The major courses that are necessary for a diploma in cardiology include anatomy and physiology, echocardiography and cardiac pharmacology. Anatomy and physiology covers topics that include blood, tissues and the nervous system. These courses are important for students to learn how to identify the blood and lymph system and major organs in the body.
Echocardiography is a sonogram of the heart; also known as a cardiac ultrasound. The purpose of an echocardiography is to analyze the heart valves and any abnormality between the left and right sides of the heart. An echocardiography can be used to diagnose heart diseases.
Cardiovascular pharmacology deals with drugs that modify the heart and vascular system. Cardiac pharmacology courses provide pertinent information to students about drugs used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Students pursuing a cardiology diploma or certificate, will be trained on various cardiovascular equipments. Some of the major medical devices covered in cardiology courses include, EKG or ECG machines and Holter monitor and recorder. An EKG or ECG machine is an electrocardiogram device that is used to measure the electrical activity of the heart. A Holter monitor or recorder is usually worn for 24 to 48 hours to continuously record the heart's rhythm. Students learn how to interpret results, apply settings to the device and explain instructions to patients.
Corexcel, a training and continuation education organization, offers online courses in cardiology. Corexcel offers an online certificate course in anatomy and physiology. The course is accredited for continuing education units that can be converted to college credits. Also offered is a clinical electrocardiography (ECG) course, that provides 1.7 continuing education units. The course provides interactive animation that educates students on various ECG areas such as atrial and ventricular hypertrophy and pulmonary embolism. The objective for students is to learn basic ECG principles and understand common and complex ECG abnormalities.
The Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) offers a certificate program in cardiology technology. The program curriculum includes courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, electrocardiogram and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The institution has several campuses throughout central Pennsylvania. HACC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The Star Career Academy also operates campuses at multiple locations. Candidates can train to become a cardiology technician at several campuses in Northern New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Course selections include cardiac pharmacology, vital signs, human anatomy and physiology. The academy is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology.