Perfusion Technology

This is a 3+2 program where the students complete three years of course work at Lewis University and two years at Rush University. The program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Biology (B.S.) from Lewis University and a Master of Science in Perfusion Technology (M.S.) from Rush University. Perfusionists are highly skilled professionals who operate life-support equipment such as heart-lung machines, intra-aortic balloon pumps and ventricular assist devices during open heart surgery. As integral members of the cardiovascular surgical team, perfusionists are in the operating room in any situation where it is necessary to support or replace patients’ cardiopulmonary and circulatory functions. There is an expected expansion in job opportunities for perfusionists over the next several years. This is partly due to the rapidly aging baby-boom generation that will require more open-heart surgeries as they get older. Rush University College of Health Science and the Biology Department at Lewis University have an articulation agreement.

Rush University College of Health Sciences

Rush is a small private university integrated in Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois that offers more than 30 unique degree or certificate options in medicine, nursing, allied health and biomedical research. Since 1975, the College of Health Sciences (CHS) at Rush University has been responsible for education and research in the allied health professions. Rush seeks to provide the growing healthcare industry with superb health practitioners, managers, researchers and leaders. By integrating patient care, research, scholarship and service, they provide educational programs that rank among the very best in an energetic, academic medical center setting. Rush University is known for its practitioner-teacher model, translational research, nurturing academic environment and focus on community and global health.

The Department of Perfusion Technology provides students with the scientific knowledge and clinical experience needed to become successful professionals in the field of cardiovascular perfusionist.  Graduates of the Rush University perfusion technology program are prepared to fill the roles of chief perfusionists, researchers and educators in a variety of health care institutions.