Cardiovascular Perfusionist

Cardiovascular perfusionists operate extracorporeal circulation equipment during medical procedures that require temporarily replacing a patient’s circulatory or respiratory function.

Though the perfusion profession is relatively small, with fewer than 4,500 practitioners in the United States, these experts are well-compensated, reflecting the high skill and expertise needed for their work. Here, we explore the education pathways available for aspiring cardiovascular perfusionists, including graduate certificate programs and master’s degrees, which provide the necessary knowledge and skills to operate heart-lung machines and other sophisticated equipment used during cardiac surgery. 

A cardiovascular perfusionist and a nurse anesthetist or anesthesiologist are both crucial members of a surgical team, but they have different roles and responsibilities. A cardiovascular perfusionist operates the heart-lung machine, which takes over the function of the patient’s heart and lungs during cardiac surgery. On the other hand, an anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in providing anesthesia to patients before, during, and after surgery. While both roles are critical for successful surgeries, anesthesiologists have broader medical training and responsibilities compared to perfusionists.

The role of a cardiovascular perfusionist requires technical expertise, quick decision-making skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. Read on for a comprehensive guide to what is needed to begin this in-demand, highly technical career.

There are three degree types available to become a cardiovascular perfusionist: 

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Cardiovascular Perfusion: This is a four-year undergraduate program that provides foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, and physics, along with specific instruction in cardiovascular perfusion. It prepares students for entry-level positions and further specialization at the graduate level.
2. Post-Bachelor’s Certificate in Cardiovascular Perfusion: These 12-18-month programs are designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to specialize in the operation of heart-lung machines and other equipment used during cardiac surgery.
3. Master’s Degree in Cardiovascular Perfusion: This two-year advanced degree typically takes two years to complete and delves deeper into the science and practice of perfusion. It often includes extensive clinical training.

Admissions requirements for cardiovascular perfusionist programs vary slightly from institution to institution. Still, they generally aim to ensure that applicants have a solid foundation in the sciences and the academic capability to succeed in a rigorous program of study. A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university is typically required, along with a minimum cumulative GPA, often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Common admission requirements for cardiovascular perfusionist programs include:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
• Minimum cumulative GPA (often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale)
• Completion of prerequisite courses, which may include general biology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, human anatomy with lab, human physiology with lab, and at least one semester of inorganic chemistry
• Personal statement
• Submission of unofficial transcripts
• Some programs also recommend or require some form of clinical and research experience

These requirements help to ensure that students have the necessary background and skills to complete the program and perform well in their future roles as cardiovascular perfusionists.

Cardiovascular perfusion programs are accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) through the Accreditation Committee – Perfusion Education (AC-PE). Accreditation ensures that these graduate-level certificate and degree programs meet rigorous educational and professional standards, preparing students for future healthcare roles. The CAAHEP currently accredits 19 U.S. cardiovascular perfusion programs. 

These programs aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills to operate the heart-lung machine and other related technologies during cardiac surgery and organ transplantation. Upon completing the program, graduates can sit for the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) certification examination.

Some online and hybrid programs do not hold CAAHEP accreditation but are accredited at the institutional level by a regional organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Before enrolling in a program, it is important to check state employment requirements.

Cleveland Clinic – Certificate in Cardiovascular Perfusion

The Cleveland Clinic offers a Cardiovascular Perfusion program designed to train students in the science of extracorporeal circulation. This 17-month, full-time program combines rigorous academic coursework with clinical rotations at the Cleveland Clinic, one of the top heart hospitals in the United States. The curriculum covers topics such as physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, surgical techniques, the heart-lung machine’s operation, and other technologies used during cardiac surgery and organ transplantation. 

The program emphasizes hands-on training, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. Upon completing the program, graduates can sit for the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) certification examination.

• Location: Cleveland, OH
• Duration: 17 months
• Accreditation: Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

Medical University of South Carolina – Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion

The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) offers two tracks: an entry-level Master of Health Science and a Post-Professional Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion program. The former is designed for first-time students, while the latter is for current cardiovascular perfusionists with a bachelor’s degree and accredited postgraduate training. 

Both are 24-month, full-time programs that equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become proficient cardiovascular perfusionists. The curriculum includes comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and surgical techniques, as well as extensive clinical rotations at top-tier hospitals. Students are trained in operating the heart-lung machine, extracorporeal circulation, and other technologies used during cardiac surgery and organ transplantation. Upon completing the program, graduates can sit for the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) certification examination.

• Location: Charleston, SC
• Duration: 24 months
• Accreditation: Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

Quinnipiac University – Master of Health Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion

The Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University offers a Master of Health Science (MHS) in Cardiovascular Perfusion program. This 27-month, full-time program is designed to train students to become proficient cardiovascular perfusionists. The curriculum includes comprehensive coursework, laboratory work, and extensive clinical rotations that provide hands-on experience. Students are trained in operating the heart-lung machine, ventricular assist devices, and other equipment used during cardiac surgery and organ transplantation procedures. 

The program also emphasizes research, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. The MHS in Cardiovascular Perfusion program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) certification examination.

• Location: Hamden, CT
• Duration: 24 months
• Accreditation: Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

UT Health Houston – McGovern Medical School – Certificate in Cardiovascular Perfusion

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) offers a Certificate in Cardiovascular Perfusion program through the McGovern Medical School. This comprehensive program is designed to prepare students for the dynamic field of perfusion, which involves using heart-lung machines and other technologies during surgeries. The 12-month-long program combines classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experience. The curriculum includes courses on anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and surgical techniques. 

This certificate program also emphasizes research and evidence-based practice, with students required to complete a research project. Upon completing the program, graduates are eligible to take the certification examination offered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion. 

• Location: Houston, TX
• Duration: 12 months
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

University of Utah School of Medicine – Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion

The Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion (CVP) at the University of Utah is a comprehensive program that prepares students with the essential knowledge, skills, and expertise required to become licensed cardiovascular perfusionists. Housed in the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery in the School of Medicine, the Utah State Higher Education recognizes the CVP program. The curriculum includes master’s level anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, perfusion technology, laboratory, research methods, and a master’s project. 

This 24-month (six-semester) post-baccalaureate degree begins with three semesters (48 credit hours) of full-time didactic and laboratory education, followed by three semesters (34 credit hours) of clinical rotations under the direct supervision of a preceptor at top hospitals throughout the United States. Graduates are equipped to handle the responsibilities of a perfusionist, including running the heart-lung (cardiopulmonary bypass) machine, maintaining blood flow to the body’s tissues, regulating levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, and administering medicines through the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit. 

• Location: Salt Lake City, UT
• Duration: 24 months
• Accreditation: Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

Carlow University – BS/MS Cardiovascular Perfusionist

Carlow University offers a rigorous and comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion program and an Accelerated Track Master’s Degree in Cardiovascular Perfusion, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful cardiovascular perfusionists. This program is one of only a few undergraduate programs in the country that provides students with a path to this specialized healthcare field. The curriculum combines coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics with specific instruction in cardiovascular perfusion. It also includes a unique clinical component, allowing students to gain hands-on experience at top medical facilities. The program aims to prepare students for the certification examination from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.

• Location: Pittsburgh, PA
• Duration: Five years
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Thomas Jefferson University – Entry-level MS in Cardiovascular Perfusion

The cardiovascular perfusion program offered by Jefferson College of Health Professions at Thomas Jefferson University is a comprehensive course designed for individuals aiming to become proficient in cardiovascular perfusion. The course is an entry-level master of science degree program spanning 21 months, incorporating theoretical classroom instruction and applied clinical training. The curriculum covers various topics, including cardiopulmonary physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. Graduates from this program will be eligible to sit for the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion’s certification examination, opening doors to a rewarding career in healthcare.

• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Duration: 21 months
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Lawrence Technological University – Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion

The Cardiovascular Perfusion program at Lawrence Technological University is a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this specialized field. The curriculum aligns with the Master’s degree level standard set by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) Qualifications Framework. The program provides a deep understanding of critical thinking, scholarly research, problem-solving and analysis, communication, leadership, and professional capacity in cardiovascular perfusion. 

Upon completion and accreditation, students can write their board exams through the ABCP, which allows licensure and work eligibility nationwide (except Nevada, which requires additional licensure). 

• Location: Southfield, MI
• Duration: 24 months
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

University of Nebraska – Master of Perfusion Science (MPS) Degree Advancement Option (DAO)

The University of Nebraska Medical Center offers an online Master of Perfusion Science (MPS) Degree Advancement Option (DAO), designed for working perfusionists who have completed a CAAHEP-accredited perfusion program. This program allows students to advance their education and professional goals. The curriculum involves 20 total credits and can be completed part-time through distance education technology. 

Depending on the student’s course load, completing the program in four semesters is possible, although students are allowed up to three years. The program is designed to match the student’s clinical and educational background with their professional goals, with coursework and a thesis project developed with the program director.

• Location: Omaha, NE
• Duration: Two to three years
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) 

After high school, it takes approximately six years of education and experience to become a licensed and certified cardiovascular perfusionist.

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED (Four Years)

Aspiring cardiovascular perfusionists are encouraged to take four years of math and science courses to prepare them for college-level coursework. If available, human anatomy and physiology is a strong college-prep course option.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (Four Years)

Undergraduates interested in this career should ideally pursue a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field. Some popular choices are degrees in biology, anatomy, mathematics, and other sciences. A bachelor’s degree program with a concentration in cardiovascular perfusion is also an excellent choice for students who already know they want to pursue this career path. Another viable option is to earn a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or nursing. 

Step 3: Complete an Accredited Perfusion Technology Program or Equivalent (Two Years)

Completing an accredited perfusion technology program, also known as an approved program of extracorporeal technology, typically takes two years of full-time study at the graduate level. Upon completion, many graduates are prepared to sit for the certification examination from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.

Step 4: Earn Certification through the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (Timeline Varies)

Becoming certified through the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (AMBC) is a multi-step process that requires both education and practical experience. After completing an accredited perfusionist program, graduates must pass two national certification examinations – the Perfusion Basic Sciences Exam (PBSE) and the Clinical Applications in Perfusion Exam (CAPE).

To be eligible for the PBSE, graduates must have completed at least 75 procedures as primary perfusionists during their educational program. After passing the PBSE, graduates must perform an additional 50 procedures after their graduation date, usually while employed at a hospital, to be eligible for the Clinical Applications in Perfusion Examination (CAPE).

Once they pass both exams, they can become Certified Clinical Perfusionists (CCP). This process can take several years, depending on the length of the educational program and the time it takes to accumulate the required practical experience.

Cardiovascular perfusionists play a vital role in the surgical team during cardiac and thoracic surgeries. They operate heart-lung machines and other sophisticated equipment that take over the patient’s circulatory and respiratory functions during surgery.

Here’s a list of typical responsibilities for cardiovascular perfusionists:

• Operating the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgeries to maintain the patient’s circulation and oxygenation
• Monitoring the patient’s blood flow and oxygen levels, and making necessary adjustments to the equipment
• Administering medications and blood products through the heart-lung machine as directed by the surgeon
• Performing tests to measure blood coagulation
• Assisting with intra-aortic balloon pump management
• Providing perfusion support during organ transplant procedures
• Participating in patient assessment and care planning before and after surgery
• Keeping detailed records of the procedure and equipment used
• Ensuring the equipment is in proper working order before each procedure

Cardiovascular perfusionists are highly skilled healthcare professionals who operate heart-lung machines during cardiac surgeries. Certification in Clinical Perfusion from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) is a key requirement to practice as a licensed perfusionist. 

This certification is attained by satisfactory performance on the ABCP certification examination, typically offered twice a year. Most states accept this professional certification examination as proof of competence for licensure. Here is a list of states that require cardiovascular perfusionists to be licensed.

Cardiovascular perfusionists’ salaries can vary significantly depending on location, years of experience, and level of education. 

According to data from Glassdoor (2024), the estimated total pay for a cardiovascular perfusionist is around $160,635 per year in the United States, with an average salary of $139,626. Based on 294 salary profiles, PayScale (2024) reports an average salary of $140,827. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024) does not keep track of occupational data for cardiovascular perfusionists.

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Rachel Drummond, MEd

Writer

Rachel Drummond has written about integrating contemplative movement practices such as yoga into healthcare professions since 2019, promoting the idea that mental and physical well-being are critical components of effective patient care and self-care in the high-stress world of healthcare.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.