UPMC Procirca and Carlow University are combining strengths to offer an associate degree in Neurodiagnostic Technology. This two-year program launches an excellent career path. The field of neurodiagnostics is expected to remain in demand in the job market and offers a wide range of options for professional advancement.
This associate degree is the only program of its kind in the Pittsburgh region. It is being offered in-person exclusively. Learn more.
What does a neurodiagnostic technologist do?
These allied health professionals are skilled at performing tests critical to patient outcomes which include electroencephalography (EEG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS). EEG technologists use electrodes carefully placed on the head to record brain activity and identify potential for seizure activity and other neurological conditions. NCS technologists measure the responses from peripheral nerves when stimulated by a controlled electrical current to assess the severity and location of nerve dysfunction.
Physicians consider qualified neurodiagnostic technologists (NDTs) necessary contributors to improving quality of care. NDTs apply their technical and interpersonal skills in providing specialized direct patient care, and they are in regular communication with other health care providers.
Contact Us
Questions? Contact Dreux Priore, director, neurodiagnostic (EEG/EMG) education, priored@upmc.edu
Credentialed neurodiagnostic technologists (NDTs) are immediately prepared for more varied and higher paying job opportunities, and earning an associate degree provides a strong foundation for professional advancement.
The education and experience provided by the Carlow associate of science in Neurodiagnostic Technology will prepare the student to sit for board exams to become a registered electroencephalographic technologist (R. EEG T.), registered nerve conduction technologist (R. NCS T.), and/or certified nerve conduction technologist (CNCT). Information about credentialing requirements is available online at the American Board of Registered Electrodiagnostic Technologists, American Association of Electrodiagnostic Technology), and the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
Neurodiagnostic technology lends itself to a variety of professional growth opportunities. Higher-level NDT positions include:
- Remote monitoring technologists who report EEG findings captured in home and hospital settings to alert nurses and physicians
- Travelling NDTs who experience living and working in different cities as they provide services where needed throughout the country
- Technologists who understand complex intracranial EEG, stereotactic EEG, and magnetoencephalography (MEG) used for presurgical evaluation
- Lab managers and directors who oversee operations and training for small community hospitals, large healthcare organizations, and remote monitoring companies
- Sales technologists who are employed by equipment manufacturers to provide service and support to technologists and physicians working in the field
“I started my journey of becoming an EEG tech exactly one year ago, and I really like it! It was a big step for me into the unknown world of the brain and epilepsy. EEG is challenging and I’m excited to be part of it. Describing EEG recordings is like opening Christmas presents – you never know what you are getting! That excitement is why I would like to learn more to provide the best possible care for my patients and build my future as an EEG technologist.”
Lucie BartosiewiczEEG Technologist I, UPMC Presbyterian
“As a young volunteer, I knew that working with people was what I wanted to do. I was exposed to different services in the health system and found an opportunity in neurodiagnostics by chance. I love the diverse patient population and that our field is ever-changing and advancing. Most medical providers do not get to spend the amount of time we do with patients. Not only is our testing lifesaving, but we also get to give undivided attention to our patients.”
Bonnie DenardoLead Neurodiagnostic Technologist, UPMC Hamot
Who should consider neurodiagnostic technology as a career?
Neurodiagnostic technologists work as part of a multidisciplinary professional team to provide direct care for a diverse patient population. The job is ideal for the curious problem-solver who likes change, works well with others, enjoys doing precision work with their hands, and is excited to learn new things every day.
The successful candidate has the following qualities:
Solid basic math skills – Neurodiagnostic technologists need to measure accurately, calculate waveform frequencies and amplitudes, and comprehend basic statistical data.
Strong visual pattern recognition – A good visual memory and the ability to identify symmetry along with different wave shapes and patterns is a must.
Outstanding verbal communication – Successful technologists are great listeners who recognize different viewpoints as essential to learning, growth, and improvement. They adapt to people of all ages, cultures, and abilities.
Caring and compassion – Neurodiagnostic technologists often deal with patients and families during their most challenging moments.
Problem solving ability and patience – The best neurodiagnostic technologists love to solve puzzles and never give up when faced with a challenge.
Quick thinking – Neurodiagnostic technologists respond to emergency situations and acute patient condition changes with speed and confidence.
Commitment to lifelong learning and discovery – Neurodiagnostic technologists move with the changes in medical science and take individual responsibility to earn continuing education credits to maintain their skills and credentials.
Check back for application link!
Contact Us
Questions? Contact Dreux Priore, director, neurodiagnostic (EEG/EMG) education, priored@upmc.edu