An advanced or graduate diploma in cardiac nursing generally requires 12 months of full-time study. Some schools may divide the program into a two-year program for part-time students.
Core courses center on practice in cardiac nursing. Students study pathophysiology, cardiac physiology, arrhythmia interpretation, respiratory failure and oxygen therapy. They learn the importance of diagnosis, monitoring and patient management, as well as study ethics and professional protocol, among other topics. Finally, advanced coursework in cardiac catheterization rounds out the course of study.
Advanced study and specialization in cardiac nursing provides nurses with the ability to focus their practice in the field of cardiology. Nurses may find greater salary and career opportunities due to the increased education.
Attaining an advanced diploma enables the graduate to matriculate into a master of science in nursing program. Completion of an MSN program allows the nurse to register as a nurse practitioner.
A nurse must hold a bachelor of science in nursing and a valid registered nurse license in order to enroll in an advanced diploma program.