PCT Combo 4-6 months CNA training, phlebotomy, EKG, clinicals
Stand-alone PCT 3-4 months For CNAs adding skills
Diploma Program 9-12 months Expanded health sciences curriculum

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Georgia

Below are some of the top schools and training centers offering PCT programs in Georgia. All are either accredited or approved training providers.

1. Georgia Piedmont Technical College - Clarkston, GA

  • Offers a Nurse Aide Accelerated Program plus PCT specialization
  • Includes classroom, lab, and clinical rotations
  • Prepares students for CNA and CPCT/A exams
    Visit site

2. Augusta Technical College - Augusta, GA

  • Patient Care Assisting Certificate program
  • Covers nurse aide fundamentals, allied health, phlebotomy, and EKG
  • Strong ties with local hospitals for clinical experience
    Visit site

3. Atlanta Career Institute - Norcross, GA

  • Private training center with PCT certification program
  • Combines CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG courses
  • Day, evening, and weekend schedules available
    Visit site

4. Southern Crescent Technical College - Griffin, GA

  • Health Care Assistant Certificate leading to PCT skills
  • Offers stackable credentials to continue toward LPN or RN
  • Includes supervised clinical training
    Visit site

5. Albany Technical College - Albany, GA

  • Nurse Aide Technical Certificate of Credit with add-on PCT courses
  • Focus on hands-on training in real clinical settings
  • Affordable tuition for in-state residents
    Visit site

6. Health Tech of Georgia - Jonesboro, GA

  • Specializes in short-term healthcare certification
  • PCT program can be completed in under 16 weeks
  • Small class sizes for more one-on-one instruction
    Visit site

Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Georgia

  1. Choose an accredited program
    Select a school that covers CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG training.

  2. Complete CNA training
    This is needed for most PCT roles in Georgia.

  3. Pass the NNAAP exam
    Get listed on the Georgia Nurse Aide Registry.

  4. Learn extra PCT skills
    Add phlebotomy, EKG, and advanced patient care training.

  5. Get certified
    Pass a national PCT exam like the NHA CPCT/A.

  6. Apply for jobs
    Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing facilities are common employers.

What to Look for in a PCT School

When comparing schools, ask:

  • Is the program state-approved or accredited?
  • Does it prepare you for national certification?
  • Are clinical hours included?
  • What's the total cost, including books and exam fees?
  • What's the class size and schedule flexibility?

Tip: Visit the campus if possible and speak with instructors. See the labs and find out where clinical training will be held.

Certification and Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for nursing assistants-PCTs fall under this category-are expected to grow steadily in the coming years. Hospitals and long-term care facilities in Georgia hire PCTs year-round.

Certification is not just a piece of paper. It proves to employers you meet national standards for patient care.

Many PCTs use this role as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN).

Summary and Next Steps

If you're ready to become a Patient Care Technician in Georgia:

  • Research accredited programs near you.
  • Make sure the program covers CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG.
  • Complete training, pass your exams, and get certified.
  • Apply for entry-level positions and start building experience.

The right school can set you up for a strong start in healthcare. Take the time to compare programs and choose one that fits your schedule, budget, and career goals.

Sources
[^1] :Bureau of Labor Statistics - Nursing Assistants and Orderlies: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nursing-assistants.htm

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