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If you want to become a patient care technician in Minnesota, the first step is to choose the right school. A good program will teach you the technical skills, safety procedures, and patient communication techniques you need to work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
In Minnesota, patient care technicians (PCTs) often train through programs that combine nursing assistant certification with extra clinical skills. Some employers also require phlebotomy and EKG training.
Here's what you should know before enrolling.
What You'll Learn in a Patient Care Technician Program
Most Minnesota PCT programs prepare you in four main skill areas:
- Basic nursing assistant care - helping patients with daily activities, taking vital signs, and communicating care plans to nurses.
- Phlebotomy - collecting blood samples safely.
- EKG monitoring - operating electrocardiograph machines and recording heart activity.
- Patient safety and hygiene - preventing infection, moving patients safely, and maintaining a clean environment.
You'll also practice teamwork and communication skills. These are essential because PCTs work closely with nurses and other healthcare staff.
Minnesota Training and Certification Requirements
In Minnesota, the required certification depends on your employer's expectations.
State Note: To work as a nursing assistant in Minnesota, you must be on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry and pass a state-approved competency evaluation.
A patient care technician role often builds on this requirement with additional certifications in phlebotomy and EKG operation. While Minnesota does not have a separate PCT license, most facilities prefer candidates who have completed a formal PCT training program from an accredited school.
Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Minnesota
Here are some respected options to start your PCT career.
1. Hennepin Technical College - Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie
- Program: Nursing Assistant with additional patient care skills
- Length: About 6-12 weeks, depending on schedule
- Highlights: State-approved Nursing Assistant training, small class sizes, strong clinical partnerships in the Twin Cities area.
2. Saint Paul College - Saint Paul
- Program: Patient Care Technician Certificate
- Length: 2 semesters
- Highlights: Includes CNA certification, EKG training, and phlebotomy; combines classroom learning with hospital-based clinicals.
- Program: Nursing Assistant and Patient Care coursework
- Length: CNA course + additional elective healthcare skills
- Highlights: Located in downtown Minneapolis; offers pathways to LPN and RN programs if you want to advance your career.
4. Century College - White Bear Lake
- Program: Nursing Assistant, with optional phlebotomy and EKG modules
- Length: CNA course is one semester; add-on certifications available
- Highlights: Flexible scheduling, well-equipped labs, and regional hospital partnerships.
5. Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State)
- Program: Patient Care Technician Certificate
- Length: 1 year
- Highlights: Fully accredited, includes clinical experience in healthcare facilities, strong job placement support.
Program Length and Structure
The length of your training will vary. Here's a quick comparison:
| School | Program Length | Certifications Included |
| Hennepin Technical College | 6-12 weeks | CNA |
| Saint Paul College | 2 semesters | CNA, EKG, Phlebotomy |
| MCTC | 1 semester + electives | CNA + optional |
| Century College | 1-2 semesters | CNA + optional |
| M State | 1 year | CNA, EKG, Phlebotomy |
Shorter programs get you working faster, but longer programs may improve your skills and job options.
How to Choose the Right PCT School in Minnesota
When comparing programs, focus on the following:
- State approval - Make sure the CNA portion is Minnesota Department of Health-approved.
- Accreditation - Schools should be accredited or part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.
- Clinical opportunities - Hands-on training in real healthcare settings is essential.
- Additional certifications - Phlebotomy and EKG skills can increase your employability.
- Location and schedule - Consider commute and whether you need evening or weekend classes.
Steps to Start Your Training
- Confirm admission requirements - Some schools require a background check or immunizations before clinicals.
- Apply to a program - Follow the school's application process and meet enrollment deadlines.
- Complete CNA training and exam - This is mandatory for most PCT roles in Minnesota.
- Add phlebotomy and EKG training - These may be part of the program or offered as separate modules.
- Register on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry - Once you pass the CNA exam, your name must be added to the state registry.
- Prepare for employment - Build a resume that lists all clinical skills and certifications.
Career Outlook for Patient Care Technicians
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , employment for healthcare support roles like patient care technicians is expected to grow steadily. Minnesota's aging population and focus on quality care will continue to create demand for trained PCTs in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities.
Summary and Next Steps
Choosing the best patient care technician school in Minnesota depends on your location, schedule, and career goals. Look for a program that meets state CNA requirements, offers strong clinical training, and includes extra certifications.
Here's what to do next:
- Compare at least three schools from the list above.
- Contact admissions offices for details on start dates and costs.
- Apply early to reserve your spot, especially for programs with limited class sizes.
The sooner you start training, the sooner you can join the healthcare team making a difference for patients every day.
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