Not every healthcare career starts at the entry level. Some people begin their journey directly in mid-level roles that offer higher pay and specialized responsibilities from the start. Others transition into these certifications after gaining experience in entry-level jobs like CNA or Medical Assistant.
Mid-level healthcare certifications often require 1–2 years of training but do not always require prior healthcare employment. These programs are designed for students fresh out of high school, career changers, or those who want to build on an existing healthcare foundation.
Here are four of the most recognized mid-level healthcare certifications in 2025, with step-by-step guidance on how to earn them, what experience is needed, and where to find official resources. Looking for entry or advanced options? Explore our guides to Entry-Level Healthcare Certifications and Top Advanced Healthcare Certifications.
1. Radiologic Technologist (ARRT® Certification)
Why it’s in demand:
Diagnostic imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI) is essential to modern medicine. Hospitals and imaging centers rely on licensed, ARRT-certified technologists to deliver safe, high-quality imaging.
Relevant Roles:
Radiologic Technologist, X-ray Technologist, Imaging Specialist.
How to become an ARRT®-certified Radiologic Technologist (Step by Step):
1. Meet the basic requirement
- High school diploma or GED.
2. Complete an approved radiography program
- Where to find programs: Community colleges, universities, and hospital-based programs.
- Check program approval status: Use the JRCERT Program Search to confirm program accreditation; then confirm the program meets ARRT education requirements.
- Program length: Typically 2 years (associate degree); some institutions offer longer pathways such as bachelor’s programs.
3. Pass the ARRT® Radiography exam
- Exam covers patient care, safety, image production, and procedures.
4. Obtain state licensure (where required)
- Many states require a separate state license to practice. Apply via your state’s radiologic technology board.
Salary Range (BLS):
Median $67,180 per year (Radiologic and MRI Technologists).
Official Sites:
- ARRT® – Radiography Certification: https://www.arrt.org
- JRCERT Program Search: https://www.jrcert.org/students/program-search
- (State licensure) Search “[Your State] radiologic technologist license”.
2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
Why it’s in demand:
LPNs/LVNs deliver essential bedside care and support RNs in long-term care, rehab, home health, and clinics. Many use this credential as a bridge to RN.
Relevant Roles:
LPN, LVN, Charge Nurse (long-term care).
How to become an LPN/LVN (Step by Step):
1. Meet the basic requirement
- High school diploma or GED.
2. Complete a state-approved practical nursing program
- Where to find programs: Community colleges, vocational/technical schools, and some hospital-based schools.
- Check program approval status: On your State Board of Nursing (BON) website (via the NCSBN directory), confirm the program is on the state-approved Practical Nursing (PN) program list.
- Program length: Typically 12–18 months, including clinical hours.
3. Pass the NCLEX-PN® exam
- Exam covers safe and effective care, pharmacology, health promotion, and physiology.
4. Apply for state licensure
- Submit application, background check, and fees to your State Board of Nursing (BON); once licensed, you can practice as an LPN/LVN.
Salary Range (BLS):
Median $54,620 per year.
Official Sites:
- NCSBN – Boards of Nursing Directory & NCLEX-PN®: https://www.ncsbn.org
- (State approval) Your State Board of Nursing (BON) website.
3. Surgical Technologist (CST®)
Why it’s in demand:
Surgical technologists set up operating rooms, maintain sterile fields, and assist surgeons. Volume is rising in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers.
Relevant Roles:
Surgical Technologist, Operating Room Technician, OR Assistant.
How to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (Step by Step):
1. Meet the basic requirement
- High school diploma or GED.
2. Complete an accredited surgical technology program
- Where to find programs: Community colleges, vocational/technical schools, and universities.
- Check program approval status: Confirm the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) (via ARC/STSA) or ABHES, which is required for NBSTSA CST® eligibility.
- Program length: 12–24 months (certificate or associate degree) with labs and clinical rotations.
3. Pass the CST® exam (NBSTSA)
- Covers preoperative/intraoperative/postoperative procedures, asepsis, instrumentation, and safety.
4. Maintain certification
- Renewal every 4 years (continuing education or re-exam).
Salary Range (BLS):
Median $55,960 per year.
Official Sites:
- NBSTSA – CST® Certification: https://www.nbstsa.org
- CAAHEP Program Directory: https://www.caahep.org/students/find-an-accredited-program
- ABHES Accredited Institutions/Programs: https://abhes.org
4. Certified EKG Technician (CET)
Why it’s in demand:
The demand for EKG technicians is fueled by the growing need for cardiac care across hospitals, outpatient cardiology clinics, and diagnostic centers. As heart disease continues to be one of the leading health concerns in the U.S., employers value CETs for their ability to perform critical patient monitoring and diagnostic testing. The certification provides a versatile pathway—serving as an entry-level credential for those starting in healthcare, while also acting as a mid-level specialization for professionals like Medical Assistants or Nursing Assistants who want to expand their skills and advance their careers.
Relevant Roles:
EKG Technician, Cardiac Monitoring Technician, Stress Test Technician.
How to become a CET (Step by Step):
1. Meet the basic requirement
- High school diploma or GED.
2. Complete an EKG technician training program
- Where to find programs: Vocational/technical schools, community colleges, and hospital-based programs.
- Check program approval status: Verify the school’s institutional accreditation (regional/national), confirm the curriculum aligns with NHA exam eligibility, and ask for externship partners and pass rates.
- Program length: Typically 8–16 weeks.
3. Pass the CET exam
- Administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) → nhanow.com
- Exam covers patient preparation, EKG administration, equipment safety, and cardiac monitoring.
4. Gain hands-on experience
- Programs often include clinical externships; employers prefer verified clinical hours.
Salary Range (BLS):
Median $44,630 per year (Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians).
Official Site:
- NHA – Certified EKG Technician (CET): https://www.nhanow.com
Final Thoughts
Certifications like Radiologic Technologist, LPN/LVN, and CST® can be pursued directly after high school or as a career upgrade after entry-level healthcare experience. These programs generally take 12–24 months and lead to stable, higher-paying jobs that also serve as stepping stones to advanced roles like RN, advanced imaging technologist, or surgical first assistant. Protect your education investment by always checking program approval status with the official bodies.
Ready for the next step? Explore Top Advanced Healthcare Certifications, or if you’re just starting out, check out Entry-Level Healthcare Certifications.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Certification names, requirements, testing procedures, and salary data may change at any time. JobCertifications.com is not affiliated with and does not control the certifying organizations or state agencies mentioned, and is not responsible for any actions taken by those entities. Always verify details directly with your state’s regulatory body and the official certification provider before enrolling or scheduling an exam.
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