The duties of a radiology technician and
radiologic technologist tend to overlap, with the technologist usually
responsible for working with more complex equipment. However, the formal
education and training involved is very similar, with most of the
available programs geared toward the aspiring technologist. These
include online programs, which tend to be hybrids, combining classes
that can be taken on a computer from home with clinical work that must
be performed on-site.
This degree program provides training in the fundamental principles
students need to assist radiologists in the examination of patients.
Students study medical terminology and the principles of x-ray
technology and examination procedures while learning how to operate an
x-ray machine,
Radiology
technicians help doctors treat patients for internal ailments, such as
tumors, broken bones and ulcers. Students are trained to evaluate x-ray
images and assist in the diagnosis process. It is helpful if students
are in good physical shape; radiology technicians often have to lift and
maneuver patients who have difficulty doing so on their own.
Online radiology technician associate degree programs offered in a
hybrid format require that students complete on-site clinical experience
at a medical facility. Some schools deliver coursework through a
platform such as Blackboard. This allows students to communicate with
teachers and other students via e-mail and message boards.
Students must have access to a computer with a high-speed Internet
connection. It is helpful if the computer has an updated Web browser and
operating system.
Typical Online Courses
Students can expect to enroll in general education courses in
addition to elective courses. Courses are often asynchronous, so that
they can be completed at the student's discretion.
Radiographic Procedures Course
This course outlines the proper use and function of x-ray equipment.
Students learn about the terminology used and how to interpret projected
images. In addition, basic anatomy and body positions are examined.
Radiation Protection Course
Students gain an understanding of how radiation exposure can affect
biological systems. This course focuses on radiation monitoring and the
practices used to measure radiation levels. In addition, students learn
the procedures used to protect patients undergoing radiation treatments.
Radiographic Imaging Equipment Course
Course topics include x-ray equipment physics, mechanics and basic
principles. Students also learn about the physical as well as digital
components in an x-ray machine.
Certification and Continuing Education
Upon completion of this program students are eligible to take the
radiography certification exam offered by the American Registry of
Radiologic Technologists. Graduates can choose to enhance their
education by pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology,
also offered online, mostly in a hybrid format. Coursework in this
program includes instruction in more complex types of radiographic
imaging, such as CT (computed tomography) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance
Imaging) scanning; other courses cover advanced radiography and the
issues affecting today's professional technologist.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (
www.bls.gov),
214,700 radiologic technologists were employed nationwide in 2008; this
number has been predicted by the BLS to increase 17% between 2008 and
2010. The annual median wage for this position was $53,240 in May 2009.
People who work in medical and diagnostic laboratories have the highest
earnings with an annual mean salary of $57,250
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