Prospective students who want to pursue a
certificate in radiologic technology can find fully accredited programs
by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in on-campus
formats. Online and hybrid programs are offered to post-baccalaureate
students and working dental assistants. Completion of these programs can
lead to certification by the ARRT and preparedness for the appropriate
state-administered licensing exam.
Overview of a Certificate Program in Radiologic Technology
These programs help aspiring radiologic technicians reach their
career goals in fields including diagnostic imaging, x-ray technology,
magnetic resonance imaging, mammography and radiation therapy. Programs
are primarily only available in on-campus formats; however, some
certificate programs are offered to dental assistants and
post-baccalaureate students in a hybrid (partially online) format.
Individuals must have a high-school diploma or its GED equivalent to
enroll. Many certificate programs work in conjunction with Associate of
Science or Bachelor of Science programs in radiology, and students can
often elect to continue their studies in radiology in these programs
after earning their certificate.
The average length of certificate programs in radiologic technology
is two years, including summer sessions. Students combine traditional
classroom instruction with on-site training at local clinical
facilities. Some facilities require them to undergo a background check
to be accepted into the program. After completing the program, graduates
can apply to be registered as a certified
radiologic technician by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
List of Common Radiologic Technology Courses
Fundamentals of Radiologic Technology Course
This course provides an overview of the basic concepts of radiologic
technology. Topics include safety and protection, the history of
radiography, roles of radiographers, technical factors and medical
terminology.
Patient Care and Ethics Course
Students train in the proper procedural techniques when handling
patients during radiography sessions. Concepts include the observation
of vital signs, sterilization, first-aid, operating room procedures and
tray setup.
Radiographic Positioning Course
This multi-level course provides an in-depth survey of the variety of
positioning techniques that radiologic technicians must use to create
diagnostic images. Students simulate the production of images of lower
body, abdomen, bony thorax, spinal column, alimentary canal,
reproductive systems and other bodily systems.
Individuals need to take a state-administered exam to practice as a
licensed radiologic technician in most regions of the U.S. This process
varies by state; however, 36 states factor in AART certification scores
or use ARRT-supplied exams for this purpose as of 2011. In the same
year, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the
expected employment growth for this occupation was 17% between the years
of 2008 and 2018. The BLS also cited that the mean annual wage for
radiologic technologists was $54,180 as of May 2009 (
www.bls.gov).
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