If you want to become an Electrocardiograph (EKG) technician in Mississippi, the first thing you need is the right training. Hospitals and clinics expect you to graduate from an accredited program and understand how to operate EKG machines, read results, and follow patient safety requirements.
This guide focuses on the best EKG tech schools in Mississippi so you can choose a program that works for your schedule, budget, and career goals.
What EKG Technicians Do
EKG technicians work with cardiovascular diagnostic equipment to measure heart activity. Doctors use these results to help diagnose heart conditions in patients. Your day may involve preparing patients, attaching electrodes, running tests, and ensuring accurate records.
Steps to become an EKG tech in Mississippi
Most EKG techs in Mississippi start out the same way:
Graduate high school or earn a GED
A diploma or equivalent is required for most programs.
Complete an EKG training program
Choose an accredited school with both classroom and hands-on clinical training.
Earn a national certification
While Mississippi does not have a state license for EKG technicians, employers often prefer certifications from groups like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT).
Apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic centers
Entry-level opportunities may also appear in home healthcare or mobile testing services.
Note: While Mississippi does not have a licensing requirement specific to EKG techs, employers often require certification and proof of competency in patient care procedures.
Best EKG tech schools in Mississippi
Below are some of the most recognized options in the state for EKG technician training. Always confirm current program details directly with the school.
School
Location
Program Length
Certification Prep
Hinds Community College
Raymond, MS
1 semester (varies)
Prepares for NHA Certified EKG Technician exam
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Multiple campuses
8-16 weeks
Includes NHA exam fee
Holmes Community College
Ridgeland, MS
1 semester
NHA Certified EKG Technician prep
Pearl River Community College
Poplarville, MS
8-10 weeks
National cert exam included
Delta Technical College
Horn Lake, MS
6-9 months
Combines EKG with medical assisting skills
#1
Hinds Community College
📍
Raymond, MS
•In-state option
Located in Raymond, MS Hinds Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aircraft Mechanic (A&P), Aviation Maintenance Technology, and Auto Body and Collision Repair. The campus serves roughly 6,533 learners.
Located in Perkinston, MS Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College 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 6,231 learners.
Located in Goodman, MS Holmes Community College 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 3,847 learners.
Located in Poplarville, MS Pearl River Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aircraft Mechanic (A&P), Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology. The campus serves roughly 4,725 learners.
When picking an EKG tech school in Mississippi, focus on:
Accreditation. Verify the school is recognized by state or national accrediting agencies.
Certification prep. Make sure the training includes preparation for a national exam.
Hands-on training Clinical labs or externships give you real equipment. Practice.
Schedule flexibility Evening or part-time options may work better if you are already employed.
Costs. Confirm total tuition, exam fees, and any required books or supplies.
National certification options
As an EKG tech in Mississippi, you’ll be more competitive with a recognized certification. Popular options include:
Certified EKG Technician (CET) Offered by the NHA
Electrocardiograph Technician Certification Offered by the ASPT
These credentials show employers you are trained and tested on both skill and knowledge.
Training Duration and Structure
Here’s a quick comparison of how long programs may take:
Training Path
Typical Timeframe
Short-term non-credit course
8-16 weeks
1-semester credit course
4-5 months
Diploma or combined program
6-12 months
Short courses get you into the field quickly, while longer programs may expand your skill set for more job options.
What to expect after graduation
Once you complete your program and pass a certification exam, you can:
Apply for hospital or clinic positions
Work in cardiology departments
Support mobile healthcare teams
Continue into related careers like medical assisting or phlebotomy
Many EKG techs use this role to gain healthcare experience before moving into nursing, cardiovascular technology, or other allied health careers.
Final Advice
If you’re to get started a career as an EKG technician in Mississippi, your next step is to contact at least two schools from this list. Ask about start dates, clinical placement sites, and total program cost. If possible, visit the campus to see the lab setup.
Training can be completed in about a year, and with certification, you can work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic labs across the state.
Start with a program that’s accredited, includes hands-on training, and prepares you for national certification. That combination gives you the best chance of being may support your job search.