Course Details

West African College of Clinical Physiology Sciences (WACCPS)

Duration: 12 Months

Target Audience: Graduates of Human Physiology and other recognized related health disciplines

1. Programme Overview

1.1. Programme Title:

Professional Certification in Clinical Cardiac Physiology

1.2. Programme Objectives:

• To provide advanced training in cardiovascular physiology and diagnostic techniques.
• To develop expertise in non-invasive and assist in invasive cardiac investigations.
• To promote research and evidence-based practice in cardiac physiology.

1.3. Expected Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the programme, graduates will be able to:

• Perform and interpret electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, stress testing, Holter monitoring, and assist in cardiac catheterization.
• Assist in pacemaker implantation and electrophysiology studies.
• Understand hemodynamic monitoring in critical care settings.
• Conduct research in cardiovascular diagnostics and treatment.

2. Programme Structure

The 12-month programme consists of:

- 8 months of didactic lectures, practical sessions, and clinical rotations

- 4 months of research and oral defense

2.1. Course Modules

Module 1: Cardiovascular Physiology & Pathophysiology (2 Months)

• Cardiac anatomy and electrophysiology
• Hemodynamics and circulatory control
• Pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)
• Pharmacology of cardiovascular drugs

Module 2: Non-Invasive Cardiac Diagnostics (3 Months)

• Electrocardiography (ECG):
• Normal and abnormal ECG patterns
• Arrhythmias, ischemia, and infarction interpretation
• Echocardiography (Basic & Doppler):
• 2D, M-mode, and Doppler techniques
• Assessment of valvular diseases, cardiomyopathies, and congenital defects
• Stress Testing & Ambulatory Monitoring:
• Exercise and pharmacological stress tests
• Holter monitoring and event recorders

Module 3: Invasive & Advanced Cardiac Procedures (3 Months)

• Cardiac Catheterization & Angiography:
• Coronary angiography basics
• Hemodynamic measurements (pressure, oxygen saturation)
• Pacemaker & Electrophysiology Studies (EPS):
• Pacemaker programming and troubleshooting
• Basics of ablation therapy for arrhythmias
• Critical Care Cardiac Monitoring: Hemodynamic monitoring in ICU (Swan-Ganz, arterial lines)

Module 4: Research & Dissertation (4 Months)

• Research methodology in cardiac physiology
• Data collection and statistical analysis
• Writing and defending a dissertation

3. Teaching and Assessment Methods

3.1. Teaching Methods:

• Lectures, seminars, and case-based discussions
• Hands-on training with ECG, echocardiography, and catheterization lab equipment
• Clinical rotations in cardiology departments and
• Research supervision

3.2. Assessment Methods:

• Written Examinations (MCQs, Short & Long Essays)
• Practical Examinations (ECG interpretation, echocardiography basics, catheter lab procedures)
• Clinical Case Presentations
• Research & Oral Defense

4. Entry Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Physiology, or recognized health related fields
• Registration with a relevant professional organization (where applicable)
• Passing an entrance examination/interview

5. Certification

Successful candidates will be awarded:

Professional Certification in Clinical Cardiac Physiology by WACCPS

6. Accreditation and Quality Assurance

The curriculum aligns with International Education Accreditation Council (IEAC).

7. Career Prospects

Graduates can work as:

• Clinical Cardiac Physiologists/Scientists in hospitals, clinics and diagnostic centers
• Echocardiography/ECG Specialists
• Cardiac Catheterization Lab Technologists
• Researchers/Academics* in cardiovascular sciences

Conclusion:

This curriculum ensures that graduates acquire globally competitive skills in clinical cardiac physiology, addressing cardiovascular healthcare needs in West Africa and beyond.

Approved by:

West African College of Clinical Physiology Sciences (WACCPS)

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