Best Patient Care Technician Schools in New Hampshire

If you want to work directly with patients and help them every day, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a solid choice. In New Hampshire, PCTs are widely needed in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings. The fastest way to start is by completing an approved training program.

Here’s what you need to know to choose the best Patient Care Technician school in New Hampshire and meet the state’s training requirements.

What a Patient Care Technician does

A PCT works alongside nurses and doctors to provide direct patient care. Duties often include:

  • Taking vital signs
  • Helping patients with daily activities
  • Drawing blood and collecting lab samples (phlebotomy)
  • Carrying out EKGs
  • Assisting with medical procedures under supervision
  • Maintaining patient records

These skills make PCTs valuable in many healthcare environments, especially where patient interaction is high.

Training and Certification Basics in New Hampshire

New Hampshire does not license Patient Care Technicians as a separate profession. Most employers require PCTs to have training as a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) plus additional skills in EKG and phlebotomy.

New Hampshire Board of Nursing requires LNAs to complete a state-approved nursing assistant training program and pass the competency exam.

That means most PCT programs here combine core nursing assistant training with extra modules, so you graduate ready for multiple roles.

Typical requirements before applying:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Background. Check
  • Proof of required vaccinations
  • Minimum age of 18 for most. Programs

Best Patient Care Technician schools in New Hampshire

Here are some of the top options for training in the state. Each program offers a mix of classroom, lab, and clinical instruction.

#1

Manchester Community College

Manchester, CT In-state option

Located in Manchester, CT Manchester Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include career-aligned certificates and diplomas.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

River Valley Community College

Claremont, NH In-state option

Located in Claremont, NH River Valley Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Systems. The campus serves roughly 610 learners.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $6,940
  • Out-of-state tuition: $15,190
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

White Mountains Community College

Berlin, NH In-state option

Located in Berlin, NH White Mountains Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Criminal Justice. The campus serves roughly 430 learners.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $7,050
  • Out-of-state tuition: $15,300
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Tip: Not all schools list “Patient Care Technician” as the program name. Look for combined LNA, phlebotomy, and EKG training when searching.

How to choose the right program

When comparing New Hampshire PCT schools, focus on:

  1. State approval: Make sure the nursing assistant portion is approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.
  2. Extra certifications: Look for programs with phlebotomy and EKG training included.
  3. Clinical hours: Choose a school that provides hands-on training in real patient care settings.
  4. Schedule flexibility: Consider evening or weekend classes if you are working.
  5. career services assistance: Some programs connect graduates with employers.

Steps to become a Patient Care Technician in New Hampshire

  1. Complete an approved LNA training program (at least 60 hours classroom + 40 hours clinical as required in New Hampshire).
  2. Pass the LNA competency exam through the state’s designated testing provider.
  3. Add specialized training like phlebotomy and EKG monitoring if not included in your LNA program.
  4. Apply for LNA licensing with the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.
  5. Seek PCT positions in hospitals, nursing facilities, or outpatient clinics.

For the most up-to-date LNA requirements, visit the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.

Where patient care technicians work

In New Hampshire, PCTs work in:

  • Hospitals
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Assisted living
  • Home healthcare agencies
  • Dialysis centers

Because you’ll have skills that overlap with multiple roles, your job prospects extend into many healthcare settings.

Program cost and time frame

Training times and costs vary widely depending on the school. Some short programs finish in 6-8 weeks, while others take one semester or longer, especially if they include multiple certifications.

Average time to completion:

Program TypeTypical Duration
Standalone LNA program6-8 weeks
PCT with LNA + phlebotomy + EKG1 semester
Degree or diploma with PCT focus1 year

Remember to factor in exam fees, application fees, uniforms, and any required books.

Why start in New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s healthcare sector is growing, and skilled patient care staff are needed in every county. Training locally means:

  • You meet state-specific competency standards.
  • You connect with local. Employers during your clinicals.
  • You can apply for roles upon completion in an in-demand role.

Final Advice

Becoming a Patient Care Technician in New Hampshire is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Find a state-approved LNA program that includes or allows you to add phlebotomy and EKG training. The combination of these skills will make you a strong candidate for many jobs.

Here’s what you should do next:

  • Research and. Compare New Hampshire PCT programs using the list above.
  • Confirm state approval for the nursing assistant portion.
  • Ask. Schools about clinical sites and employment outcomes (verify with the school).
  • Enroll and. Complete your training.
  • Pass the competency exam, secure your LNA license, and. Start applying for PCT roles.

Local training means you’ll build practical skills faster, with the skills New Hampshire employers are looking for. If you want hands-on healthcare work and enjoy helping people, this path is worth taking.

Sources:

Learn more about this career, including national salary data and certification paths, in our How to Become a Patient Care Technician (PCT) career guide.