Anderson Cardiology Tech Graduates’ Certification Scores Consistently Exceed 80% – Here’s How.

In April 2022, we had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Anderson’s Cardiology Technologist (CT) Program Chair, Heather Peart, and she gave insight into all a prospective student would want to know about this dynamic, accredited program. We were amazed by her vision and expertise offered then, and now we see the results of her focus, student-centred approach and the way she upholds, and drives, what makes Anderson College truly exceptional.

This specific interview hones in on celebrating the consistent 80%+ pass rate of Anderson College’s CT graduates challenging the Canadian Society of Cardiology Technologists (CSCT) certification exams. This is not a fluke but a formula; one that students deserve, and Anderson is determined and honoured to offer.

The heartbeat of all we do is focused on ensuring all Anderson College graduates are skilled, confident and in demand. Heather Peart, and her team, work diligently to bring this about in Cardio Tech. Here’s how.

Tell Us About These Amazing CSCT Certification Pass Rates Heather?

“It’s terrific; our pass rate has consistently remained in the high 80s. We average them from the beginning of when we started the program, and we’ve even had two times where we’ve had 100%. So, of course we’re proud that our students do very well in regard to the national exam.

“We calculate an average based on our students’ results and, honestly, we’re thrilled that they consistently perform above that average. I mean, we actually have those that hit 100%, so we must be doing something right?

“It’s worth noting that we began tracking in about 2015, and the first exams, I believe, were in 2017 or 2018. I came from another organization, and the reason they brought me in was because the pass rate at that time was low, around 30%. But even counting that first intake of students who had a challenging time with their exams, we still achieved an overall average pass rate of 82%.

“I’m grateful I had the prior experience and was able to work with the team to turn it around. When you come from an organization where you’ve fixed such a problem and then start something new and are able to avoid encountering such a problem, it’s quite amazing.”

How do Students Prepare to Pass the CSCT Certification Exams?

“Really, it starts from day one, and by “day one” I mean the day the student begins with us. The program is set up in a way that promotes continuous learning, and is very repetitive, to promote deeper learning. Once the students get engrossed in the program, they realize how important it is to continue to build on what they know and retain it. So, it’s not so much about rote memorization, you have to understand it. The minute you understand it, it makes a difference. Because when you actually go to write a national exam, you understand it, so it doesn’t matter what question they’re going to throw at you, you’ll do well.

“We start students out this way and then they are in contact with me once a week. They have assignments over the four months that they have to hand in and this also reinforces what they’ve learned. For each section, for each month, there are usually five questions students have to answer. This also reinforces learning. We have a database of questions, so when the students are finished with their practicum and getting ready to take the exam, there’s testing. They can go in and do it as many times as possible. There are over 400 questions that they can answer, and we update these questions. We believe these questions are the kind of questions students will encounter on the CSCT exam. And probably, I always say to students, if you do the testing on the platform that we provide, you can do it a couple of times, three times, but the minute you can pass it, you are passing the CSCT exam.”

What Does Anderson College do to Fuel Student Success?

“The program itself is all about hands-on learning. We are committed to ensuring everyone succeeds. So, if we notice someone struggling, we make sure to quiz them more to understand what’s going on. We never leave anyone behind. Not everyone is at the same level, but we meet students where they’re at and gradually help them progress to a higher level. It’s easier to do it in small classes where we have a personal relationship with our students. When you have that connection with your students, they realize you’re invested in their success. They don’t want to let you down, seeing how much effort you’re putting into helping them succeed. So, I believe it’s a collaborative effort between students and teachers. We give back to the students by making sure they’re comfortable with their learning, gradually guiding them to success.”

How is Anderson College Different?

“Students from other programs who come into our program do so because they want something more hands-on, firstly. They also desire a one-on-one experience in smaller classrooms. Some really appreciate the modular approach. Instead of just presenting a section of learning without relevance, we use modules. So, when you study a module, you’re going to learn what’s relevant to that module, and then you gradually build on that. Sometimes, it’s about a student’s preferred learning style, and we offer that. We provide small classrooms, hands-on learning, and more one-on-one teaching. This fosters a family-oriented atmosphere. We encourage a sense of community among students so they can help each other learn. So, we’re different in that way. It’s more like a family unit than anything else.”

How Will Certification Help a Graduate as They Launch Their Career?

“Graduates need to understand that everyone asks you for your CSCT certification. If you happen to get into a clinic that wants you but don’t really see a need for the CSCT certification, it’s very rare. You cannot get into any hospital or anything like that. When we send students out on practicum, those partners have hired students with the understanding that the student will get a CSCT certification. CSCT certification is what Anderson College’s Cardiology Technologist program prepares you for and with the training, skills and preparation you receive you will be more than ready to face that challenge when it comes.”

What Advice Would You Give Students Preparing to Pass the Exam?

“I always say to students, even if you are two or three months out from writing the certification exam, put in an hour a day. If you give yourself an hour a day of going over your notes, and create a habit, then you will pass the exam. I think most students actually do that. You cannot study at the last minute, it doesn’t work, because this is a language, and you have to learn it. So, if you apply everything you’ve learned in class, plus you keep the information fresh by looking at it again and again, that’s one of the biggest pieces of advice I give them.”

We are thrilled to have Heather’s insight when it comes to both the program and the process for certification and commend her for creating a learning environment that supports successful CSCT certification exam completion … leading to a thriving career as a Cardiology Technologist.

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If you’re still considering whether this career path is for you, take the “Cardiology Technologist Career Discovery Quiz”.

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