Neurodiagnostic (EEG) Technology

Neurodiagnostic (EEG) Technology

Explore your interests in the workings of the brain and nervous system while training for a career in the in-demand field of neurodiagnostic technology.

The neurodiagnostic technology degree is offered partially online with clinicals in local health facilities through a partnership with the EPIC (Educational Programs in Collaboration). The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

• About the Neurodiagnostic (EEG) Technology Degree

  Neurodiagnostic technology is the recording of electrical activity in the brain and nervous system. Train for a satisfying career in this growing field with expert instruction and clinical experience. 

  After completing prerequisite courses and gaining admission to the EPiC’s EEG program, you will begin taking courses specific to EEG. In your first semester, you will get an introduction to the field of neurodiagnostics, becoming familiar with the testing procedures used, medical terminology, and common disorders as well as neuroanatomy, physiology, and the structures and functions of the nervous system. You’ll learn how to accurately measure and apply electrodes and prepare for clinical practice. 

  In subsequent semesters, you’ll build on that foundation to learn about electricity as it relates to EEGs and EEG instrumentation, including amplifier settings, calibration methods, waveform analysis, and polarity. You’ll explore EEG patterns in adults during wake and sleep cycles and become familiar with the patterns of newborns and children and how to perform procedures on specific age groups. Courses in seizure patterns and neurological disorders will train you to identify common diagnoses. 

  Beginning in your second semester of the program, you will be placed in clinical sites where you will gain experience working in a real EEG lab and applying the skills and principles you’re learning in your courses.

  Throughout the program, you will have opportunities for direct contact with neurologist Dr. Mounzer Kassab, who is the head of the epilepsy division at the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University.

  At the conclusion of the program, you may take the national registry board exams to attempt to become a Registered EEG Technician (R.EEG T).

• How the Program Works

  This program is offered in conjunction with the partnership with the Educational Programs in Collaboration (EPiC) program. After completing pre-requisite courses at SMC, you can apply to the EEG program through which you’ll complete online courses specific to EEG technology. After completing all courses successfully, you will graduate with an Associate in Applied Science in Neurodiagnostic Technology (EEG) from SMC and will be eligible to take the certification exam administered by the American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologists (ABRET).

  SMC courses are billed at SMC’s tuition rate. EPiC courses are billed at a different rate, which is based on credit hours, not contact hours. There is also a flat rate course fee for each course in the program. In 2023-24, the EPIC program tuition rate is $204 per credit hour with a $206 flat rate fee per course.

  For more information, contact the Academic Advising and Resource Center at 269-782-1303 or askanadvisor@swmich.edu.  All courses are eligible for financial aid. 

   

• Application Information

  Application Deadline: May 1

  Program Begins: Fall Semester

  1. Apply for Admission to SMC
     Fill out the free application here. Select Health Services AA on the application.
  2. Complete Pre-Requisite Courses
     Refer to the EEG Prospective Student Packet for more information about pre-requisite courses and admissions information.
  3. Contact the Program Advisor to Discuss Admission Requirements for the EEG Program
     Email Kwajalein Dodd at kdodd01@swmich.edu.
  4. Apply to the EEG Program
     Complete the MRI and EEG Application Packet and return it to the nursing office by June 1.
     You will be notified of your admission decision by mail or email.
• Curriculum Guides

  View the curriculum guide for the Associate in Applied Science in Neurodiagnostic Technology.

• What Can I Do With a Neurodiagnostic (EEG) Technology Degree?

  Neurodiagnostic technologists perform electroencephalograms (EEGs), which map electrical activity in the brain and are used by physicians to diagnose and treat neurological disorders. 

  EEG technicians may explain the EEG test procedure to patients, prepare patients for the procedure, conduct the EEG test, monitor the patient’s condition during the procedure, prepare reports, and communicate results to physicians. They may be employed in hospitals or other health care settings.

  EEG technicians with an associate degree may have better opportunities for advancement into management positions. 

  Careers and Salaries

  Career Option	Salary
  Neurodiagnostic Technologists:	$47,470

  2023 median pay. Source: O-Net Online