Program Description
The Cardiovascular Invasive Specialty program offers a two-year associate in applied acience degree program and one-year diploma program for qualified students. The program provides the student with classroom theory and supervised clinical experiences to give the student the knowledge and skills to become an entry-level Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist. Clinical instruction offers a variety of experiences in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, while rotating through area cardiac cath labs. Class size is limited in order to provide the learner with individual attention in the clinical area. Upon completion of the program, the graduate is ready to assume entry-level responsibilities in the cardiac cath lab and is eligible to take the registry exam (Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist-RCIS) offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International.

Qualified individuals who have completed a two-year post-secondary allied health program, or have earned an associate's or bachelor's degree, are eligible to enter the diploma program beginning in Fall 2nd Year. Prerequisite coursework includes human anatomy and physiology I and II.

Mission
The mission of the Cardiovascular Invasive Specialty program is to create a compassionate, competent professional Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist. The program will provide an education which encompasses theory, professionalism, and ethical concepts relating to clinical practice. The program facilitates critical thinking, independent learning and technical skill development, enabling graduates to function effectively as team members that provide quality client care in the cardiovascular environment.

Educational Outcomes
In fulfilling its mission, the Cardiovascular Invasive Specialty Program graduates will:

• Provide quality care as a competent and compassionate professional in the dynamic cardiovascular environment.
• Utilize theoretical knowledge and critical thinking as the basis for professional practice.
• Practice responsibility within an ethical and legal realm of Cardiovascular Invasive Specialty.
• Assume responsibility for life-long learning and professional growth.
• Build professionalism through the practice of community service.

Admission Criteria Specific to This Program
For complete College admissions requirements, see our Admissions page (link on the left side of this page). Individuals who have completed a two-year post-secondary allied health program, or have earned an associate's or bachelor's degree, are eligible to complete the Cardiovascular Invasive Specialty diploma curriculum. Applicants must have completed the following college-level courses with a grade of C or better: human anatomy and physiology I & II.

Clinical Facilities
The program clinical facility for the Cardiovascular Invasive Specialty Program is located in Lancaster General Hospital, where in 2004 more than 10,000 procedures were performed in the cardiovascular laboratory. The classroom is located within walking distance of the Hospital and is available for student and faculty use. Current reference materials, textbooks, journals, and audiovisual materials are readily accessible to students and the faculty. Clinical affiliations are also maintained with other area invasive cardiovascular laboratories.

Class Standing
Cardiovascular Invasive Specialty students designated as Level I and Level II are defined as follows:
Level I: 0-30 credits
Level II: 31-62 credits

Updated 11/30/07