Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Pennsylvania

Updated August 13, 2025

Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources. Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.

If you're looking to become a Patient Care Technician in Pennsylvania, the right training program can make all the difference. You need a school that's accredited, prepares you for certification, and offers hands-on clinical experience. In this guide, we'll walk through some of the best Patient Care Technician (PCT) programs in Pennsylvania so you can choose the one that fits your goals.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A Patient Care Technician works closely with nurses and doctors to care for patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. Tasks can include:

  • Taking vital signs
  • Assisting with medical procedures
  • Helping patients with mobility and daily activities
  • Collecting lab specimens
  • Performing EKGs and phlebotomy

In Pennsylvania, most employers require you to be Certified as a Patient Care Technician or Nursing Assistant to get hired.

Note: Certification requirements can vary by employer. Always check job postings in your area before enrolling in any program.

Pennsylvania Requirements for Patient Care Technicians

Pennsylvania does not license Patient Care Technicians at the state level. However, to work in many facilities you will need:

  1. Completion of an accredited training program
  2. Certification in CPR and Basic Life Support
  3. Passing the CPCT-A exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or a similar industry certification
  4. A completed background check and up-to-date immunizations

How to Choose the Right Training Program

When comparing schools, look at:

  • Accreditation: Make sure the school is recognized by the appropriate accrediting body.
  • Program Length: Most programs run between 3 and 8 months.
  • Hands-on Training: Clinical work is essential for preparing you for the job.
  • Certification Prep: A good program will prepare you for the NHA CPCT-A exam or equivalent.
  • Job Placement Support: Schools with employer partnerships can help you get hired faster.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Pennsylvania

Here are some of the top schools in the state offering PCT training:

School Name Location Program Length Certification Prep Included
Pennsylvania Institute of Technology Media, PA 6 months Yes
Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) Multiple campuses 6-8 months Yes
Community College of Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA 5-6 months Yes
Northampton Community College Bethlehem, PA 6 months Yes
McCann School of Business & Technology Lewisburg & Monroe County 9 months Yes
Lackawanna College Scranton, PA 8 months Yes

Pennsylvania Institute of Technology (PIT)

Offers a comprehensive PCT program with training in EKG, phlebotomy, and advanced patient care skills. Includes externships at partner hospitals.

Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC)

Covers CNA training, phlebotomy, and EKG skills. Flexible scheduling available, plus job placement assistance.

Community College of Philadelphia

Focuses on technical skills and patient interaction. Prepares you for multiple certifications.

Northampton Community College

Includes clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities. Offers strong ties to area employers.

McCann School of Business & Technology

Full-scope PCT program with added instruction in medical assisting tasks.

Lackawanna College

Blends classroom instruction with clinical practice. Includes career readiness training.

Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Pennsylvania

  1. Research programs in your area using the list above.
  2. Apply to an accredited school that includes certification prep.
  3. Complete all coursework and hands-on clinical hours.
  4. Pass your certification exam such as the NHA CPCT-A.
  5. Maintain certifications as required (often every 2 years).
  6. Apply for jobs in hospitals, rehab centers, or long-term care facilities.

Certification Exams to Know

The most common certification for PCTs is the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) from the NHA. Some employers also accept:

  • Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)
  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
  • Certified EKG Technician (CET)

Tip: Having multiple certifications can make you more competitive in the job market.

Cost and Financial Aid

Program costs vary widely. Community colleges tend to be more affordable than private schools. Many programs accept federal financial aid if you qualify, and some employers offer tuition reimbursement for healthcare training.

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare support roles continue to grow faster than the average for all occupations1. In Pennsylvania, demand is strong in both rural and urban areas due to the aging population and the need for skilled patient care workers.

Final Advice

If you're ready to start working in healthcare, a Patient Care Technician program in Pennsylvania can get you there in under a year. Focus on accredited schools with strong clinical partnerships and exam prep. Talk to admissions, ask about pass rates for the certification exam, and don't overlook community college options for affordability.

Your next step is simple: pick two or three schools from this list and contact them today. Ask when their next class starts, and what you need to apply. The sooner you start, the sooner you can be working in patient care.

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Healthcare Support Occupations, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/ ↩

Explore Related Topics:

Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.