Neurodiagnostics and Sleep Science
Neurodiagnostics and sleep science professionals record and study the electrical activity of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves as well as the function of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. They are involved with the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders, diagnosing nervous system disorders, and aiding in the diagnosis of behavioral and psychiatric disorders. Skills in analysis and problem-solving are critical for professionals in neurodiagnostics and sleep science. Sleep-related fields include sleep science, sleep technology, dental sleep medicine, psychology/psychiatry, neuroscience, and sleep products.
Sample Occupations
- Sleep Specialist
- Sleep Scientist
- Sleep Respiratory Therapist
- Sleep Neurologist
- Sleep Health Educator
- Polysomnographic Technologist
- Sleep Technologist
- Neurodiagnostic Technologist
- Behavioral Sleep Medicine Specialist
- Sleep Center Director
Types of Employers
- Sleep laboratories
- Sleep clinics
- Epilepsy labs
- Hospitals and hospital systems
- Medical group practices
- Educational institutions
- Research facilities
- Government
- Equipment design and manufacturing companies
Preparing for your career in
Complete an Associate degree. You must obtain an Associate degree before you can be admitted to UNC Charlotte’s Bachelor of Science degree program in Neurodiagnostics and Sleep Science.
Become a registered Polysomnographic or Electroencephalographic Technologist. Registration is required for admission to UNC Charlotte’s degree program in Neurodiagnostics and Sleep Science. Additional certifications that can be helpful include Certificate in Clinical Sleep Health (CCSH), and Sleep Disorders Specialist (SDS).
Develop your people, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Stay current on trends in the field. The CDC has declared insufficient sleep a public health problem. You can find interesting articles at https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-disorders-problems
Network with other professionals. Join and participate in one or more professional associations such as the American Association of Sleep Technologists.
How do I know if its right for me?
ASSESS: Take a career assessment, such as PathwayU, to see how your interests, values, and personality fit with majors and careers.
RESEARCH: Research the careers on this WCIDWAMI and thousands of other careers using O*Net Online, The Occupational Outlook Handbook or FirstHand.
EXPLORE: Learn more about a career field of interest by job shadowing, attending a career panel, or participating in a Career Trek. Further your exploration while gaining valuable skills by completing an internship, co-op, volunteer, or research experience.