Pursue your associate's or bachelor's degree with a registered online vascular technology education. Most VT positions will require at least an associate's degree, though some students opt to complete their bachelor's to better their chances of securing a position. There are several online alternatives available with regionally and nationally recognized schools. Some of the options are Kaplan, DeVry, Penn Foster College, South University and Keiser University-Campus Online. As with any online educational opportunity, the flexibility offered by online study often works well for career changers and those returning to school. With online options, make certain the schools are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Professionals (CAAHP), the group that provides accreditation of vascular technology programs to ensure adherence to professional certification requirements.
Obtain your vascular technology degree, either associate's or bachelor's, by attending a trade school in your area. As with an online or traditional university, a high school diploma or equivalent is a prerequisite to pursue a degree. Many trade schools provide the option of either degree, depending on your educational requirements, financial situation and other considerations. Some of the regional and national trade schools that offer vascular technology education options are Sanford-Brown, Grand Canyon University, DeVry, Colorado Technical University and Virginia College.
Opt for a traditional university or college for completing your education in your area. Many community colleges offer associate's degree options, as well as four-year schools that provide bachelor's degree programs. Some of the better known four-year programs are Gwynedd-Mercy College, Louisiana State University, University of South Carolina, Edison State College and Oregon Institute of Technology. Community college programs are available as well at Orange Coast College, Houston Community College, Polk State College and Tulsa Community College.
Advance your career as a vascular technologist by pursuing the Registered Vascular Technician (RVT) credential from The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). Both certifications require successfully passing a fairly lengthy exam, each several hours long, that will attest to the skills and knowledge of the VT. Many hospitals and clinics prefer vascular technicians with one of these certifications, though it appears the RVT from ARDMS may be considered the industry standard. Even if a certification is not a requirement, these can differentiate you from other potential job candidates.