
Master of Science in Cardiovascular Science (M.S.)
7 continuous quarters
20-25
90%
First-time test-takers
100% of graduates seeking jobs were hired
$112,458
To be considered for admission to the Cardiovascular Science Program, applicants must submit documentation of the following:
To be competitive in our rolling admissions process, students should apply as early as possible.
Additional Application Information
In an ever-changing field where surgical, technological, and basic sciences are rapidly changing, students in the Midwestern University Cardiovascular Science/Perfusion program gain the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the demands that will be placed upon them as professionals. A challenging core curriculum provides a solid scientific base for the perfusionist. Graduates are highly qualified in the operation of heart-lung systems and in the operation of other cardiovascular-related procedures such as blood salvaging, mechanical circulatory assist devices, artificial hearts, and other equipment and procedures.
The curriculum leading to a master's degree is a full-time professional program of seven continuous quarters with a didactic and clinical faculty consisting of perfusionists, anesthesiologists, cardiac surgeons, and professional educators. The program begins with three quarters of didactic and laboratory education at the Glendale, Arizona, campus. The student is exposed to clinical medicine during the first three quarters by clinical observation at affiliated hospitals in the Phoenix area.
The summer quarter of the student's second year begins the four-quarter clinical rotation segment held at various affiliated hospitals located across the country. Relocation during clinical rotation will be necessary. This is a rigorous and demanding program; however, graduates are rewarded with the satisfaction that comes with accomplishment and an excellent start to their professional careers.
The Cardiovascular Science Program continuously evaluates curriculum and processes to ensure students are receiving appropriate training to adequately prepare them for providing patient care and for certification examinations. Preceptor, alumni, and student evaluations are reviewed and appropriate changes instituted, if necessary. Program improvements for next year include the following:
A perfusionist is a skilled person, qualified by academic and clinical education, who operates extracorporeal circulation equipment during any medical situation where it is necessary to support or temporarily replace the patient's circulatory or respiratory function. The perfusionist is knowledgeable concerning the variety of equipment available to perform extracorporeal circulation functions, and is responsible in consultation with the physician for selecting the appropriate equipment and techniques to be used.
The Cardiovascular Science Program at Midwestern University (MWU) will provide academic and clinical excellence in educating cardiovascular perfusionists to ensure quality patient care.
The Cardiovascular Science Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Committee–Perfusion Education Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, 35 East Wacker Drive, Suite 1970, Chicago, IL 60601-2208; 312/553-9355.
Midwestern University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission/A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC/NCA), 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1413.
Cardiovascular Science as a Career
American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion
American Heart Association (AHA)
American Society of Extra-Corporeal Technology (AmSECT)