Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion

Laura Dell'Aiera, DHSc MHA, CCP, Division Director

The Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion (CVP) program prepares its graduates to work as certified clinical perfusionists (CCP) in a variety of health care settings where extracorporeal life support services are required. Perfusionists are typically employed in cardiac surgical centers and operate the heart-lung machine during open heart surgery. They serve as experts in associated technologies such as ventricular assist devices and are involved in many aspects of perioperative blood management.

As a graduate of the MUSC CVP program, you’ll become an essential member of the cardiothoracic surgical team. Extensive knowledge of anatomy, pharmacology, pathology and surgical techniques are keys to success. Perfusionists can specialize in areas of pediatric perfusion and mechanical circulatory support devices. The MUSC perfusion program provides extensive experience in both areas.

The MUSC perfusion program was started in 1979 by James P. Dearing and is considered one of the best programs in the country. This is evidenced by very high pass rates on the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion Certification Exam, a large number of research publications by the full-time faculty members, and a world class simulation facility for practicing perfusion techniques. In addition to clinical facilities at MUSC, students receive clinical training at highly recognized cardiac surgical centers across the country and abroad that serve as MUSC clinical affiliation sites.

Accreditation

The MUSC Cardiovascular Perfusion Program is accredited by the Commission of Allied Health EducationPrograms (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Committee for Perfusion Education (AC-PE).

Curriculum

Year 1, Fall A (8/18/25-12/19/25)

CVP700 Clinical Monitoring 3
CVP702 Perfusion Technology I 3
CVP704 Research Methodology 3
CVP706 Perioperative Blood Management 2
CVP721 Perfusion Technology I Lab 1
CVP718 Pathophysiology 5
CVP723 Clinical Monitoring Lab 1
IP711 IP Foundations & Teamstepps 1
IP### IP Concentration Course of Choice 1
Semester Total 20

Year 1, Spring (1/5/26-5/1/26)

CVP703 Perfusion Technology II 3
CVP703L Perfusion Technology II Lab 1
CVP708 Pathophysiology for Perfusion 4
CVP610 Pharmacology for Perfusion 4
CVP710 Fundamentals of Clinical Acid 1
CVP720 Advanced Pediatric Perfusion 2
CVP770 Masters Research Project II 3
CVP716 Seminar I 1
Semester Total 19

Year 1, Summer A, Trailer (5/4/26-8/14/26)

CVP714 Cardiac Assist Devices 2
CVP731 Extracorporeal Life Support 1
CVP733 Principles & Practices 3
CVP733L Principles & Practices Lab 1
CVP771 Masters Research Project III 3
CVP760 Clinical Experience I 6
CVP722 Perfusion Simulation 2
Semester Total 18

Year 2, Fall A (8/18/25-12/19/25)

CVP724 Quality Improvement & Inform 2
CVP762 Clinical Experience II A 6
CVP763 Clinical Experience II B 6
Semester Total 14

Year 2, Spring (1/5/26-5/1/26)

CVP728 Leadership & Health Services 2
CVP764 Clinical Experience III A 6
CVP765 Clinical Experience III B 6
Semester Total 14
Curriculum Total 85