Short-cycle professional higher education study program CARDIOPULMONARY BYPASS (41 722), qualification “Perfusionist”
- Qualification: Perfusionist
- Duration of studies: 3 years total or continuing previous studies
- Study schedule: full-time in a hybrid mode (online lectures and in-person classes)
- Required previous education: secondary education; if continuing previous studies, a professional qualification in medicine or healthcare is required
- Study program accreditation: until 12th January 2029
- Degree and qualification to be obtained: upon successful completion of the study program, a short-cycle professional higher education diploma and the qualification “Perfusionist” are obtained, which corresponds to the fifth professional qualification level
- The study programme is designed so that, upon successful completion, graduates are provided the opportunity to independently take the European examination and obtain the ECCP (European Certificate in Cardiovascular Perfusion) certification.
Admission to Advanced Stages of Studies in the Study Programme “Cardiopulmonary Bypass”
Admission Requirements
- Copy of a passport or national ID card
- Notarized English translation (apostille) of the document certifying general secondary education, except in cases where secondary education was obtained in English
- Documents certifying previously obtained professional qualification (diploma and diploma supplement), with notarized English translation (apostille)
- A document issued by an international language testing institution confirming that the applicant’s proficiency in the language of instruction (English) is at least B2 level.
- If prior education was completed in English, proof of language proficiency is not required.
Perfusionist:
The study program “Cardiopulmonary bypass” prepares highly qualified perfusionists who are able to professionally and safely ensure the process of artificial blood circulation during cardiac surgeries, as well as manage long-term artificial blood circulation and ECMO in patients with severe heart and/or lung insufficiency. The studies are designed to develop the knowledge and practical skills in the preparing, managing and monitoring of equipment, ensuring the maintenance of the patient's vital functions during surgeries.
The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, professional ethics, responsibility and patient safety, as well as teamwork skills in collaboration with cardiac surgery and anesthesiology specialists. Students learn critical thinking, digital skills, pharmacology and clinical situation assessment, as well as the ability to continuously improve professional competence.
Upon completing the program students acquire knowledge and skills that ensure competitiveness in the Latvian and European healthcare systems, as well as the ability to develop professional identity and autonomy in perfusionist practice.