Online Radiation Technician Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

Radiation technicians may also be called radiology technicians and are responsible for taking x-rays and completing other basic radiological procedures. Normally, only hybrid degree programs are available for radiation technicians at the entry level.

How to Choose an Online School for Radiation Technicians

Degree Type, Purpose and Licensing Requirements

There are several degree types and levels offered that are effective for radiation technicians. Entry-level degrees are not normally offered in a fully online format due to licensing requirements, while upper-level degrees which are fully online are usually offered as bachelor's degree completions rather than full degree programs.
Licensing requirements for radiation technicians vary from state to state, but normally they must graduate from a state-approved education program, and because of the hands-on nature of the profession, states do not normally approve fully-online education programs for radiation technicians. Prospective students should choose a program based on their needs, whether entry-level or a degree completion program for working professionals.

Time Requirements and Schedule

Some degree programs are accelerated programs designed for those who wish to take classes full time and complete their degree program more quickly than usual. These are normally hybrid programs that require students to attend class at particular times for in-person classes in addition to online coursework.
The other general type of degree program is designed to be flexible. When online, this includes asynchronous communication via forums and flexible assignment and test due dates. For hybrid programs this usually means providing students with the opportunity to attend in-person classes on nights or weekends.

Online Program Options for Radiation Technicians

Online-Hybrid Associate of Applied Science in Radiography

Entry-level programs for radiation technicians are normally available in hybrid or traditional format, though they may have either accelerated degree options or flexible programs for working adults. Online classes are normally limited to anatomy, physiology, ethics and other general requirements like language and mathematics. In-person classes may include radiology procedures, principles of imaging and radiation biology.

Online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

A bachelor's degree in radiologic sciences is normally available online as a degree completion program for radiation technicians who have graduated and are already working full time. Similar classes are required, though more general education requirements may be included.