Polysomnography Technology--More About the Program

Moraine Valley Community College's Polysomnography program allows students to learn about sleep, sleep disorders and the knowledge, skills and behaviors needed to become a polysomnography technologist.  The curriculum includes cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology, normal and abnormal sleep, and diagnostic and therapeutic techniques performed by polysomnographic technologists. Students also learn about sleep as a public health issue, evidence based practice and advocacy. Students gain experience performing sleep studies an a clinical setting.

This certificate program’s core courses begin in fall and finish in the spring semester. 

Health Science programs conduct a rigorous curriculum of lectures, labs, and clinical experiences. Clinical experiences are conducted at a variety of hospitals and sleep-disorders centers. Clinical rotations will be 12-hour, overnight assignments, with no flexibility in scheduling. Therefore, holding a full-time job while in the program may affect your success and is not encouraged. However, you can complete the requirements of the program as a part-time student. 

All health sciences programs require clinical time at various health care sites. Students will be required complete a health history and physical examination, maintain CPR health care provider status, and carry current health insurance. 

This program is intended to lead to employment. If you are considering obtaining an associate's degree or transferring to a four-year college or university to obtain a bachelor's degree using courses from this program, make an appointment with an academic advisor to review your options.

Nature of work
The Polysomnography Program prepares graduates for careers in sleep disorders. Polysomnograhpic technologists are specialists who work in sleep disorders centers. Technologists operate, monitor and troubleshoot computerized sleep equipment, collecting and analyzing physiologic patient data. PSG technicians also work closely with physicians and other sleep specialists participating in patient education and treatment plan coordination. Most PSG positions are on a 10- or 12-hour midnight schedule. This career choice should be made after careful consideration of the nature of the hours and your desire and ability to work the night shift.

Employment Outlook
With the number of sleep lab beds increasing employment opportunities for qualified sleep technologists are outstanding. For current national polysomnography salary information, go to www.advanceforsleep.com.