Program Overview

Patient Care Technician

Career Pathway

Healthcare

Related Programs

Phlebotomy Technician

Faculty Contact

Toni Peterson

Program

FastForward Credential Program

Program Information

The Patient Care Technician course provides students with the essential skills and knowledge required to deliver high-quality care in various healthcare settings. Covering topics such as patient monitoring, basic medical procedures, and effective communication, the course emphasizes both clinical skills and compassionate patient interaction. Students will engage in hands-on training and simulations to develop proficiency in tasks such as vital sign measurement, specimen collection, and assisting with daily living activities. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to support healthcare teams and provide compassionate care to diverse patient populations.

Admission Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
• Meet minimum essential functions and standards for program.
• Attend a coaching appointment and/or information session prior to enrollment.
• Complete all funding assistance paperwork (if applicable) prior to enrollment.
• Documentation of high school diploma, GED or equivalent, or college degree. Note: If high school diploma or college degree are earned outside of the United States, the diploma or degree must be formally evaluated (and translated if needed) by an approved agency prior to program admission. Allow a minimum of three weeks for evaluation/translation process. Prospective students will be responsible for cost.
• English Language Learners (ELL/ESL): If English is not the first language, prospective students must complete a CASAS assessment with acceptable score prior to program admission. CASAS assessments can be scheduled by emailing or calling . Include your first and last name, program of interest, and program start date in your email. Assessment should be completed at least one week prior to program start date. CASAS assessment is also recommended, but not required, for prospective students who feel their reading comprehension needs improvement.

Employment Outlook for Patient Care Technician

Graduates who have achieved certification upon completion of this program have found employment in hospitals, physician's offices, outpatient clinics and home healthcare providers. Top employers of patient care technicians in our community who visit our program to meet students, and employ our graduates include:

• UVA Health
• Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital

The role of patient care technician is estimated to grow 16 percent between now and 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Earning Potential for Patient Care Technician

The median wage for patient care technicians is $33,530 per year - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.