The role of radiology assistant (R.A.) is a
relatively new one which can be the next professional step for certified
radiographers. Aspiring R.A.s complete educational and clinical
requirements beyond the radiographer level, then pass a certification
exam to become a Registered Radiologist Assistant (R.R.A.) A Bachelor of
Science or Master of Science in Radiologic Studies can be part of the
equation. The degrees cannot be earned fully online, but hybrid programs
offer some flexibility.
Bachelor's Degree Overview
An online Bachelor's of Science in Radiologic Studies prepares
students for advancement in the professional field of radiology. In this
program students discuss concepts such as medical law and research
methodology, as well as medical terminology. They develop both clinical
and textual skills related to the radiology field. The online bachelor's
degree is science intensive and deals with the application of radiology
concepts in current real life situations.
The degree program is not fully online but is offered in a hybrid
format which makes it possible for students to fulfill a certain number
of clinical hours. In the online component of the degree program,
students can access course materials and syllabi through online message
board platforms. Students must have received certification from the
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) prior to beginning
in this degree program. This degree program can be completed within a
one-year time frame.
The coursework focuses on the introductory level of radiologic
studies dealing with acclimating students to the intense medical field.
Due to the immense amount of work, students are required to order the
corresponding textbooks for even the online component.
Clinical Practice
In this course, instructors educate students on current methods of
infection control, problem management and patient education in medical
environments. Furthermore, students become educated on different
cultures in order to deal with multicultural patients.
Radiation Therapy
Discussed in this course are clinical practices associated with
radiation therapy along with different modalities. Radiobiology, disease
assessment and advanced physics are also discussed in detail.
Health Law
In this course, instructors give students an introduction into the
legal aspect of the medical field, specifically laws affecting
radiology. Legal concepts discussed in this course involve, malpractice
ethics, administrative law and more.
Online Masters of Science in Radiologic Studies Program Overview
The online Masters of Science in Radiologic Studies gives students
the necessary skills to become effective radiologist assistants. The
program teaches students medical imaging techniques and advanced
research skills. The degree program is highly science-intensive due to
the fact that the majority of the courses deal primarily with medical
terminology and practices. Students wishing to gain admission to the
degree program must have a bachelor's degree. Furthermore, there are few
Master of Science in Radiologic Studies degree programs offered online,
so admission is highly competitive.
The Master of Science in Radiologic Studies program can be completed
in two years if done full-time. Along with mandatory in-person clinical
hours, instructors leave pre-recorded video lectures on the message
board for students to access. Furthermore, students can communicate with
other students in the degree program and the professor through the
message boards, email and even phone.
Due to the advanced and time consuming nature of the coursework, most
institutions recommend students pursue this degree program full-time.
Subjects covered in this track include:
Pathophysiology Course
In this course, students learn about major body systems and
biological reactions to diseases. Students gain knowledge on the
capabilities and procedures associated with medical imaging and its
relation to diagnostic imaging. Students also learn about imaging
techniques in relation to major body systems such as the respiratory
system.
Research Methods Course
In this course, instructors help students develop essential research
skills through research projects and analysis of medical literature.
Students also learn how to adapt their methodology to the changing
technological climate.
Radiology & Pharmacology
In this course, students learn about pharmaceutical drugs from a
variety of areas including the laws, administration and research.
Instructors teach the study of pharmaceutical drugs through the
development of certain clinical skills essential to radiologist
assistants such as patient diagnosis.
Although employment information isn't available for Radiology
Assistants specifically, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
states that 214,700 professionals were employed in the radiology field
overall in 2008 (
www.bls.gov). Furthermore, the BLS predicted
that employment is expected to increase by about 17% from 2008 to 2018.
The American Society for Radiologic Technologists reported that the
workload for a radiologist increased from 11,000 procedures over the
course of a year in 1992 to 14,000 in 2002. The Radiologic Assistant
profession is a response to this growth.
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