Can You Train as a PCT 100% Online? What You Need to Know
So, you want to become a Patient Care Technician (PCT), but you’re wondering—can you really do it all online? With remote learning booming and more people juggling work, kids, and life in general, online training sounds ideal. But when it comes to hands-on healthcare roles like PCTs, the answer isn’t as simple as a click-and-go enrollment. Here’s what you need to know before signing up for a 100% online PCT course.
First, What Does a PCT Actually Do?
A Patient Care Technician works alongside nurses and doctors to provide basic patient care. Think of tasks like checking vital signs, helping with mobility, drawing blood, assisting during procedures, or even supporting patients emotionally during recovery. It’s hands-on work that requires both technical skills and empathy. Many PCTs work in hospitals, nursing homes, dialysis centers, or long-term care facilities.
Because the role is so practical, training usually combines classroom knowledge with hands-on experience. That’s where online learning can get tricky.
Can You Learn the Theory Online? Absolutely.
The good news? A big chunk of PCT training is classroom-based and perfect for online learning. Subjects like:
Anatomy and physiology
Medical terminology
Infection control
Patient rights and communication
Basic EKG interpretation
Healthcare ethics and HIPAA compliance
These modules can easily be delivered through video lectures, digital textbooks, quizzes, and discussion forums. Many online PCT programs even include interactive case studies and simulations to help reinforce learning.
If you’re a visual or self-paced learner, this part of online training can actually be a major advantage. You can pause, rewind, and revisit tricky concepts anytime, anywhere.
But What About Hands-On Skills?
Here’s the catch: you can’t draw blood, insert catheters, or practice CPR on a mannequin through a screen. These clinical skills need in-person training. While some schools advertise “fully online” PCT programs, read the fine print. Most of them are technically hybrid programs.
Typically, these programs will deliver the theory online, but then require you to:
Attend an on-site skills lab (usually for a few days or weekends)
Complete a clinical externship or practicum at an approved healthcare facility
This hybrid format ensures that you’re not just passing multiple-choice tests but are physically competent to care for patients safely.
How Do Hybrid Online PCT Programs Work?
Most accredited PCT online programs follow a structure like this:
1. Online Coursework (6–12 weeks)
You complete reading, quizzes, video modules, and virtual discussions at your own pace or on a weekly schedule.
2. Skills Lab (1–2 weeks)
You go to a physical campus or partner facility to practice essential tasks like drawing blood, operating EKG machines, assisting with daily patient care, and using medical equipment correctly.
3. Clinical Externship (80–160 hours)
You’re placed at a hospital, long-term care center, or dialysis unit to work under supervision. This is a crucial part of your training and a great networking opportunity for job placement.
What If You Can’t Attend In-Person?
Some students live in remote areas, care for family, or simply can’t take time off to attend in-person labs. If that’s your case, consider these options:
Local partnerships: Some programs let you arrange clinical hours with a nearby facility, even if it’s not directly affiliated with the school.
Bridge programs: Start with a fully online Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Medical Assistant (MA) course, then build up to PCT through local hands-on training later.
Regional training centers: Some online schools offer intensive weekend labs in major cities. You travel once and complete everything in a few days.
The key is flexibility—but also realism. You will need to touch medical equipment and work with real people at some point before becoming a PCT.
Are Employers Okay with Online Training?
Generally, yes—as long as your program is:
Accredited or state-approved
Includes hands-on clinical experience
Prepares you for recognized certifications like the NHA’s CPCT/A (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant)
What employers care about is whether you’re competent, certified, and experienced—not whether your anatomy class was on Zoom. Many students trained online during the pandemic and were still successfully hired.
In fact, some healthcare employers now prefer candidates with flexible learning experience—it shows initiative and adaptability.
How Much Does Online PCT Training Cost?
Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 depending on the school, length of program, and included certifications. Be cautious of programs that seem suspiciously cheap or promise “guaranteed certification” without practical training.
Also check:
Whether textbooks, scrubs, CPR certification, and exams are included
If financial aid, payment plans, or military/veteran discounts are available
Refund policy in case you can’t attend the in-person portion
So, Can You Really Train as a PCT 100% Online?
Short answer: Not entirely.
Real answer: You can do most of the learning online—but you’ll need to show up in person for the essential, life-saving skills.
That’s not a flaw—it’s a safety standard. And it means when you do show up for your first hospital shift, you’ll know exactly what you’re doing.
Final Takeaway: What You Should Do Next
✅ Research hybrid programs with solid reputations
✅ Ask about clinical placement support
✅ Make sure the course preps you for national certification
✅ Don’t fall for “no hands-on” shortcuts—they’ll cost you later
✅ Reach out to admissions reps and ask lots of questions
The journey to becoming a PCT is more flexible than ever—but it still requires effort, time, and real-life practice. If you’re ready to commit, online learning can be the first step toward a rewarding and in-demand healthcare career.
