Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Maryland

Updated August 13, 2025

Table of Contents
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 a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Maryland, the best starting point is choosing the right school. Quality training matters. The program you choose should be accredited, hands-on, and prepare you for national certification. You'll need a strong mix of classroom knowledge and clinical skills to succeed in this role.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A PCT supports nurses and doctors in caring for patients. The job usually combines tasks from nursing assistants, phlebotomists, and EKG technicians. Your work could include:

  • Checking vital signs
  • Drawing blood
  • Performing EKGs
  • Assisting with personal care
  • Monitoring patient conditions

Employers value PCTs who can step into different tasks with competence and professionalism. That starts with solid training.

Maryland Requirements for Patient Care Technicians

Maryland does not have a specific state license for PCTs. However, most employers require both Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) status and national PCT certification.

The typical steps in Maryland are:

  1. Complete a state-approved CNA program.
  2. Pass the Maryland Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
  3. Get listed on the Maryland CNA Registry.
  4. Enroll in a Patient Care Technician program that includes phlebotomy and EKG training.
  5. Pass a national certification such as the NHA Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A).

Maryland Board of Nursing: CNA certification is required before performing patient care tasks in a healthcare facility.

How to Choose the Best PCT School in Maryland

When comparing programs, keep these factors in mind:

  • Accreditation - Look for schools approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission or other recognized accrediting bodies.
  • Hands-on training - Clinical experience in real healthcare settings is essential.
  • Certification prep - The program should prepare you for the NHA CPCT/A exam or similar.
  • Flexible scheduling - Some schools offer evening or weekend classes.
  • Job placement help - Strong connections to local hospitals and clinics can speed up your hiring process.

Top Patient Care Technician Schools in Maryland

Here are some well-established programs to consider. Always contact the school for the most current details.

School Location Program Length Notable Features
College of Southern Maryland Multiple campuses About 5-6 months CNA training with options to add phlebotomy and EKG
Northwest Phlebotomy School - Baltimore Baltimore, MD Varies Intensive hands-on skills; pair with CNA for PCT work
Fortis Institute Towson, MD 9 months Medical Assisting program with PCT-relevant skills
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold, MD Varies State-approved CNA program plus elective clinical courses
Stein Academy Baltimore, MD 6 months Includes CNA, EKG, and phlebotomy in one package

Training Program Structure

Most Patient Care Technician programs in Maryland cover the following:

  • CNA fundamentals - Patient safety, hygiene, vital signs, mobility assistance
  • Phlebotomy techniques - Blood draws, specimen handling, lab safety
  • EKG skills - Cardiac monitoring, lead placement, basic rhythm interpretation
  • Clinical rotations - Supervised training in hospitals or long-term care

Typical format:

Component Hours Required
Classroom learning 100-150 hours
Skills lab 40-60 hours
Clinical externship 40-100 hours

Steps to Start Your Training

  1. Meet prerequisites - Most schools require a high school diploma or equivalent.
  2. Complete a CNA program - You may do this as part of a PCT program or separately.
  3. Get CPR/BLS certified - Many programs require Basic Life Support.
  4. Apply to your chosen PCT program - Provide transcripts, ID, and proof of vaccinations.
  5. Finish classroom and clinical training - Maintain good attendance and grades.
  6. Take national certification exam - This boosts your job prospects.

Why Hands-On Learning Matters

Some skills can only be mastered through repetition in real-life scenarios. Tasks like drawing blood, assisting a patient out of bed, or running a cardiac strip require confidence. The right school will let you practice under supervision before putting you in front of an actual patient.

Career Outlook in Maryland

Maryland's healthcare sector is growing to meet the needs of an aging population. Hospitals, long-term care centers, and rehabilitation facilities often hire PCTs who can manage varied tasks. While there's no guarantee of employment after graduation, the demand for skilled support staff remains steady.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing assistants and similar roles are projected to grow over the next decade, which includes many PCT positions.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

If you want to work directly with patients and help keep healthcare facilities running smoothly, becoming a Patient Care Technician could be the right move.

Here's what you should do next:

  • Research and contact at least three accredited Maryland PCT schools.
  • Ask about tuition, schedules, and clinical placement sites.
  • Make sure the program prepares you for both CNA and PCT certifications.

The sooner you start training, the sooner you can get into the field and build real healthcare experience.

Sources:

Explore Related Topics:

Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.