If you want to get into healthcare without spending years in college, becoming an EKG technician is one option. Many programs take about a year; timelines vary by school and schedule. Hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic labs in Michigan employ EKG techs, but hiring needs vary by region and employer.
Here’s what you need to know about EKG programs, licensing, and the best schools in Michigan.
What an EKG Technician Does
An EKG technician runs tests that record a patient’s heart activity. This includes setting up the equipment, explaining the test, and making sure the results are accurate. Doctors use those test results to diagnose heart problems.
You need to be comfortable working with patients, paying close attention to detail, and following safety procedures.
Michigan requirements for EKG technicians
Michigan does not have a state licensing program for EKG techs. Most employers want you to:
Complete a certificate program from an accredited school
Learn to perform standard, stress, and Holter monitor EKGs
Hold a national certification such as Certified EKG Technician (CET) from recognized bodies
Note: Certification is not legally required in Michigan, but it greatly improves your chances of getting hired.
How to become an EKG tech in Michigan
Choose an accredited program - Look for schools with lab facilities and clinical practice.
Complete training - Usually 3-12 months, depending on full or part time.
Get hands-on experience - Most Michigan schools include externships in their programs.
Pass a national certification exam - Often done through credentialing organizations after graduation.
Apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic centers.
Best EKG tech schools in Michigan
Below are some of the recognized programs in Michigan. Always confirm program length, cost, and certification options directly with the school.
#1
Dorsey College
📍
Madison Heights, MI
•In-state option
Located in Madison Heights, MI Dorsey College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Beauty Cosmetology, Cosmetologist, and Electrician.
Located in Auburn Hills, MI Oakland Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.
Located in Detroit, MI Wayne County Community College District is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology. The campus serves roughly 7,848 learners.
Located in Grand Rapids, MI Grand Rapids Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Accounting Technology.
Accreditation School or program should meet industry standards.
Clinical Training Hands-on lab work with EKG machines.
Certification Prep Training that directly ties into CET exam requirements.
Flexible Scheduling Evening or weekend classes if you’re working.
career services Career services or employer connections.
Typical Coursework
Most Michigan EKG tech programs include:
Anatomy of the heart
Medical terminology
EKG lead placement
Arrhythmia identification
Patient care & communication
Safety and infection control
Your training will mix classroom work with hands-on labs and clinical practice.
National EKG certification options
Common credentials employers in Michigan look for include:
Certified EKG Technician (CET) National Healthcareer Association
Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) Cardiovascular Credentialing International
You usually need to pass an exam and complete continuing education to keep your certification current.
Why certification helps
Even though Michigan does not require it, certification:
Proves your skills to. Employers
May improve job prospects
Shows you meet a national standard
Steps to start your EKG training
Research schools in your area or online.
Visit campuses to see labs and talk with instructors.
Ask about externships to get real-world practice.
Check exam pass rates for the program.
Enroll and begin your training.
Summary and Next Step
If you want a fast path into healthcare, EKG training is one of the quickest. In Michigan, you can finish school in about a year, prepare for national certification, and apply for work in hospitals or clinics right away.
Here’s what to do next:
Make a shortlist of schools from the table above, contact them for start dates and tuition costs, and pick the one that fits your schedule and budget. With the right program, you could be working as an EKG tech in Michigan within months.