Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Virginia

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.

Becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is one of the most direct ways to start helping patients in a clinical setting in Virginia. Training is short, the skills are in demand, and you can qualify for work in hospitals, rehab centers, and clinics once certified.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A PCT supports nurses and doctors with hands-on patient care. Typical duties include:

  • Taking vital signs
  • Assisting with mobility and daily activities
  • Drawing blood and collecting specimens
  • Performing EKGs
  • Monitoring patients during treatment
  • Documenting patient information accurately

Programs combine classroom instruction with clinical rotations so you can work safely and efficiently under supervision.

Virginia Requirements for PCTs

There's no separate state license just for Patient Care Technicians in Virginia. Employers generally look for:

  1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) status from a Virginia Board of Nursing-approved program.
  2. EKG and phlebotomy training.
  3. A recognized national certification such as the NHA's Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A).

The Virginia Board of Nursing requires all CNAs to complete a state-approved nurse aide education program and pass the NNAAP exam before being listed in the Nurse Aide Registry. 1

Many PCT programs build CNA training into the curriculum so you meet this requirement.

How to Choose a PCT Program in Virginia

Look for schools that offer:

  • Accreditation and state approval
  • CNA instruction if you don't already have certification
  • A curriculum covering phlebotomy and EKG
  • Supervised clinical training in real healthcare facilities
  • Certification exam prep for CPCT/A or similar
  • Job placement help

Flexible class times help if you need to keep working while training.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Virginia

Here are respected options in the state. Confirm details directly with each school before applying.

School Location(s) Program Length CNA Included Certification Prep
Centura College Norfolk, Newport News ~9 months Yes NHA CPCT/A
Eastern Virginia Career College Fredericksburg ~8 months Yes CNA, EKG, Phlebotomy
Valley Career & Technical Center Fishersville Varies Yes CNA + PCT skills
Ultimate Health School Manassas ~7 months Yes CNA, CPCT/A
Fortis College Norfolk ~9 months Yes CNA, EKG, Phlebotomy

Centura College

Blends CNA instruction with EKG, phlebotomy, and patient care skills. Includes certification test prep and job search support.

Eastern Virginia Career College

Offers a hands-on program covering multiple certifications, making graduates more versatile.

Valley Career & Technical Center

Ideal for Shenandoah Valley students seeking a smaller, local program with direct clinical exposure.

Ultimate Health School

Caters to working adults with evening and weekend schedules. Covers CNA and PCT scope.

Fortis College

Comprehensive program with strong employer connections in the Hampton Roads area.

Steps to Become a PCT in Virginia

Follow this common path:

  1. Complete a Virginia-approved CNA program.
  2. Pass the NNAAP exam and get listed on the state Nurse Aide Registry.
  3. Enroll in PCT training that includes EKG and phlebotomy.
  4. Finish required clinical hours in a healthcare facility.
  5. Pass a national certification exam like the NHA CPCT/A.
  6. Apply for patient care positions.

Training Time Breakdown

Combined PCT programs generally range from 7 to 12 months. If you do each step separately:

Training Component Typical Duration
CNA 4-8 weeks
EKG & Phlebotomy 4-12 weeks
PCT Skills & Clinical 3-6 months

Why National Certification Matters

Even without a state license, national credentials show:

  • Proof of formal training
  • Passing a standardized exam
  • Commitment to professional standards

Certification gives you more job options and shows employers you're ready to work.

Key Questions to Ask a School

Before enrolling, speak with admissions and ask:

  • Is your CNA portion state-approved?
  • How many clinical hours are included?
  • What's your CPCT/A pass rate?
  • Do you assist with job placement?
  • Can I take classes part-time?

Tip: A program that bundles CNA, EKG, and phlebotomy training is the most efficient route for new students.

Next Steps

Make a shortlist of schools near you. Compare schedules, costs, and graduation outcomes. Book a campus tour to see labs and meet instructors. Starting your training at a well-structured PCT school in Virginia is the fastest way to enter the healthcare field ready to make a difference.

  1. Virginia Board of Nursing - Nurse Aide Education Programs. https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing/ ↩

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.