Cardiovascular Perfusion Assistant Micro-Credential

Perfusion Assistant

Program at a glance:

Credential Earned: Micro-credential

Tuition:
Domestic (Ontario): $3,000
Out-of-Province: $5,000


Program Length: 13 Weeks (12 weeks of online learning followed by 3 days of in-person hands-on experience)


Start Date: November 3, 2025 (Nomination from Employer Required)


Application Deadline: October 15, 2025


About the Program

The Perfusion Assistant Micro-Credential provides healthcare professionals with the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience needed to support cardiovascular perfusion procedures. Participants will learn the core responsibilities of a perfusion assistant, including preparing equipment, assisting during surgery, and supporting post-operative care.
The curriculum emphasizes collaboration with the surgical team, adherence to safety protocols, and the use of specialized equipment such as cardiopulmonary bypass machines, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) systems, and cell salvage devices.
This 13-week course includes 12 weeks of online learning followed by 3 days of in-person simulated experience.
The course will run from November 3, 2025 to February 28, 2026.
Note: Enrollment in this program requires nomination and support from your hospital or healthcare organization.

Apply now on Michener Self-Service

Objectives/Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, the learner will be able to:

  • Understand the structure and function of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) equipment and systems
  • Demonstrate proficiency in assisting perfusionists before, during, and post-surgical procedures
  • Manage administrative and logistical duties related to perfusion
  • Safely support the setup and use of perfusion-related equipment (IABP, Cell Savers, VAD)
  • Collaborate with the team in ECMO-related emergency response and care
  • Outline & Format

    This 13-week program consists of 12 weeks of online learning, combining both synchronous and asynchronous sessions for a total of 3 hours per week. The final week includes 3 days of in-person hands-on simulated experience to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course.
    As participants are supported by employers, there is an expectation that knowledge and skill acquired will be incorporated into opportunities to practice and demonstrate within the lab.

    Who Is This Program Intended For?

    The ideal candidate will be a health care professional with the following background:

  • Professionals with a Bachelor of Science and hospital-based direct patient care experience
  • Other hospital-based professionals (e.g., Occupational/Physical Therapy Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Registered Practical Nurse (RPN)
  • Registered Nurse (RN)
  • Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), especially for centres interested in foundational ECMO knowledge
  • How To Apply

    Applications to the Cardiovascular Perfusion Assistant Micro-credential must be submitted via Michener Self-Service by October 15, 2025.

    The Cardiovascular Perfusion Assistant Micro-credential Nomination Form  must be submitted with your application by October 15, 2025. The nomination form requires information from your sponsoring hospital or healthcare organization.

    For more information on admission and document requirements, please email the admissions team at  admissions@michener.ca.