Program Overview

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Introduction to the Master in Cardiovascular Perfusion Science Program

The Master in Cardiovascular Perfusion Science program at Emory University is designed to train perfusionists to perform as key members of the healthcare team. Perfusionists have the responsibility of operating cardiopulmonary bypass and other life-sustaining mechanical devices for a variety of surgical and medical conditions.

Overview of the Program

The program is a 5-semester, 65.5 credit hour, full-time only program that requires continuous semester enrollment. It is designed for bachelor's prepared individuals seeking to develop knowledge and skill in this biological and technological discipline, with the goal of applying this knowledge to provide exceptional perfusion care to patients, families, and organizations.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes coursework in cardiovascular perfusion, as well as clinical training in operating cardiopulmonary bypass and other life-sustaining mechanical devices.

Physical Sciences

• General Biology with lab
• Anatomy & Physiology I & II with labs (8 semester hours minimum)
• Chemistry 2 courses – Organic and Inorganic with lab (8 semester hours minimum)
• Microbiology with lab (4 semester hours)
• Physics with lab

Math

• Introductory Statistics (3 semester hours)
• College mathematics course – College Algebra, Calculus

Medical Terminology

*Students may request an exemption for this course if they have a degree in a healthcare field or have clinical practice experience.

Admission Requirements

Applicants are required to meet the following admission and prerequisite requirements:

Admission Requirements

• BA or BS degree in a science or health-related discipline from an accredited university/college.
• Cumulative GPA 3.0 on a scale of 4.0
• Science GPA 3.0
• Completion of all prerequisite courses
• Shadowing experiences are recommended

Prerequisite Requirements

The prerequisites for the Cardiovascular Perfusion Science Program include seven (7) physical science and math courses completed within 7 years of the application. An additional course in medical terminology is required if the applicant does not have a healthcare background.

Application

The application process includes:

• Application for Admission
• $50 Application Fee
• Official transcripts from each school attended
• Resume
• Three (3) professional recommendations
• Students with international nursing degrees must provide an evaluation from Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) for previous nursing coursework.
• Students with international transcripts for non-nursing degrees must provide an evaluation from World Education Services (WES) for previous non-nursing coursework.
• TOEFL, IELTS, or Duo-lingo scores are required if English is a second language.

FAQ

What does a cardiovascular perfusionist do?

A cardiovascular perfusionist is responsible for operating cardiopulmonary bypass or support machines and monitoring patients that are receiving this type of support, often for the temporary replacement of heart and/or lung function.

Are Perfusionists in demand? Salaries?

As the field of mechanical cardiovascular support grows, so has the need for perfusionists grown. Salaries typically vary by level of education, additional skills, years of experience, and geographic region.

How long is the program?

The CV Perfusion Program is a 5 semester, 65.5 credit hour, full-time only program that requires continuous semester enrollment.

What are the requirements to apply?

Applicants are required to meet admission and prerequisite requirements.

What prerequisites are required, and do I need official transcripts?

The prerequisites for the CV Perfusion program include seven (7) physical science and math courses completed within 7 years of the application. An additional course in medical terminology is required if the applicant does not have a healthcare background.

Am I eligible for the program if I have never worked in a healthcare setting?

Applicants who meet the admission requirements but do not have a background in healthcare may apply. Preferred candidates have at least one (1) year of full-time experience as a: nurse/critical care nurse ICU, CCU, ED, OR; physician assistants; respiratory therapist; ECMO technologist; cardiac rehabilitation physiologist; cardiac diagnostic laboratory technologist; or perfusion assistant.

Is shadowing a perfusionist required?

While we do not require, we strongly recommend the applicant arrange to shadow a perfusionist and recommend 8-16 hours of observation- varied cases.

How many students are you accepting for the program?

We will enroll 15-20 full-time students.

How is the program delivered?

During semesters 1 and 2, classes meet face-to-face on campus, and during semesters 3, 4, and 5, selected classes are offered online asynchronously with optional synchronous sessions.

Is there sufficient equipment and supplies for simulation training?

The Emory Nursing Learning Center (ENLC) located in Decatur, GA includes high-fidelity simulation equipment and software to support simulated learning experiences.

What about clinical sites. Will I need to travel?

Students must be prepared to travel outside the Atlanta-Metro region and the state of Georgia, to ensure timely accrual of required clinical cases.

Is the program accredited?

The Emory University Master in Cardiovascular Perfusion Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Committee – Perfusion Education.

What is the tuition? Am I eligible for federal aid programs or scholarships?

Tuition is $1625/credit hours. A $600 perfusion simulation lab technology fee is charged each semester. Admitted students may apply for federal financial aid as a graduate student to receive need-based aid.

What degree will I earn?

Graduates will hold a Masters in Cardiovascular Perfusion Science (MCPS) degree and be board-eligible to take the certification examination through the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP).

Can international students apply?

Admission is not available for international applicants.