Polysomnographic technicians hold entry-level positions in the field, while technologists have greater responsibility and may supervise other workers. Programs in polysomnography are typically found at community colleges and technical schools.
10 Schools with Polysomnography Programs
These schools offer programs in polysomnography:
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alvin Community College | Alvin, TX | 2-year, Public | Associate, Certificate | $1,680 in-district, $2,784 in-state, $3,936 out-of-state |
| Southeastern Community College | Whiteville, NC | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $2,595 in-state, $8,739 out-of-state |
| GateWay Community College | New Haven, CT | 2-year, Public | Associate, Certificate | $4,424 in-state, $13,192 out-of-state |
| Cuyahoga Community College | Cleveland, OH | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $3,436 in-district, $4,322 in-state, $8,136 out-of-state |
| Catawba Valley Community College | Hickory, NC | 2-year, Public | Associate | $2,347 in-state, $7,723 out-of-state |
| Pitt Community College | Winterville, NC | 2-year, Public | Associate, Certificate | $1,930 in-state, $6,538 out-of-state |
| Linn-Benton Community College | Albany, OR | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $4,922 in-state, $10,991 out-of-state |
| Minneapolis Community and Technical College | Minneapolis, MN | 2-year, Public | Associate | $5,396 |
| Roane State Community College | Harriman, TN | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $4,443 in-state, $17,349 out-of-state |
| Hudson Valley Community College | Troy, NY | 2-year, Public | Associate | $5,812 in-state, $13,087 out-of-state |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics
School Selection Criteria
Here are some important considerations for students choosing between polysomnography programs:
- Students should make sure they meet the minimum admission requirements of the schools they consider. Some polysomnography certificate programs are designed for people who already hold undergraduate degrees but want to redirect their careers toward the field.
- It is important for students to consider their educational and career goals when choosing between programs. For instance, certificate programs, which are shorter and more vocationally oriented than are associate's degree programs, may appeal to students interested in entering the workforce quickly.
- Distance education opportunities, such as online or hybrid programs, could appeal to students currently working as health professionals.
- Schools with extensive clinical facilities may offer students more observational and hands-on experience opportunities.
Certificate in Polysomnographic Technology
Certificate programs for aspiring polysomnographic technologists and technicians are available for students with no prior health care experience. Clinical experiences are typically mandatory. Programs can usually be completed within a year.
Certificate in Polysomnographic Technology for Health Care Professionals
Those who already work in other health care fields can pursue polysomnography certificate programs designed for credentialed professionals. Such programs do not cover basic medical terminology and patient care techniques, but include clinical training and lecture-based coursework.
Associate of Science in Polysomnographic Technology
Associate degree programs for aspiring polysomnographic technologists and technicians are 2-year programs that include general education requirements and clinical experiences. The curriculum may include more specialization in certain areas than certificate programs do, such as respiratory care or infant or pediatric polysomnography.
Certificate and associate's degree programs can train students to become polysomnographic technologists or technicians. They often include hands-on training, but some courses may be offered online.
