Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Nebraska

If you want to work directly with patients in a healthcare setting, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is one of the fastest ways to get started. In Nebraska, you can complete training in months, not years, and enter a role that supports doctors and nurses while making a real difference for patients.

The key is finding an accredited school with a program that matches your schedule, budget, and career goals.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A PCT works in hospitals, nursing homes, rehab centers, and clinics. You'll help patients with daily activities, check vital signs, collect samples, and assist nurses with basic medical procedures. You might also be trained to draw blood (phlebotomy) and perform EKGs.

In Nebraska, most employers expect PCTs to also be certified nursing assistants (CNAs). That means your school should prepare you for both CNA and additional patient care skills.

Nebraska Training Requirements

Nebraska does not have a separate state license for "Patient Care Technician" as a unique role. Instead:

In most cases, you need to complete a state-approved nursing assistant course and pass the Nebraska Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation to work in patient care.

Many schools bundle nurse aide training with additional skills like phlebotomy, EKG, and advanced patient care so that you are job-ready for PCT positions.

Top Patient Care Technician Schools in Nebraska

Here are some of the best options based on accreditation, program content, and graduate feedback.

1. Metropolitan Community College - Omaha

Program: Patient Care Technician Certificate of Achievement
Length: About 2 quarters (can be completed in under a year)
Highlights:

• Includes CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG training
• Hands-on clinical experiences in local hospitals
• Prepares graduates for multiple certifications

Visit MCC's program page for admission requirements and application dates.

2. Nebraska Methodist College - Omaha

Program: Nursing Assistant + Advanced Patient Care Training
Length: Varies by course load
Highlights:

• Small class sizes with personalized instruction
• Clinical rotations in affiliated healthcare facilities
• Option to continue into nursing or other healthcare programs

Learn more at Nebraska Methodist College.

3. Central Community College - Multiple Campuses

Program: Nurse Aide with Additional Patient Care Skills
Length: Typically 8-16 weeks for CNA plus extra modules
Highlights:

• State-approved CNA program
• Additional courses for phlebotomy and EKG
• Multiple campus locations across central Nebraska

See Central Community College programs.

4. Southeast Community College - Lincoln

Program: Nurse Aide + Health Science Pathway
Length: Variable, often one semester for basic training
Highlights:

• Strong ties to local employers
• Flexible scheduling (day and evening)
• Options to build toward higher healthcare degrees

Explore SCC training programs.

5. Clarkson College - Omaha

Program: Continuing Education in Patient Care
Length: Program-specific; short-term intensive classes available
Highlights:

• Focuses on upskilling current healthcare workers
• Can be paired with CNA training for PCT preparation
• Accredited and well-respected in Nebraska's healthcare community

Visit Clarkson College.

Comparing Nebraska PCT Training Options

Steps to Start Your Patient Care Technician Career in Nebraska

1. Choose an Accredited Program
   Make sure it's approved for CNA training in Nebraska and offers extra skills for PCT work.

2. Meet Admission Requirements
   Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, a background check, and proof of immunizations.

3. Complete CNA and Additional Training
   You'll need to finish both classroom and clinical hours.

4. Pass the Nebraska Nurse Aide Competency Exam
   This is required to work as a CNA in the state.

5. Earn Additional Certifications (Optional but Recommended)
   Such as Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) or EKG Technician (CET).

6. Apply for Jobs in Hospitals, Long-Term Care, or Clinics
   Many schools have career placement services to help you.

Why Extra Skills Matter

Employers value PCTs who can handle multiple tasks. Adding phlebotomy and EKG training makes you more versatile and can open more job opportunities. Some Nebraska hospitals specifically post positions for "Patient Care Technician" rather than CNA.

Tips for Choosing the Right School

• Location: Consider your commute or look for online/hybrid options with local clinical placements.
• Schedule: Evening or weekend classes may be necessary if you're working.
• Certifications: Confirm what certifications you will be eligible for at graduation.
• Clinical Sites: Quality clinical placements often lead to job offers.
• Costs and Financial Aid: Ask about grants, scholarships, or payment plans.

Summary and Next Steps

If you want a direct route into healthcare with strong job demand, a Patient Care Technician program is a smart choice. In Nebraska, that means picking a state-approved CNA program that also teaches advanced patient care, phlebotomy, and EKG.

Here's what to do next:

• Review the schools listed above.
• Compare program details, locations, and schedules.
• Contact the admissions office for start dates and requirements.
• Apply early to secure your spot.

The sooner you finish training and certification, the sooner you can start working with patients and building your healthcare career.

Sources:

[¹] Bureau of Labor Statistics - Nursing Assistants and Orderlies
[²] Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services - Nurse Aide Registry

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