Program Information
-
Location: Downtown Milwaukee Campus
- Pathway: Healthcare
- Program Code: 31-517-1
- Offering: In-Person
- Degree Type: Technical Diploma
- Start Dates: August
About the Renal Dialysis Technician Diploma
This program is not BEING OFFERED DURING the 2025-26 academic year
Prepare for a healthcare career as a renal dialysis technician (RDT). Under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, RDTs set up dialysis equipment, prepare dialysate solutions, perform venipuncture and monitor patient responses during the procedure. RDTs also are responsible for quality control and maintenance of the equipment.
Employment opportunities exist in hospitals or freestanding dialysis centers.
This program features exploratory courses that count toward a credential. Contact an MATC advisor for information.
Additional program details: Renal dialysis is a treatment for patients with kidney failure. RDTs, under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, are responsible for setting up equipment, preparing dialysate solutions, performing venipuncture, and monitoring patient responses during the procedure. In addition, RDTs are responsible for cleaning, quality control, and maintenance of dialysis equipment.
Be aware that this program and occupational field have potential for exposure to blood; job-related duties require manual dexterity, and physical strength and endurance to perform a variety of lifting and transferring tasks related to patient care treatments.
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Detailed Program Information
2021-22 Curriculum
| Course | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENG-195 | Written Communication (or) ENG-201 English 1 ‡ |
3 |
| HEALTH-101 | Medical Terminology * | 3 |
| PSYCH-199 | Psychology of Human Relations * (or) PSYCH-231 Introductory Psychology |
3 |
| RDIAT-302 | Renal Failure and Support Therapies ‡ | 3 |
| RDIAT-304 | Hemodialysis Laboratory Procedures ‡ | 1 |
| RDIAT-320 | Introduction to Renal Dialysis ‡ | 3 |
| RDIAT-321 | Principles of Renal Dialysis 1 ‡ | 4 |
| RDIAT-322 | Principles of Renal Dialysis 2 ‡ | 3 |
| RDIAT-323 | Clinical Practicum 1 ‡ | 2 |
| RDIAT-324 | Clinical Practicum 2 ‡ | 3 |
|
TOTAL CREDITS |
28 |
‡ Prerequisite required.
* It is strongly recommended that these courses be completed prior to entering the program.
Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.
Current MATC students should consult their Academic Program Plan for specific curriculum requirements.
Search for available classes now (link) to see course descriptions, class times and locations.
Already a student? You can visit Self-Service (link) and choose Student Planning to register for classes.
Important Dates
Deadlines and important dates can be found on:
Cost & Aid Deadlines
Also, you can find dates and deadlines on the MATC Events Calendar
Program Outcomes
- Adhere to infection control and safety principles
- Demonstrate safe operation of renal dialysis treatment machine and related equipment
- Demonstrate competent and safe patient care skills
- Model professionalism as a renal dialysis technician
Career Outlook
Renal Dialysis Technicians (RDTs) are in high demand and find employment in hospitals or freestanding dialysis centers. For additional career information, visit kidney.org.
Possible Careers
Dialysis TechnicianPatient Care Technician (PCT)
Renal Dialysis Technician (RDT)
Renal Technician
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT)
Admission Requirements
- One year of high school biology or one semester of college-level biology with a
grade of C or higher.
Scholarships
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Healthcare Academic & Career Pathway
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