Polysomnography Technology

Up to 70 million U.S. adults have a sleep disorder, according to the American Sleep Association. Identifying and treating sleep disorders using technology is a rapidly growing area in the health care field. As a polysomnographic technologist, you will work with physicians to identify, diagnose and provide treatment for sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia. The OCC Career Advantage associate degree program prepares you to enter the field, and can also provide cross-training options for neurodiagnostic and respiratory care technologists. Experienced, skilled sleep technicians and technologists earn a median annual wage of $67,600. If you see yourself helping others improve their quality of life through a good night’s sleep, read on to learn what training OCC has to offer in this important, growing health care career.

A sampling of courses for these careers

Medical Terminology
Polysomnography Basics
Pulmonary Pathology

Respiratory Anatomy and Physiology
Abnormal Psychology
Applied Pharmacology

see course catalog

Polysomnographic technologist checks in on a sleeping patient who is monitored by medical equipment

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Did you know?

Projected employment for clinical lab technicians such as polysomnography technicians in California is expected to increase by 23 percent through 2024, much faster than average, according to O*Net Online

Program Details

Complete one of our associate degree programs, and you’ll be well-prepared to enter a career in polysomnography technology.

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In less than 2 years
you can earn:
Certificate of Achievement

Build on your certificate
of achievement with a:
Certificate of Specialization

Or earn your
associate degree
in under 4 years

Polysomnography Technology

Prepare for an entry-level position as a polysomnographic technologist, working in a profession that diagnoses and treats disorders of sleep and daytime alertness. Learn to operate a variety of sophisticated electronic monitoring devices that record brain activity, muscle and eye movement, respiration, blood oxygen and other physiological events. This program accepts new students to begin in the fall semester of odd years. View program detail in course catalog.

Polysomnography Cross-Training Option

If you are a Neurodiagnostic Technology graduate looking to cross-train as a polysomnographic technologist, this program is for you. Upon completing the cross-training courses, you will earn an additional Associate in Science in Polysomnography. View program detail in course catalog.

Respiratory Care Cross-Training Option

If you are a Respiratory Care graduate looking to cross-train as a polysomnographic technologist, this program is for you. Upon completing the cross-training courses, you will earn an additional Associate in Science in Polysomnography. View program detail in course catalog.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I enroll and register for classes?

To enroll in a Career Advantage program, you must first apply for admission to Orange Coast College. To apply, go to the Admissions Application Information webpage and review the information and requirements for admission. A link at the bottom of that page will take you to the CCCApply website, where you will be prompted to create an account so you can begin the application process.

How much does it cost?

Classes cost $46 per unit for residents of California. Classes vary in their unit value, but an average 3-unit class costs $138. There are additional fees required to register and additional costs associated with each program. Click here to view the estimated total costs of the program in this career cluster.

How long does it take?

View this chart for the length of the core program.

Are classes offered online, evenings and weekends?

This program offers courses on evenings and weekends. For details about offerings in this program, speak to a counselor or consult the class schedule. The class schedule tool searches through all Orange Coast College course offerings and includes a filter for online classes.

How can I talk with a counselor?

You can make an appointment in person, online or by phone. Click here for more information about Counseling Services and how to make an appointment.

I have more questions. Where can I get more information?

For general questions about enrollment, availability of classes and other services for prospective and current OCC students, call The Answer Center at 714-432-5772. For answers to specific questions you can speak to a counselor or to the faculty member listed on this program page.

A student places electrodes on a training-manikin head

Polysomnographic technologist places electrodes on a man wearing a EEG cap

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Did you know?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a certificate as
their highest level of education earned, on average, 20 percent more than
those whose highest education level is a high school diploma.