Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion

Curriculum

Clinical Education

In the final year of the program, students will progress through 4 clinical rotations where they will complete live clinical cardiopulmonary bypass cases and gain additional experience with extracorporeal technology. Each student will complete at least 75 clinical pump cases, ten pediatric cases and five ventricular assist device or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) cases. The program works with high-quality clinical affiliates around the country to provide students with clinical experiences in neonatal, infant, pediatric and adult perfusion, heart, liver; and lung transplantation, ECMO, ventricular assist devices and autotransfusion. Travel is required during the final year of the program.

Clinical rotations are aimed at building competence in fundamental clinical skill development. The practice and feedback acquired through our valued clinical affiliates will enhance the confidence necessary to graduate and independently deliver safe perfusion care.

For Clinical Instructors

Become a Clinical Instructor

You can help prepare future perfusionists and make an impact on our profession. The CVP program is always looking for new opportunities to provide clinical instruction for our students. Clinical instructors are an integral part of the teaching program. Instructors will serve as role models for the student and, through guidance and teaching, will help students prepare autonomous, compassionate, competent and ethical entry-level perfusionists.

We are currently seeking clinical instructors for all cardiac surgical procedures. If you are interested in becoming a clinical instructor, please contact William Dauch via email at dauch@musc.edu; or telephone at 843-792-8404.

Clinical Instructor Toolbox

Clinical Education Manual (PDF)

Class of 2026 Clinical Practicum Schedule

Evaluation Tools

• CORE

Resources

• Blood Borne Pathogen Exposures
• ACORD Form
• Characteristics of a Successful Clinical Affiliate
• Clinical Instructor Qualifications and Responsibilities

Clinical Excellence Awards

• Perfusionist of the Year: Jason Tatum, Ascension St. Vincent's Riverside Hospital, Jacksonville, Florida
• Clinical Site of the Year Award: Roper Hospital, Charleston, South Carolina

Perfusion Simulation

High-fidelity simulation significantly increases student skills and confidence prior to clinical rotations. Our faculty have presented and published extensively in the area of patient safety and the advantages of high-fidelity simulation in perfusion education. Learn more about the benefits of the simulation experience for our perfusion students.

Advanced Simulation Technology

The program has two simulation labs that each utilize state-of-the-art Califia perfusion simulator technology to recreate complex cardiac and circulatory systems. These high-fidelity cardiopulmonary bypass simulators can be used for both student practice and evaluation. Students benefit from the ability to replicate physiological responses and allow for the practice of perfusion techniques in a controlled environment.

Clinical Integration

Simulation experiences are integrated throughout the curriculum, complementing classroom instruction and clinical rotations. Students have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge and practice perfusion skills in simulated clinical scenarios, preparing them for success in real-world health care settings.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Our cardiovascular perfusion program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to work closely with other health care professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists and nurses. This collaborative approach mirrors real-world clinical settings and prepares students for effective teamwork in the operating room.

Research Opportunities

Our program curriculum includes extensive training in the area of research. Students will learn how to take a research project from idea to manuscript. Prior experience in research is not necessary as the foundations of project development, analysis and dissemination will all be taught within the curriculum. Many students will have the opportunity to move their manuscripts to publication once complete.

Prerequisites

*It is recommended that applicants complete at least six hours of Mathematics coursework.

Additional Notes

• Advance placement and dual enrollment courses are accepted for prerequisite coursework.

Shadow a Perfusionist

An admissions requirement for the entry-level Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion is to complete a shadow log after shadowing a perfusionist. We do not require that the shadowing experience be done at MUSC, yet if you would like to shadow with us, please read below for further instructions.

In order to shadow at MUSC, please email your request to roperde@musc.edu:

• Please note that we schedule shadowing on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays only. Under Specific Date and Time Available on the Career Exploration Request form, we ask that you provide at least three dates that you would be available to shadow.
• Due to an increase in shadowing requests, please understand that your preferred dates may not be available. Requests are processed as they are received, and it is recommended that you begin the process well in advance of your desired date or deadline.

After your paperwork has been approved and your date confirmed, we will email you back with further directives in preparation for your shadowing experience at MUSC. Please note, we allow one shadowing opportunity per application cycle.

Frequently Approved Prerequisites

Before applying, it's essential to ensure that any prior coursework meets the admissions requirements. MUSC provides a helpful reference list of frequently approved prerequisite courses to guide you in understanding which classes may satisfy your program's requirements. To explore the list, visit our Frequently Approved Prerequisites page.

Application Process

The following process outlines how and when your materials will be reviewed.

1. Submit the MUSC application.
2. Submit all supplemental materials, if not included within the application.
3. Once all materials have been received and verified, your application will be reviewed. Applicants are typically notified of their application evaluation and admissions decision within four weeks after the application deadline.

Only completed applications will be reviewed. Competitive, qualified applicants will be invited for an interview. If selected for an interview, the applicant will be notified of the interview process as the dates approach. After interviews have been conducted, acceptance offers will be sent in March or April.

Application Requirements

1. MUSC Application: All applicants must submit an MUSC application.
   
   • Log of Cardiovascular Perfusion Shadowing Experience: All applicants must upload a log detailing their shadowing experience. A blank log may be found here and must be uploaded with their application.
   • Official transcripts from all institutions attended
2. Supplemental Materials: Applicants will need to submit supplemental materials. These will be sent to the applicant via email once an application has been successfully completed.
   
   • Letters of recommendation: All applicants must provide three professional references from individuals who know them or their abilities. These can be from employers, health care providers, professors, or other individuals who have seen the applicant interact with patients.
   • Personal essay: All applicants must write a brief essay, not to exceed 500 words, explaining your interest in the program, past related experiences and why you believe you are a good candidate for the profession. The applicant should also describe the resources used in researching perfusion as a career choice.
   • Resume: All applicants must provide an updated resume detailing relevant academic and professional experience, including work experience, volunteer experience, community/extracurricular/professional activities, professional memberships, hospital committees, community organizations, etc. and any publications, research projects, honors and awards.
   • TOEFL scores: Official copy of your TOEFL scores if English is not your native language and you have not studied within the United States.

All information above must be received by the deadline to be considered for admission to the program. Without all materials, applications will be incomplete. It is the applicant's responsibility to review the progress of their application to ensure that all application materials have been submitted.

Pathway Programs

MUSC partners with a number of technical and four-year colleges throughout South Carolina to create streamlined and/or accelerated opportunities for students interested in pursuing advanced education. Visit the CHP Pathway & Partnership Programs page to learn more.

Current CVP pathway & partnership programs:

• 3 years at Clemson + 2 years at MUSC
• 3 years at Coastal Carolina + 2 years at MUSC

International Applicants

MUSC welcomes international applicants and offers tailored guidance to support you throughout the admission process. View details at International Applicants.

Cost of Attendance

Disclaimer: The Estimated Total listed above reflects an approximation of educational costs for planning purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on individual circumstances, program requirements and annual changes in tuition, fees and other costs. The Medical University of South Carolina reserves the right to adjust tuition, fees and other charges at any time without prior notice.

Scholarships

MUSC offers scholarships for which you may be eligible. Some are awarded based on academic achievement; others are awarded based on community service, for example. However, the majority of scholarships awarded at MUSC are based on financial need. This means that these scholarships are only awarded to students who need some financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and fees. If you would like to be considered for a financial need-based scholarship, you must have an up-to-date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. Make sure you list the Medical University of South Carolina on your FAFSA form, along with MUSC's code: 003438. We encourage you to submit your FAFSA as early as possible. It is recommended to submit your FAFSA in January if you plan to enroll in the fall.

Click here to visit our scholarship application system to view a complete listing of MUSC scholarships.

Competencies

Upon completion of the MS-CVP program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the patient’s history, pathophysiology, laboratory values and pharmacology as evidenced by formation of a patient care plan with minimal supervision.
• Select the proper equipment and supplies, assemble and prime the perfusion circuit using sterile technique and prepare for surgery under minimal supervision.
• Initiate cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), manage CPB, including hemodynamics, blood gases, electrolytes, anticoagulation, temperature and terminate CPB according to protocol with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate knowledge and safe operation of adjunctive devices for blood management, ultrafiltration, myocardial protection and extracorporeal life support (ECLS) with minimal supervision.
• Maintain professional conduct and communication with patients and staff.

Vision

To improve the health of populations by developing and inspiring health scientists and leaders.

Mission

To prepare competent and compassionate clinical perfusionists who are dedicated to quality patient care, employing best practice methods, interprofessional collaboration and outcomes research.

Values

At the core of our program, we are guided by a commitment to the following values that drive our mission:

• Compassion: We act with kindness, empathy and dignity.
• Collaboration: We achieve common goals through teamwork and partnerships.
• Innovation: We drive transformation by embracing new ideas, discoveries and practices.
• Integrity: We do the right thing and commit to accountability in words, actions and use of resources.
• Respect: We value everyone and their many perspectives to build trust and a sense of belonging.