Program Overview

The University of Utah Cardiovascular Perfusion Program received full accreditation on January 20, 2022, and continues its mission to train the next generation of highly skilled perfusionists. This 24-month, full-time program leads to a Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion degree and begins each year in the summer semester (early May). The curriculum is designed to be completed over six continuous semesters.

The first year consists of three semesters of intensive didactic and laboratory instruction, combined with ongoing clinical observation experiences to help students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Students earn a total of 47 credit hours during the didactic year. A hallmark of the program is the required master’s project, which involves the use of real patient data and must be completed and presented prior to graduation.

The second year is dedicated to full-time clinical rotations, during which students gain hands-on experience in a variety of surgical environments under the close supervision of experienced clinical preceptors. This immersive clinical phase awards an additional 35 credit hours, preparing graduates for immediate entry into professional practice.

Mission

Develop highly trained, professional perfusionists to be successful, competent, and compassionate members of the cardiac surgery team. By using evidence-based medicine, the program will provide the knowledge, skills, and experience to work cooperatively and safely to ensure excellence in patient care.

Vision

The University of Utah Perfusion Program will be a leader in perfusion education by providing an innovative academic and clinical environment to inspire graduates to be safe, life-long learners, educators, researchers, and leaders.

Program Goals

• Prepare competent perfusionists in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning domains.
• Provide students with a strong foundation in perfusion theory and the skills to apply that theory proficiently in accordance with the needs of healthcare providers and employers.
• Maintain external accreditation with a curriculum designed to ensure job placement and success in the profession for our graduates
• Provide fluency of professional communication, behaviors, and attitudes between all medical disciplines.
• Prepare students to qualify and pass the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion certification examinations.