How to Take Online Electrocardiography Classes

An electrocardiogram, otherwise known as an EKG or ECG, is a medical test that monitors the electrical activity in a patient's heart. Taking courses in electrocardiography can help to further your medical education and place you on the road to becoming an ECG technician. Courses are designed to give you instruction on testing procedures, operation of EKG machines and help you to identify normal and abnormal heart patterns. Online courses offer flexible schedules, increased availability (no geographic limitations) and the ability to learn at your own pace.

Instructions

• 1

  Check with human resources at your place of employment. Some employers will pay for or reimburse you for continuing education. If you have this benefit, you definitely want to go through the proper channels and take advantage of it.

• 2

  Research potential schools online. Choose an accredited institution to be sure of getting quality instruction. Look beyond each school's homepage (designed to advertise their positive attributes). Check out any available statistics on graduation/completion rates, alumni employment and the current nature of the course materials. Also examine the amount of time that the institution has been in operation and the length of time that online study has been available (if it is a new program, it may have kinks). Compare the various programs that are available and choose a course structure that works for you.

• 3

  Familiarize yourself with the learning process and services available to you. Are professors available for you to live-chat with or have a conference? Will you have access to job placement services after you have completed the course? Knowing this ahead of time can help narrow down your choice of schools.

• 4

  Know the associated expenses ahead of time. What does your tuition cover? What other expenses might be incurred (such as technology fees, lab fees or your Internet access fees at home). Check to see if the school has financial aid, which could help to make your schooling more feasible.

• 5

  Learn the requirements for your online electrocardiography classes. Special materials or books may need to be purchased in advance. Know the amount of time that you need to invest each week and the length of the course. Being fully aware of what you must complete to earn your certification or degree is crucial to ensuring your success.