Patient Care Technician
100% Online Certification Training
This program will prepare you to work directly with patients in a variety of healthcare settings.
31 Weeks
Program
Length
$34k*
Average Starting Salary
8%
Estimated Job Growth
31 Weeks
Program
Length
$34k*
Average Starting Salary
8%
Estimated Job Growth
Program Overview
Career Outlook
FAQs
Program Overview
National Centers for Competency Testing (NCCT) Exam
PCT, CNA, EKG, and Phlebotomy Certifications with the State of Texas (Prometric) Exams
The Patient Care Technician (PCT) Program at Valley Grande Institute prepares you for a hands-on healthcare career in just 7 months. PCTs work alongside nurses and other licensed professionals to provide direct patient care, monitor vital signs, collect specimens, perform EKGs, and assist with basic lab procedures—helping patients stay comfortable, safe, and supported.
✓ Understand the responsibilities of basic patient care — bathing, feeding, catheter care, etc.
✓ Vital signs monitoring and EKG procedures
✓ Perform phlebotomy procedures, lab tests, blood glucose tests, and exercise/nutrition/diet monitoring
✓ Demonstrate an understanding of the soft skill expectations of an allied healthcare professional
Program Details
Program Courses
Courses Sections
Lecture
Clinical
Lab
Total Program Hours
Total Duration
214 Hours
296 Hours
240 Hours
750 Hours
Enrollment Requirements
✓ High School Diploma or GED
✓ Web browser with internet connection
✓ Course registration & payment
Student Services
✓ Tailored tutoring support on-site
✓ Exam preparation process
✓ Minimum grade requirement
✓ Instructor notifies when student is below minimum grade
Program Details
Program Courses
Total Program Hours
750 Hours
Enrollment Requirements
✓ High School Diploma or GED
✓ Web browser with internet connection
✓ Course registration & payment
Student Services
✓ Tailored tutoring support on-site
✓ Exam preparation process
✓ Minimum grade requirement
✓ Instructor notifies when student is below minimum grade
Career Outlook
Patient Care Technician
Job Opportunities
Home Health Aide
$21,000 to $34,000
Average Earning Potential
Nursing Assistant
$23,000 to $35,000
Average Earning Potential
Personal Care Aide
$24,000 to $67,000
Average Earning Potential
Career Outlook
Patient Care Technician
Job Opportunities
Home Health Aide
Nursing Assistant
Personal Care Aide
399,654*
Entry level job openings in the US
8%*
$34,434
Average Earning Potential
399,654*
Entry level job openings in the US
8%*
Job Growth over the next 10 years
$34,434
Average earning potential
FAQs
What is a Patient Care Technician?
A Patient Care Technician supports doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals by providing essential day-to-day care to patients. This includes tasks like bathing and feeding patients, as well as performing clinical duties such as EKGs, drawing blood and assisting with medical procedures. They also play a role in illness prevention, rehabilitation and educating patients and families, making them integral to comprehensive patient care.
Are there opportunities for career advancement as a PCT?
Yes. PCTs can advance to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) or continue their education to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs).
What is the salary for a Patient Care Technician?
The average starting salary for patient care technicians is $34,434. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the specific setting in which they work.
What kind of work does a PCT do?
PCTs assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They also monitor vital signs and assist with medical procedures, providing direct, hands-on patient care.
Is there a difference between Valley Grande Institute and other schools that offer PCT training?
Yes. VGI’s 7-month program combines classroom, lab, and clinical training for a total of 750 hours, covering not only patient care but also EKG, phlebotomy, and basic lab procedures.
What certifications can I earn after graduating from the PCT program?
Graduates are eligible to take the National Centers for Competency Testing (NCCT) Exam, as well as PCT, CNA, EKG, and Phlebotomy certification exams with the State of Texas (Prometric).