Program News
New Program Trains Technologists to Perform Brain Tests
RALEIGH, N.C. (May 6, 2020) – Are you intrigued by the human brain and how the nervous system works?
If so, a career as an electroneurodiagnostic technologist might be for you.
Wake Tech is currently accepting applications for its new Electroneurodiagnostic Technology (EDT) program, an associate in applied science degree, for the fall semester. Wake Tech is one of four community colleges in North Carolina to offer the two-year degree program.
Electroneurodiagnostic technologists record and study electrical activity in the brain and nervous system to help doctors diagnose neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, migraines, sleep disorders, brain tumors, seizures, and strokes.
They are trained to perform and read the test and then share the results with a physician who interprets them to determine a diagnosis. They also talk to patients before the test to prepare them and help them understand what to expect.
Rebecca Rendahl, EDT program director, said demand is high for trained technologists to work in hospitals, clinics, neurologist’s offices, and research labs. Most are inquisitive, curious, problem-solvers and good communicators, she said.
“The career outlook is excellent for electroneurodiagnostic technologists in the Triangle area,” Rendahl said. “This is a growing field in healthcare occupations nationwide, and our partners at Duke University Health System, Wake Med, UNC Health System, and Raleigh Neurology Associates are in need of technologists who are well-trained in conducting vital tests that diagnose neurological health issues.”
Classes will be offered at the Perry Health Sciences campus. Students will also perform hands-on clinical hours with the college’s healthcare partners.
The average starting salary for electroneurodiagnostic technologists is $47,000.
For more information about the EDT program at Wake Tech, visit edt.waketech.edu. Interested students with questions may also call Rendahl at (919) 747-0032 or email her at [email protected].
