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B-SC in Cardiac Technology at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Cardiac Technology at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This B.Sc Cardiac Technology program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on equipping students with expertise in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases. India faces a rising burden of heart ailments, creating a significant demand for skilled cardiac technologists who can assist cardiologists with advanced diagnostic and interventional procedures. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and extensive practical training to meet this demand.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates with a strong interest in human physiology, medical technology, and patient care. It suits individuals aspiring to be critical members of a cardiac healthcare team, freshers seeking a specialized medical allied health career, or those passionate about using technology to improve cardiovascular health outcomes in the Indian medical landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths as Cardiac Technologists, ECG Technicians, Echocardiography Technicians, and Cath Lab Technicians in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and clinics across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, growing significantly with experience to 8-12 LPA or more. The program prepares students for roles assisting in complex cardiac procedures and advanced imaging, contributing directly to patient recovery.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Basic Sciences Fundamentally- (Semester 1-2)
Rigorously study Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. Utilize interactive anatomy apps, online physiology lectures, and biochemistry problem-solving resources to build a robust conceptual base. This foundational knowledge is paramount for understanding complex cardiac pathologies and technology applications later.
Tools & Resources
Complete Anatomy App, Khan Academy Medicine, NCERT Biology Textbooks
Career Connection
A strong grasp of basic sciences is crucial for accurate diagnosis assistance and understanding treatment rationales, which are highly valued in entry-level technologist roles.
Develop Practical Lab Skills Proactively- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical sessions for Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Basic Computer Science. Practice essential skills like blood pressure measurement, basic vital sign monitoring, and sterile techniques diligently. Early hands-on competence builds confidence and forms the bedrock for advanced clinical procedures.
Tools & Resources
Anatomy Models, Physiology Lab Kits, Basic IT Skills Tutorials
Career Connection
Proficiency in basic practical skills enhances employability in hospital settings and clinical labs, where initial roles often involve fundamental patient assessment and documentation.
Cultivate Medical Terminology and Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Create a glossary or flashcards for new medical terms encountered in every subject. Engage in peer-to-peer discussions, practice explaining medical concepts clearly, and actively participate in soft skills training. Strong communication, empathy, and professional etiquette are vital for effective patient and team interaction.
Tools & Resources
Medical Terminology Apps, Group Study Sessions, Mock Interview Practice
Career Connection
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are highly sought after by healthcare employers, improving patient rapport and fostering smoother teamwork in critical care units.
Intermediate Stage
Intensive Cardiac Diagnostic Skill Acquisition- (Semesters 3-5)
During ECG, Echocardiography, and Cardiac Imaging labs, dedicate significant extra time to practice interpretation and image acquisition techniques. Utilize online case studies, simulations, and textbooks to deepen understanding of various cardiac conditions. This focused practice is essential for accurately assisting cardiologists.
Tools & Resources
ECG Wave-Maven, Echocardiography Textbooks (e.g., Feigenbaum''''s), Online Case Libraries
Career Connection
Mastery of cardiac diagnostic skills directly leads to roles as proficient ECG or Echo Technicians, which are in constant demand in Indian diagnostic centers and hospitals.
Maximize Clinical Attachment Learning- (Semesters 3-5)
Leverage Allied Health Practical attachments (Cardiac Ward, Cath Lab, Echocardiography Lab) by keenly observing procedures, asking pertinent questions, and actively assisting where permitted. Maintain a detailed logbook of observations and learnings. Early, proactive clinical exposure helps connect theory to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Clinical Logbook, Procedure Manuals, Mentors/Supervisors
Career Connection
Hands-on experience gained during attachments is invaluable for placements, demonstrating practical readiness and familiarity with hospital environments and protocols.
Network and Engage with the Cardiac Community- (Semesters 3-5)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and medical conferences related to cardiology, both on and off campus. Actively connect with senior cardiac technologists, cardiologists, and industry professionals. Building a professional network provides mentorship, insights into career progression, and potential future job referrals.
Tools & Resources
Professional Conferences (e.g., CSI), LinkedIn, Alumni Network
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorships, and direct hiring opportunities, crucial for navigating the competitive Indian healthcare job market.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Training in Interventional Cardiology- (Semesters 6-8)
Focus intensely on Cardiac Catheterization, Interventions, and Electrophysiology during advanced clinical attachments. Understand the intricacies of equipment, patient preparation, and post-procedure care. Seek opportunities to shadow and assist senior technologists in complex cases to build expertise in high-demand areas.
Tools & Resources
Cath Lab Simulations, EP Lab Manuals, Advanced Cardiology Journals
Career Connection
Specialized skills in interventional cardiology make graduates highly competitive for roles in cath labs and EP labs, often commanding better salaries and growth prospects.
Excel in Research and Project Development- (Semesters 6-8)
Choose a relevant cardiac technology topic for the project work and dedicate significant effort to mastering research methodology, data analysis, and scientific writing. A well-executed project demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving, and a commitment to advancing the field, significantly enhancing a resume.
Tools & Resources
Research Mentors, Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS), Academic Databases
Career Connection
A strong project portfolio distinguishes candidates, particularly for roles involving research, development, or advanced clinical practice, and can be a stepping stone for higher education.
Strategic Placement and Professional Certification- (Semesters 6-8 (including internship))
Actively participate in campus placement drives, tailor your resume for specific cardiac tech roles, and practice technical and HR interview questions. Consider pursuing additional professional certifications like BLS/ACLS. These credentials are highly valued by Indian hospitals, boosting employability and demonstrating readiness.
Tools & Resources
Career Services Cell, Mock Interview Platforms, BLS/ACLS Certification Courses
Career Connection
Focused placement preparation and relevant certifications significantly increase job offers, secure better starting positions, and accelerate career progression in the competitive healthcare sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed in 10+2 Higher Secondary examination with Physics, Chemistry & Biology or Botany & Zoology with minimum 40% aggregate marks.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) + 1 year internship
Credits: 131 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VBS1L1 | Basic Human Anatomy | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to Human Body, Cell and Tissue Organization, Musculoskeletal System, Cardiovascular System, Respiratory and Digestive Systems |
| VBS1L2 | Basic Human Physiology | Core Theory | 4 | General Physiology, Blood Components and Functions, Cardiovascular System Physiology, Respiratory System Physiology, Nervous System Physiology |
| VBS1P1 | Basic Human Anatomy and Physiology | Core Practical | 2 | Identification of Bones and Muscles, Study of Human Organs, Physiological Experiments, Blood Pressure Measurement, Respiratory Function Tests |
| VBS1L3 | General Microbiology | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to Microbiology, Bacterial Morphology and Physiology, Sterilization and Disinfection, Basic Immunology, Common Pathogens |
| VBS1L4 | Biochemistry | Core Theory | 4 | Biomolecules, Enzymes, Carbohydrate Metabolism, Lipid and Protein Metabolism, Clinical Biochemistry |
| VBS1P2 | General Microbiology and Biochemistry | Core Practical | 2 | Microscopic Examination of Bacteria, Staining Techniques, Culture Media Preparation, Biochemical Tests, Enzyme Assays |
| VBS1S1 | Soft Skills | Skill Enhancement Course | 1 | Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Time Management, Stress Management, Professional Etiquette |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VBS2L1 | General Pathology | Core Theory | 4 | General Pathology Principles, Inflammation and Repair, Hemodynamic Disorders, Neoplasia, Genetic Disorders |
| VBS2L2 | Applied Pharmacology | Core Theory | 4 | Principles of Pharmacology, Autonomic Nervous System Drugs, Cardiovascular Drugs, Diuretics and Anticoagulants, Emergency Drugs |
| VBS2P1 | General Pathology and Applied Pharmacology | Core Practical | 2 | Histopathology Slides, Gross Specimens, Drug Classifications, Drug Calculations, Routes of Drug Administration |
| VBS2L3 | Medical Physics | Core Theory | 4 | Basic Physics Principles, Electricity and Magnetism, Radiation Physics, Ultrasound Physics, ECG Principles |
| VBS2L4 | Basic Computer Science | Core Theory | 4 | Computer Fundamentals, Operating Systems, MS Office Suite, Internet and Email, Hospital Information System |
| VBS2P2 | Medical Physics and Basic Computer Science | Core Practical | 2 | ECG Waveform Analysis, Basic Circuit Experiments, MS Office Exercises, Internet Usage, HIS Simulation |
| VBS2S1 | Environmental Studies | Skill Enhancement Course | 1 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Renewable Energy, Environmental Ethics, Waste Management |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VBS3L1 | Introduction to Cardiac Technology | Core Theory | 4 | History of Cardiac Technology, Cardiac Anatomy and Physiology Review, Basics of ECG, Echocardiography Principles, Cath Lab Procedures |
| VBS3L2 | Cardiac Pharmacology | Core Theory | 4 | Antiarrhythmics, Anti-anginals, Antihypertensives, Lipid-Lowering Drugs, Heart Failure Drugs |
| VBS3P1 | Introduction to Cardiac Technology and Cardiac Pharmacology | Core Practical | 2 | ECG Recording and Interpretation, Basic Echo Views, Drug Calculations for Cardiac Patients, Cath Lab Setup Familiarization |
| VBS3L3 | Medical Statistics | Core Theory | 4 | Data Collection and Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency, Probability and Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression, Clinical Trial Design |
| VBS3E1 | Communication and Counselling for Allied Health Professionals | Elective I (Option 1) | 4 | Communication Theories, Patient Counselling, Ethical Issues in Communication, Stress Management, Conflict Resolution |
| VBS3E2 | Hospital Waste Management | Elective I (Option 2) | 4 | Types of Hospital Waste, Waste Segregation, Treatment Methods, Disposal Procedures, Infection Control |
| VBS3A1 | Allied Health Practical I (Cardiac Ward Attachment) | Practical | 2 | Patient Assessment, Vital Signs Monitoring, Assisting with Patient Care, Documentation in Ward, Ethical Considerations |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VBS4L1 | Electrocardiography and Treadmill Test | Core Theory | 4 | Advanced ECG Interpretation, Arrhythmias, Ischemia and Infarction, Pacemaker ECG, Stress Testing Protocols |
| VBS4L2 | Echocardiography | Core Theory | 4 | Principles of Ultrasound, 2D, M-Mode, and Doppler Echo, Transesophageal Echocardiography, Stress Echocardiography, Valvular Heart Disease |
| VBS4P1 | Electrocardiography and Echocardiography | Core Practical | 2 | Advanced ECG Recording, TMT Setup and Monitoring, Basic Echocardiography Scan Techniques, Image Acquisition and Optimization |
| VBS4L3 | Cardiac Imaging Techniques | Core Theory | 4 | Chest X-ray in Cardiology, Cardiac MRI, Cardiac CT, Nuclear Cardiology, Angiography Principles |
| VBS4E3 | Emergency Medical Care | Elective II (Option 1) | 4 | Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Trauma Care Principles, Emergency Pharmacology, Airway Management |
| VBS4E4 | Quality Control and Patient Safety in Healthcare | Elective II (Option 2) | 4 | Quality Management Systems, Patient Safety Initiatives, Error Prevention Strategies, Accreditation Standards, Risk Management in Healthcare |
| VBS4A2 | Allied Health Practical II (Cath Lab Attachment) | Practical | 2 | Cath Lab Sterile Procedures, Assisting During Angiography, Equipment Handling in Cath Lab, Patient Monitoring in Cath Lab, Documentation of Procedures |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VBS5L1 | Cardiac Catheterization and Interventions | Core Theory | 4 | Cath Lab Equipment, Angiography Procedures, Angioplasty and Stenting, Valvuloplasty, Device Closures |
| VBS5L2 | Cardiac Electrophysiology | Core Theory | 4 | Basics of Electrophysiology, Arrhythmia Mechanisms, EP Lab Procedures, Ablation Techniques, Pacemakers and ICDs |
| VBS5P1 | Cardiac Catheterization and Electrophysiology | Core Practical | 2 | Cath Lab Simulation, EP Study Recording, Pacemaker Programming Basics, Device Checks, Lead Placement Simulation |
| VBS5L3 | Cardio-Pulmonary Bypass Technology | Core Theory | 4 | Principles of CPB, Perfusion Circuit Components, Cannulation Techniques, Myocardial Protection, Complications of CPB |
| VBS5S2 | Medical Ethics and Jurisprudence | Skill Enhancement Course | 1 | Ethical Principles in Healthcare, Informed Consent, Patient Rights and Confidentiality, Medical Malpractice, Medical Negligence |
| VBS5A3 | Allied Health Practical III (Echocardiography Lab Attachment) | Practical | 2 | Advanced Echo Techniques, Pediatric Echocardiography, Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography, TEE Assistance, Reporting Echo Findings |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VBS6L1 | Cardiac Critical Care and Rehabilitation | Core Theory | 4 | ICU Monitoring, Ventilator Management, Cardiac Emergencies, Post-operative Cardiac Care, Cardiac Rehabilitation Phases |
| VBS6L2 | Pediatric Cardiology | Core Theory | 4 | Congenital Heart Diseases, Pediatric Echocardiography, Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization, Neonatal Cardiac Care, Fetal Echocardiography |
| VBS6P1 | Cardiac Critical Care and Rehabilitation & Pediatric Cardiology | Core Practical | 2 | ICU Equipment Handling, Basic Life Support, Pediatric ECG, CHD Identification in Echo, Exercise Prescriptions |
| VBS6P2 | Project Work / Research Methodology | Project | 6 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
| VBS6V1 | Viva Voce | Viva Voce | 2 | Comprehensive Assessment of Theoretical Knowledge, Practical Skill Demonstration Review, Problem-Solving Abilities, Clinical Reasoning |
| VBS6A4 | Allied Health Practical IV (Cardio-Pulmonary Bypass Lab Attachment) | Practical | 2 | CPB Circuit Assembly, Priming Procedures, Flow Management During CPB, Gas Exchange Principles, Patient Monitoring During CPB |
Semester year
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VBS7I1 | Internship | Compulsory Rotating Internship | 12 | Clinical Application of Cardiac Technology, Patient Care and Monitoring, Assisting in Diagnostic Procedures, Assisting in Interventional Procedures, Professionalism and Teamwork |
