Cardiovascular perfusion is a highly specialized and rewarding career path, but entry into the field is limited by the small number of accredited programs. Currently, there are only 23 perfusion education programs in the United States, accredited by the Accreditation Committee for Perfusion Education (ACPE) under CAAHEP. Because of this, admission is extremely competitive, and every program must meet rigorous standards to prepare graduates for certification by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP). This guide provides the complete list of accredited programs, grouped by reputation and history, along with the key factors to consider when choosing the right fit.

Top 23 Perfusion Schools In the US

1. Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)

MUSC offers one of the oldest and most respected perfusion programs in the U.S. Its Master’s curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical training, research, and leadership. Students rotate through MUSC’s high‑volume cardiac surgery center, gaining exposure to adult and pediatric cases, ECMO, and transplants. With small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship, graduates consistently achieve high board pass rates. MUSC’s reputation, clinical diversity, and academic rigor make it a premier choice for aspiring perfusionists nationwide.

2. University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)

UNMC’s perfusion program is nationally recognized for its strong clinical partnerships and rigorous Master’s curriculum. Students benefit from rotations at Nebraska Medicine, a high‑volume cardiac surgery center offering diverse cases including pediatric and transplant procedures. The program emphasizes evidence‑based practice, leadership, and research. With small cohorts and personalized mentorship, graduates consistently achieve strong board pass rates and job placement. UNMC’s long history and strong reputation make it a respected leader in perfusion education.

3. Rush University

Located in Chicago, Rush University’s perfusion program offers a Master’s degree with extensive clinical training at Rush University Medical Center and affiliated hospitals. Students gain exposure to complex cardiac cases, ECMO, and advanced technologies. The program emphasizes leadership, research, and patient‑centered care. With strong faculty mentorship and small class sizes, graduates consistently achieve high board pass rates and strong job placement. Rush’s reputation for excellence and its location in a major medical hub make it a top choice.

4. SUNY Upstate Medical University

SUNY Upstate’s perfusion program in Syracuse, New York, offers a Master’s degree with strong clinical training at Upstate University Hospital and regional affiliates. Students gain hands‑on experience with diverse cardiac cases, ECMO, and pediatric procedures. The program emphasizes evidence‑based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With small cohorts and personalized mentorship, graduates consistently achieve strong board pass rates and job placement. SUNY Upstate’s reputation and integration with a major academic medical center make it a respected program.

5. Texas Heart Institute / Baylor College of Medicine

The Texas Heart Institute, affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine, offers one of the most prestigious perfusion programs in the country. Students train at the renowned Texas Heart Institute, gaining exposure to high‑volume adult and pediatric cardiac cases, transplants, and ECMO. The program offers both Master’s and certificate options, emphasizing advanced clinical skills, leadership, and research. Graduates consistently achieve strong board pass rates and job placement. Its reputation and clinical diversity make it a premier destination.

6. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan’s perfusion program offers a Master’s degree with strong clinical training at Michigan Medicine, one of the nation’s leading academic medical centers. Students gain exposure to diverse cardiac cases, ECMO, and transplant procedures. The program emphasizes leadership, research, and evidence‑based practice. With small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship, graduates consistently achieve high board pass rates and job placement. Michigan’s reputation for excellence and clinical diversity make it a respected leader in perfusion education.

7. Midwestern University (Glendale, AZ)

Midwestern University’s perfusion program offers a Master’s degree with strong clinical training at affiliated hospitals across Arizona and beyond. Students gain hands‑on experience with diverse cardiac cases, ECMO, and advanced technologies. The program emphasizes leadership, evidence‑based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With small cohorts and personalized mentorship, graduates consistently achieve strong board pass rates and job placement. Midwestern’s reputation for excellence and supportive learning environment make it a respected choice for aspiring perfusionists.

8. Barry University (Miami Shores, FL)

Barry University’s perfusion program offers a Master’s degree with strong clinical training at affiliated hospitals in Florida and beyond. Students gain exposure to diverse cardiac cases, ECMO, and transplant procedures. The program emphasizes leadership, evidence‑based practice, and patient‑centered care. With small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship, graduates consistently achieve high board pass rates and job placement. Barry’s reputation for excellence and commitment to diversity make it a respected program in perfusion education.

9. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa offers a certificate program in perfusion, providing strong clinical training at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Students gain hands‑on experience with diverse cardiac cases, ECMO, and pediatric procedures. The program emphasizes evidence‑based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With small cohorts and personalized mentorship, graduates consistently achieve strong board pass rates and job placement. Iowa’s long history and integration with a major academic medical center make it a respected program.

10. Augusta University

Augusta University’s perfusion program offers a Master’s degree with strong clinical training at Augusta University Medical Center and affiliated hospitals. Students gain exposure to diverse cardiac cases, ECMO, and transplant procedures. The program emphasizes leadership, evidence‑based practice, and patient‑centered care. With small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship, graduates consistently achieve high board pass rates and job placement. Augusta’s reputation for excellence and supportive learning environment make it a respected choice for aspiring perfusionists.

 

Closing

Ultimately, the “best” perfusion program is not defined by name recognition but by the strength of its clinical training, case volume, and alignment with your personal goals. Since all accredited programs qualify graduates for board certification, focus on practical considerations: where you will rotate, the diversity of cases, faculty mentorship, and financial fit. Apply to multiple programs to maximize your chances, and prioritize those with strong hospital affiliations and high board pass rates. In perfusion, your skills, experience, and certification will define your career far more than the program’s prestige. Best of luck as you pursue this challenging and impactful profession.