Clinical Neurophysiology Education & Training Program
The MUSC Health Clinical Neurophysiology (CNPS) Education and Training Program is a one-year, hospital-based certificate program for those interested in a career in neurodiagnostics.
About the Program
Neurodiagnostics
This entry-level neurodiagnostic program currently includes electroencephalogram (EEG) and intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) training. EEG and IONM specialists are in high demand both state and nationwide.
EEG is a critical diagnostic assessment for several neurological conditions, performed in outpatient, inpatient, or intraoperative settings.
IONM specializes in surgeries where the nervous system is at risk, with the goal of catching neurological injury in real-time to prevent negative post-operative outcomes.
Our EEG and IONM training pathways consist of three semesters (1 year) which include:
- Didactic lectures
- Hands-on simulation laboratory experience
- In-person clinical rotations alongside certified specialists
- During the final semester, students will prioritize clinical hours until eligible to sit for their board exam
The Clinical Neurophysiology Education and Training Program plans to join the few universities striving to improve and standardize education for these fields. The application window is now projected for Spring, 2026. If planning to apply, students are encouraged to shadow as soon as possible.
At A Glance
Redefine and elevate the standards for neurodiagnostic education and training through patient-centered care, research, innovation, and advocacy.
Excellence
We pledge to create and evolve an education and training program of the highest national and professional standards for the field of neurodiagnostics.
Integrity
We are committed to fostering an environment of honesty, respect, diversity, transparency, and accountability for ourselves, our students, and the field of neurodiagnostics.
Education
We are devoted to lifelong education, scholarship, and diverse academic environments in our ever-growing health care institution and beyond.
Collaboration
We instill an environment of partnership, team engagement, and interpersonal support between medical and industry professionals, students, and diverse organizations.
Growth
We are dedicated to the continued advancement, opportunity, success, and professional development of our students and ourselves beyond expectations.
Be the forerunner in evidence-based neurodiagnostic education and training to shift the paradigm, raise quality of care, and develop skilled clinicians.
Collaborations
The MUSC Health Clinical Neurophysiology Education and Training Program prides itself on collaboration and promotes integration of patient care, education, and research across the enterprise to elevate the field of neurodiagnostics and careers throughout the neuroscience community.
Meet our collaborators:
Neurophysiology Services
Electroencephalogram Curriculum
Transfer of Credits: We do not accept or recognize credits or course work from any other neurodiagnostic program toward the requirements of certification.
Anatomy & Physiology
3 credits
Introduction to anatomy and physiology with a focus on central nervous system anatomy and vasculature, basic cell anatomy with a focus on neurons, bioelectrical concepts and the production of EEG signals. This will be done through the lens of some basic pathologies. Students will utilize advanced didactic learning technologies, such as 3D software, to better understand anatomy, physiology and EEG signal production concepts.
Basic EEG Concepts & Normal EEG
3 credits
Introduction to basic EEG concepts such as montages, polarity rule, frequency ranges, analog to digital conversion, electrical safety and filters with a focus on the normal EEG and how these concepts interact to create an EEG recording. Students will be able to describe a normal awake, drowsy and sleep EEG, explaining how the EEG recording is constructed and how changing filters will change the recording and when to utilize these changes on the EEG.
Modalities
2 Credits
Students will be introduced to the international 10-20 standard head measurement with hands on learning of effective measuring technique and standard 10-20 nomenclature, learning the importance of placement. Students will be required to pass measurement assessments in accords with current standards. Students will learn on trouble shooting measuring pitfalls and how to clean up patients when done. During this time the students will also learn how to operate standard equipment, and how to conduct a routine EEG from beginning to end including how to gather relevant history, running an EEG and performing activations. There will also be an introduction lab procedures and safety, understanding of MSDS, an introduction to safe handling of chemicals used in EEG labs.
Legal, Ethics, Professionalism & Communications
2 credits
In this course students will be introduced to concepts of legality, ethics and communication in the medical field. Students will learn about HIPAA, patients rights and basic legal procedures. Students will also be introduced to effective and appropriate communication with patients based on age and mental status on explaining the EEG procedure and giving clear directions; ethical communication will also be covered, introducing students to the scope of practice of technologists. Students will also be introduced to the clinical site and preceptors and will start working with adult patients under supervision.
Pediatric EEG
3 Credits
Introduction to the EEG of pediatric populations through the ages from neonatal to teenage years and discussion of the importance of the emergence of the organization of the EEG as a person age in the context of some basic developmental anatomy and physiology. Introduction to pediatric seizure and neurological conditions, complications during birth and the effect on the nervous system, special recording conditions in the pediatric population and neonatal age determination.
Intermediate EEG Concepts & the Abnormal EEG
3 credits
In this class students will be introduced to the abnormal EEG and the pathological reason for the abnormalities with a focus on learning seizure and interictal identification; Seizure and neurological disorders will also be covered. Students will also be introduced to the ICU and epilepsy monitoring unit environments learning the difference between long term and EMU monitoring, the indications for each, unique safety concerns to each environment, artifact identification and elimination techniques. Antiseizure medications and sedative medications will be discussed in usage and indications. Introduction into the reading of the EKG will be taught.
Modalities 2
2 credits
A continuation of working in lab with a focus on putting class work into practice by using templates to write out practice reports on a sample routine EEG and introducing the standard ICU nomenclature, Quantitative EEG analysis and ambulatory EEGs. Students will need to continue passing measurement assessments with shorter time allowed. Students will also be introduced to basic understanding of other neurodiagnostic testing modalities: IONM, Nerve conduction, evoked potentials, Polysomnography and Magnetoencephalography. Students will continue work with preceptors to gather routine EEG cases.
Clinical Hours & Mentorship
3 credits
Students will work with an assigned preceptor at designated times during this course with the requirement of rotation between Children’s and adult hospitals and working with more advanced EEG procedures such as LTM and EMU patients.
Weekly EEG Samples
1 credit
In this course, each week students will provide an EEG sample from a case they encountered with a description of the sample and the reasoning or pathology behind what is being seen on the sample.
Semester Project
1 credit
In this course students will be required to choose a neurological or seizure condition, either adult or pediatric, and conduct research on the topic presenting a paper or power point (do not have to do a presentation) on the condition. The progress of this project will be monitored as the semester progresses, so that topics such as effective research, literature review and case study can be discussed with a final project due at the end of the semester.
Advanced EEG Concepts & Procedures
3 credits
This course will focus on advanced EEG testing and procedures such as tests involved with epilepsy surgery planning, intracranial EEG interpretation, safety and complications, stimulation mapping. Additional seizure treatment options such are neuromodulation devices will also be covered. This class will also cover the future of the EEG field, future treatment options.
Clinical Hours & Mentorship
3 credits
During this class it will be expected that students will be more independent but still under supervision of an assigned preceptor. Students will be expected to be setting up routines, ICU LTM patients and Emu patients During this class, students will be expected to try to shadow one advanced EEG procedure to witness class work in practice. Measure assessments will continue during this time, with a reduced time allowed for head measurement.
Weekly EEG Samples
1 credit
In this course, each week students will provide an EEG sample from a case they encountered with a description of the sample and the reasoning or pathology behind what is being seen on the sample.
Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Curriculum
Transfer of Credits: We do not accept or recognize credits or course work from any other neurodiagnostic program toward the requirements of certification.
Anatomy & Physiology
3 credits
Introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the human body, with focused exploration of the nervous, vascular, and muscular systems. Students will utilize a variety of advanced learning techniques, such as didactic lectures with 3D and VR software, to gain hands-on understanding of anatomical concepts and their relation to neurophysiology.
Modalities I
3 credits, lab included
Introduction to and detailed learning of basic intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. Students will be introduced to the concepts of head measurement, electrode placement, fundamental modalities in relation to anatomy and physiology, and the basics of data acquisition. In lab, students will gain hands-on experience with the IONM machine, equipment placement, and the basic concepts of data acquisition.
Neuropharmacology & Physiology
3 credits
Introduction to pharmacological and physiological concepts and their relation to nervous, vascular, and muscular systems. Students will learn anesthetic pharmacology and physiology, how these factors affect patient physiology, and their effects on IONM modalities.
Ethics, Professionalism, Conduct & Communication
3 credits
Understanding and practicing the concepts of ethics, safety, professional behavior, operating room etiquette, operating room roles, and appropriate communication. Students will learn the professional and ethical expectations within medical practice and IONM. These concepts include but are not limited to patient protections, national rules and regulations, HIPPA, and safety concerns alongside communication and documentation concepts and standards.Students will be introduced to the operating room and preceptors for observation of lecture concepts.
Electrical Concepts, Templates & Equipment
3 credits, lab included
Detailed learning of electrical concepts in IONM for safe and optimal data acquisition. Students will gain optimal understanding of IONM equipment and electrical interferences with the patient, OR equipment, and data acquisition. In lab, students will participate in hands-on experiences utilizing IONM machines alongside OR equipment, developing and customizing data templates, and electrode placements in both simulated and partnered exercises.
Pathologies & Procedures
3 credits
A deep dive into common and advanced patient pathologies, diagnosis and indication for surgery, surgical procedures, and the utilization of intraoperative neuromonitoring. Students will learn about relevant pathology, how it affects anatomical systems, and its influences on neurophysiological data. Students will dive into the details of surgical procedures including critical stages, relevant instrumentation/hardware, and physiological structures at risk.
Modalities II
3 credits
A deeper dive into intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and other neurophysiological testing. Students will learn more advanced intraoperative concepts and modalities as well as less common modalities and their relation to procedures. Students will learn other neurophysiological/neurodiagnostic testing, such as polysomnography (PSG), nerve conduction studies (NCS), and clinical evoked potentials (EPs). Students will incorporate their knowledge in the operative room and shadow advances modalities when applicable. Students will continue intraoperative time with preceptors. Semester 3: 5 credits
Clinical Hours and Mentorship
3 credits
During this course, students will spend designated time in the operative room alongside certified preceptors collecting clinical hours. During this course, students are expected to be the primary personnel for case coverage, with certified preceptor supervision. In addition, students will partake in mentorship of a first semester student.
Evidence-Based Practice
1 credit
Students will be introduced to concepts surrounding evidence-based practice. They will learn how to find and review pertinent literature, the basics of statistical testing, critical assessment of scientific evidence, and how to appropriately write scientific content.
Weekly Case Presentation
1 credit
Alongside clinical hours, students will prepare one (1) case each week to present to their cohort. Case presentations will include an overview of the procedure being performed, patient diagnosis and pathologies, necessary modalities, the flow of the case, and any notable events that may have occurred.
Clinical Hours & Mentorship
3 credits
During this course, students will spend designated time in the operative room alongside certified preceptors collecting clinical hours. During this course, students are expected to be the primary personnel for case coverage, with certified preceptor supervision. In addition, students will partake in mentorship of a first semester student.
Evidence-Based Practice
1 credit
Students will be introduced to concepts surrounding evidence-based practice. They will learn how to find and review pertinent literature, the basics of statistical testing, critical assessment of scientific evidence, and how to appropriately write scientific content.
Weekly Case Presentations
1 credit
Alongside clinical hours, students will prepare one (1) case each week to present to their cohort. Case presentations will include an overview of the procedure being performed, patient diagnosis and pathologies, necessary modalities, the flow of the case, and any notable events that may have occurred.
Inquiries & Shadowing
For further questions regarding the program and shadowing opportunities on-site at our Charleston Campus, please submit inquiry below.
Faculty
Jessica Barley, PhD, CNIM – Founding Director
Dr. Jessica Lauren Barley is a distinguished academic and clinical leader in the field of clinical neurophysiology. With a solid foundation built on excellence in education and research from recognized institutions, she has honed her expertise in intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring and clinical innovation. Her dual appointments in the Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the Medical University of South Carolina, along with her role as Director of the CNPS Education and Training Program, underscore her commitment to advancing both patient care and academic rigor. Recognized with awards for innovation and active participation in professional societies, Dr. Barley consistently drives forward initiatives that integrate cutting-edge research with clinical excellence, making her a pivotal figure in her field.
Lindsey Akers, MS, CNIM-CS – IONM Education Coordinator
Over the course of her 12-year career in intraoperative and clinical neurophysiology, Lindsey has exhibited ongoing intrigue, curiosity, and passion for the field. During her time at MUSC, Lindsey has risen from a Specialist II to a Specialist IV, while also obtaining her Master of Science in Neuroscience. She has helped develop a new, stackable credential for the field of IONM – the CNIM-CS, for complex spine procedures. Now, serving as the IONM Education Coordinator, Lindsey is further pursuing her love of the field, while developing and promoting quality education and training for IONM.
Jacob Myers, BS, R. EEG. T., CLTM - EEG Education Coordinator
As a student at Iowa State majoring in biology, working in the medical field was the far from Jacob’s mind. Following graduation, Jacob found himself in phlebotomy which sparked his interest in medicine. Soon thereafter, his scientific curiosities discovered neurophysiology and EEG. With 10+ years’ experience, Jacob’s achieved both basic and advanced R. EEG T. and CLTM credentials and is proficient in epilepsy surgery, advanced EEG procedures and testing, and patient report writing. Jacob’s professionalism extends as a professional book reviewer and organizer for medical and EEG conferences. Today, Jacob plans to pass his passion for EEG and patient care onto the next generation of technologists as EEG Education Coordinator.
Lakota Stitt, MS, CNIM – IONM Clinical Coordinator
Lakota stems from a foundation in exercise science and neurophysiology, bringing a unique blend of clinical expertise and academic depth to her role. Currently, Lakota serves as the IONM Clinical Coordinator and Specialist III with a clinical background in complex cranial and spine procedures while focusing on refining monitoring techniques for higher-risk surgeries- from deep brain stimulation to speech and language mapping. Outside the OR and classroom, Lakota's co-authored peer-reviewed publications, presented original research internationally, and continues to explore how neurophysiology, data, and education intersect to elevate patient care.
Brandi DiAsio, BHA – Business Manager
Specializing in healthcare administration and Neurophysiology for over 16 years, Brandi shifted from Head Administrator of MUSC's Clinical Neurophysiology Lab to bring her expertise to the CNPS Education and Training Program. As Business Manager, Brandi remains dedicated to students, employees, patient care, and the future of Neurosciences.
Contact Us
MUSC Health Clinical Neurophysiology Education and Training Program99 Jonathan Lucas Street
Room SN512, MSC 160
Charleston, SC 29425
843-876-8870
cnpstrainingprogram@musc.edu
