Bachelor of Science in Neurodiagnostic Technology

Neurodiagnostics is the study of the brain, spine and nervous system. Neurodiagnostic technology (NDT) professionals perform tests to help doctors diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. They also monitor patients’ brain and nerve function during surgery to keep them safe. Carroll University is one of only a few in the nation to offer a Bachelor of Science in Neurodiagnostic Technology, a very fast-growing field. NDT professionals can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, sleep centers, epilepsy labs, private practice, patients’ homes, educational institutions and research facilities. There also are opportunities to work internationally.

Program Overview

Meet Kelly Reynolds, Carroll Alumna and Neurodiagnostic Technologist

Our unique partnership program combines the personalized attention, caring community and rigorous academic preparation of Carroll University with the professional expertise and technology of Aurora Health Care’s hospital-based educational program. You’ll earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Neurodiagnostic Technology (NDT) and two national registry certificates, providing you with additional employment opportunities.

First Two Years: Carroll Phase

During the first two years, students complete the Pioneer Core, Carroll’s general education requirement, along with hospital prerequisites before applying for placement with one of our hospital partners. This allows students to explore classes in humanities, social sciences and natural sciences and includes a cross-cultural component in which you learn about people and cultures different from you. At Carroll, you will build real-world skills like communication, problem- solving and innovative thinking, helping you become a well-rounded healthcare provider

Final Two Years: Hospital Phase

During their hospital placement with Aurora Health Care, students take neurodiagnostic-specific coursework and rotate through diverse clinical placements with a small cohort of classmates.

The NDT program prepares students to take three of eight professional exams, greatly increasing career options for graduates. After junior year, students are eligible to take the EEG board examination. Upon passing, students can pursue a paid internship as a registered EEG Technologist to enhance their skills and build a network before their final year in the program.

Students take their Evoked Potential board examination during their senior year, allowing them to become dual registered. The final semester of the program is focused on intraoperative neuromonitoring. The program also helps students develop professionally and make connections with other providers in the field.

Graduates of the program enter the field as a Neurodiagnostic Specialist I or II based on their registrations, degree, and clinical experience. Currently less than 1% of NDTs nationwide hold three registrations and a bachelor’s degree in NDT, putting graduates of Carroll’s program at the top of their field. Because Neurodiagnostic credentialing and accreditations are internationally recognized, graduates have job opportunities across the world.

Program alumni have gone on to work in hospitals, clinics, education, sales, management, and specialty areas like neuroanalytics or pediatrics. According to ASET, the Neurodiagnostic Society, there is an estimated nationwide shortage of 26,000 highly skilled neurodiagnostic technologists, making projected career growth in this field faster than average.

ADMISSIONS/ REQUIREMENTS

Students can enter the NDT program in one of two ways: direct admission or competitive admission.

Direct Admission Option: Direct admission entry provides select incoming, full-time, first-time freshmen matriculating directly out of high school an opportunity to enter directly into the pre-professional phase of the program and receive a guaranteed hospital seat, provided progression standards and cohort requirements are met.

Competitive Admission Option: Students not securing a direct admission seat can apply to the professional phase of the NDT program as a competitive admission candidate.

Admission requirements are determined by the hospital partner and include both academic and non-academic factors. Acceptance into the hospital phase is determined solely by the admissions committee at the partner’s independent School of Neurodiagnostic Technology. This is a competitive program, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Preference is given to applicants with strong science and math grades and GPA, direct patient care experience, understanding of the NDT profession and solid interpersonal skills. As an NDT major, you will receive support and guidance from Carroll’s Health and Medical Sciences Advisor on the application process. A detailed list of hospital admission requirements can be found in our academic catalog.

Partnership

Group of students with big smiles in healthcare envirionment
Group photo of Aurora Program Director, Tabitha Althoff (far left) and CU Academic Advisor, Lucy Glaser (far right) with students at the 2024 Wisconsin Neurodiagnostic Society (WISET) Annual Conference in Milwaukee, WI.

Carroll University is proud to partner with the following accredited Neurodiagnostic Technology program:

REGULATORY INFORMATION

Carroll University is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The NDT program at Aurora Health Care St. Luke’s Medical Center maintains accreditation upon recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation for Education in Neurodiagnostic Technology (CoA-NDT) by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Nearing successful completion of the program, students are eligible to take national certification examinations conducted through the American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologists (ABRET). In the state of Wisconsin this is a requirement to enter the workforce. ABRET certification is recognized world-wide, providing opportunities to work internationally.

While many students complete their registry exams while in the program, they must seek licensure (if required) individually. Currently, no states require NDT licensure.

The program assumes no responsibility for the success of its students in obtaining professional certification or other types of professional licensure.

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