Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources.
Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.
If you want to become an Electrocardiograph (EKG) technician in Hawaii, your first step is getting proper training from a reputable program. An EKG tech works with patients to run heart monitoring tests that help doctors diagnose heart conditions. This is a hands-on healthcare role that requires skill, precision, and good people skills.
Here's what you need to know to choose the best school and start your career.
EKG Technician Training Requirements in Hawaii
Hawaii does not have a separate state license for EKG technicians. Most employers require you to:
- Complete a formal EKG technician program from an accredited school.
- Have proof of CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) training.
- Pass a national certification exam, such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) EKG Technician (CET).
Note: Even though Hawaii doesn't have a state licensing board for EKG techs, many hospitals and clinics will only hire you if you have a recognized certification.
Steps to Become an EKG Technician in Hawaii
- Finish high school or earn a GED.
- Choose an accredited EKG tech training program in Hawaii (or an online program with clinical placement in the state).
- Complete hands-on practice through labs or clinical externships.
- Pass a national certification exam like the NHA CET or American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT).
- Apply for jobs in hospitals, diagnostic labs, or cardiology clinics.
Top EKG Tech Schools in Hawaii
Below are schools and programs known for strong EKG tech training in Hawaii. Always confirm details with the school before applying.
1. Hawaii Medical College - Honolulu, HI
- Program: Medical Assisting with EKG specialty training
- Length: Approximately 9 months
- Format: On-campus with clinical externship
- Certification Prep: NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET)
- Website: Hawaii Medical College
- Program: Non-credit EKG Technician Certificate
- Length: 50+ hours classroom and lab instruction
- Format: In-person training
- Certification Prep: Prepares students for the CET exam
- Website: Kapiʻolani CC Continuing Education
3. MedCerts (Online with Hawaii Clinical Placement)
- Program: EKG Technician Certification Program
- Length: 12 weeks self-paced online + externship
- Format: Hybrid (online with local clinical site)
- Certification Prep: NHA Certified EKG Technician
- Website: MedCerts
4. AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare - Online with HI Partnership Sites
- Program: EKG Technician Training
- Length: 11 weeks
- Format: Online lectures + in-person labs in Hawaii partner facilities
- Certification Prep: National exam readiness
- Website: AlliedRx Institute
Comparing Your Options
| School / Program | Length | Format | Includes Certification Prep |
| Hawaii Medical College | 9 months | On-campus + externship | Yes |
| Kapiʻolani Community College | 50+ hrs | In-person | Yes |
| MedCerts | 12 weeks | Online + externship | Yes |
| AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare | 11 weeks | Hybrid (online + lab) | Yes |
Choosing the Right EKG Tech School
When comparing programs, look for:
- Accreditation - ensures recognized training.
- Clinical externship opportunities - needed for skill development.
- Certification preparation - saves time and money later.
- Flexible scheduling - important if you're working while studying.
If you can, visit the campus or speak with an advisor before enrolling.
Certification Exams for Hawaii EKG Techs
The most common certifications for Hawaii EKG technicians include:
- NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET)
- ASPT Electrocardiograph Technician
- American Society of EKG Technicians (ASET) Certification
Certification Tip: Take the exam within a few weeks after you finish your training, while the material is still fresh.
Job Outlook in Hawaii
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for healthcare technicians, including EKG techs, is projected to grow over the next decade. Hospitals, heart clinics, and diagnostic labs in Hawaii regularly seek trained EKG techs to support growing patient needs.
How to Succeed as a New EKG Tech
Once you complete your training and get certified, focus on:
- Maintaining your CPR and BLS credentials.
- Continuing education to stay current with technology.
- Building strong communication skills for patient care.
- Following all safety and infection control standards.
Recertification
Most EKG certifications require renewal every two years through continuing education and/or re-testing.
Summary and Next Step
If you're ready to start a career as an EKG technician in Hawaii, choose a program that offers solid classroom instruction, hands-on training, and certification preparation. Schools like Hawaii Medical College, Kapiʻolani Community College, and hybrid options like MedCerts can help you meet employers' requirements.
Next step: Contact at least two schools on this list, ask about start dates and tuition, and begin your enrollment process. The sooner you start, the sooner you can be working in a vital role helping patients with heart health.
Explore Related Topics:
