Patient Care Technicians, or PCTs, work under the supervision of nurses, advanced practice personnel, and physicians to provide direct patient care of basic needs, draw labs, and perform electrocardiograms.
With successful program completion, students will be eligible to test for the following certifications through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT):
- Patient Care Technician Certification

Fast Facts
- 5 weeks in length.
- Spring 2025 cohorts starting January 6th, February 17th, March 31st, and May 12th.
- Fall 2025 cohorts starting July 7th, August 18th, September 29th, and November 10th.
- This program will operate 5 days a week, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Application deadlines vary by start date. See below for more information.
- Graduates from the BHCLR PCT program receive preferred admission status for the BHCLR Nursing and Practical Nursing programs.
Application Deadlines
Spring Cohort Start Date | Application Deadline | File Completion Deadline |
---|---|---|
January 6, 2025 | November 1, 2024 | November 15, 2024 |
February 17, 2025 | November 1, 2024 | November 15, 2024 |
March 31, 2025 | February 1, 2025 | February 15, 2025 |
May 12, 2025 | February 1, 2025 | February 15, 2025 |
Fall Cohort Start Date | Application Deadline | File Completion Deadline |
---|---|---|
July 7, 2025 | May 1, 2025 | May 15, 2025 |
August 18, 2025 | May 1, 2025 | May 15, 2025 |
September 29, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | August 15, 2025 |
November 10, 2025 | August 1, 2025 | August 15, 2025 |
Application Requirements
Below are the minimum application requirements for the Patient Care Technician program. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. The selection process is competitive and based on review and ranking of the applicant’s academic history. It is the applicant’s responsibility to turn in all required items for the program application process. Any additional requirements will be listed on your MyBHCLR portal.
- Application and file completion process must be completed by the designated deadlines.
- Must be a high school graduate or have GED and submit an official high school or GED transcript.
Immunization and CPR Requirements
Students are required to provide documentation of current Immunizations and Tuberculin skin testing results at time of enrollment. Immunizations and testing must remain current throughout enrollment. Required health information must be complete in order to attend class, skills laboratory, or clinical laboratory experiences.
All immunizations and CPR must be submitted prior to the first day of class. Students who fail to turn in these records by the deadline will not be eligible to begin the PCT program.
You may review required immunizations here.
FAQS
The Patient Care Technician (PCT) role differs from the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) role in level of specialized skill. A PCT is able to perform Electrocardiograms (EKGs) and Phlebotomy procedures as well as assist in certain procedures, such as sterile procedures and dialysis.
Often, CNAs work in long-term care facilities and PCTs work in a variety of settings including hospitals, medical offices, rehabilitation units, urgent care units, and intensive care units.
This program offers a structured learning environment, full-time faculty members, a variety of student support as you start your life-changing career in healthcare.
This formal program of study will also be a great introduction for students who may be interested in nursing, practical nursing or other allied health programs.
Click here to apply now!
You will be in class 5 days per week.
Qualified students have the opportunity to receive 100% of tuition and fees paid in exchange for a signed, one-year work contract with Baptist Health Medical Center – Little Rock, Baptist Health Medical Center – North Little Rock, and Baptist Health Medical Center- Conway.
For more information or questions about the PCT Program, please contact Courtney Walthall.
Earnings for Patient Care Technicians vary and depend on many factors including work setting, years of experience and geographical location. Please visit the US Department of Labor website to find out earning information.
PCT Admissions
admissions5@bhclr.edu