Online Schools with Degrees for Radiologists: How to Find and Choose

Fully-online and even hybrid radiology programs are not available for medical doctors, but radiologic technicians and radiologist assistants may be able to find appropriate online education programs. Associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees are all available in either hybrid or online forms.

How to Find an Online Radiology Program

Online Program Availability

Normally, entry-level programs for radiology professionals are not available in a fully-online format. Some hybrid programs, which allow radiology students to take courses online, may be available from some institutions and at some degree levels. Radiology degrees that are available fully online are usually offered only to students who already have hands-on radiology experience from lower degree levels or previous careers.
Many fully-online degrees are available for those who have prior radiology training through avenues such as the military or a foreign country. The other type of fully-online degree option for radiology students is normally a bachelor's or master's degree program designed for students who are already practicing radiologists but wish to obtain a higher degree.
Most of the degrees that are available online are for radiologic technicians and radiologist assistants, and not for medical doctors who specialize in radiology. Normally, medical doctors must attend a traditional program for radiology in order to practice, because neither online nor hybrid courses are usually available.

Time Requirements and Format

Most fully-online radiology programs are designed as further education options for radiologic technicians and normally have a flexible schedule to allow students to continue to work full time while still attending class. Most hybrid programs are more appropriate for full-time students who wish to begin a career in radiology. Time requirements for hybrid programs are usually more demanding and have set due dates for assignments and tests rather than the single class end date that is normal for fully-online programs.

Online Degree Options for Radiologists

Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology

An associate's degree in radiologic technology is normally a hybrid degree rather than a fully-online degree. This type of degree usually focuses on entry-level subjects, with online teaching for theory and clinical laboratory requirements. Course subjects usually include anatomy, physiology, radiographic procedures, college math, English and reading.

Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science

Normally, bachelor's degrees in radiology are designed for students who wish to advance their careers through education but are unable to attend class full-time at a college campus. These degrees are often fully-online but admission requirements may include a certain number of hours of experience in radiology or a lower level radiology degree. Advanced medical imaging, radiation therapy, intravenous therapy and research seminars are all common classes for this degree program.

Master of Science in Radiologic Science

A master's degree program in radiology is usually designed either to give students the particular skills necessary to be a radiologist assistant or to continue their radiology education and provide further avenues of career advancement. Master's degrees are often offered online, though requirements for admission usually include practical experience, certification or a lower degree. Common courses include medical law, leadership in medicine, financial management and radiology education.