Learn to operate heart-lung machines during surgery with a joint BS/MS degree

You can combine a liberal arts education with hands-on clinical experience with a bachelor’s degree in Biology and track into an accelerated master’s degree program in Cardiovascular Perfusion. 

You will learn how to operate the heart-lung machine during surgery. As you work toward your bachelor’s degree in Biology, you will complete requirements at UPMC Shadyside, while beginning your clinical training.
In this accelerated Cardiovascular Perfusion program, you will pursue Biology within the tradition of the liberal arts while accumulating the technical proficiency and professional skills required of health care professionals.

Three students, in blue gloves, stand together conducting an experiment in class at Carlow University.
From left, Makaylah Ballard (health sciences/pre-PA, ’24), asks a question of Dr. Meredith Eyre as Ella Witt (health sciences, ’24) looks on during a molecular and cellular biology lab in A.J. Palumbo Hall, Tuesday, November 16, 2021. (Rebecca Droke/Carlow University)
Degrees:

BS to MS

Delivery:

On campus, some online

Campus:

Oakland

Transfer credits:

Individually evaluated

Cardiovascular Perfusion program curriculum

You will complete your bachelor’s degree in Biology directly through Carlow University. The Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion is offered in coordination with the UPMC School of Perfusion. Up to 20 students per year are accepted into the master’s program.

Quick facts

  • Gain 18 months of clinical training at UPMC Shadyside
  • Graduate with BS and MS degrees in under 5 years
  • Prepare for an in-demand health care career
A biology student works during class at his desk. On his desk is an anatomy model.

Career opportunities for Perfusionists

Most perfusionists work in medical operating rooms. The American Society for Extracorporeal Technology expects hospitals to hire more perfusionists in coming years to compensate for the aging American population.

Admission requirements and application process

  • Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
  • Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

Cardiovascular Perfusion faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

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