X-ray technicians, also known as
radiographers, work in the field of diagnostic imaging. They prepare the
patient and then perform the actual imaging process through the use of
radiographic equipment. The resulting radiographs, or X-rays, are then
given to doctors for examination and diagnosis. There are several hybrid
programs that provide some online training in conjunction with clinical
work that can prepare individuals for certification and licensing.
Associate's Degree in Radiography Overview
In many cases, this program is designed for individuals who have some prior radiography education. Depending on the school, it may be necessary for applicants to have graduated from a program that has been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Applicants may be required to have a certain amount of verified work experience in the field. Generally, individuals must have completed prerequisite courses in college mathematics and computer literacy.Graduates are eligible to sit for state licensing exams as well as the certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Successful test-takers are qualified for entry-level positions as radiographic technologists.
Program Information and Requirements
The program can take up to two years to complete. Part of the program is presented online by way of an Internet-based learning system, such as Blackboard. Hands-on, practical course requirements are generally satisfied by participation in externships at an approved clinical site near the student or where the student works.Technical requirements include a computer with Internet access and an up-to-date browser and operating system. Most schools will post a list of the minimum specifications necessary to take their online courses.
List of Common Radiography Courses
Since this is a degree-granting program, a certain number of general education courses are required, including communications, mathematics and computer literacy. While the remainder of program requirements consists of a varied number of theory courses, the majority of radiology-related courses are taken up by clinical externships.Fundamentals of Radiography Course
Ethics, nursing procedures and radiation safety factors are stressed in this orientation course. The theory and principles of X-ray methods and techniques are emphasized as well.Positioning Courses
Generally, patient positioning is covered in a series of courses. Beginning with the upper extremities, chest, shoulders and lower extremities, students progress through the correct positioning procedures when dealing with the pelvis, spinal column, thorax and the gastrointestinal and urinary systems. This type of course usually involves on-campus lab sessions.Imaging Course
This is a broad course that introduces the student to different modalities in imaging, such as fluoroscopy, computed tomography, thermography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Nuclear medicine and radiation therapy may also be explored.Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Imaging Overview
Graduates of this program are prepared to become registered x-ray technologists and qualify for entry-level positions as diagnostic radiography practitioners. Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Although no prior radiology education experience is necessary, students typically must have completed courses in human anatomy and physiology, algebra or calculus, physics or chemistry, medical terminology and computer literacy.Program Requirements and Information
In general, this is a full-time, 18-month program. The academic portion of the curriculum is delivered online, while labs and clinical rotations must be completed onsite at an approved location.Technical requirements include a computer with Internet access, a sufficient operating system and browser and a CD-ROM drive. Communication is handled by e-mail and an Internet learning system such as Blackboard, which has features like message boards and chat systems.
List of Common Medical Imaging Courses
Onsite laboratories and rotations are interspersed with online didactic courses. Typically, the appropriate clinical practicum is timed to coincide with its related academic component.Fundamentals of Radiologic Science Course
This introductory course in radiography illustrates the interdependence of the responsibilities of the radiographer with the policies and principles of the healthcare organization. Professional ethics as well as the relationships between patients, families and caregivers are examined.Patient Care Course
Focusing on the emotional and physical needs and conditions of patients and families, students study the differences between routine and emergency procedures, as well as their applications. Infection control is also examined.Equipment Course
In this course, students examine standard equipment used in medical imaging. In addition to an exploration of radiographic, tomographic and fluoroscopic devices, the construction, circuitry and electronic components of the machines are emphasized.Radiation Biology Course
Students learn about the interaction between and the effect of radiation on living systems. Acute and chronic effects of radiation on molecules, cells, tissues and the entire body are studied.Certificate in Applied Science in Mammography Overview
Mammography is a specialization in the field of radiography. The program is intended to train and qualify individuals to become competent in the operation of customized X-ray equipment that produces low-dose, high-resolution images used primarily for the early detection of breast cancer.In order to qualify for the program, applicants must be registered as radiographers with the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians. In some cases, applicants may be required to provide proof of employment in radiography. Graduates are prepared to sit for the ARRT national certification examination in mammography.
Program Information and Requirements
The program generally lasts one semester. Lectures and lessons are delivered online, while competency-based clinical components, which coincide with the lectures, are conducted at approved clinical sites near the student's home.List of Common Mammography Courses
Breast Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology Course
Students learn the structure and parts of the human breast along with how they function. The causes, processes, development and consequences of diseases of the breast are explored.Positioning Course
Students learn different methods and techniques of positioning the breast on a film plate in order to produce a specific image. Labs and clinical practice are typically an essential part of this mammography course.Instrumentation Course
Students are instructed on recent developments in the use of different instruments, such as X-ray tubes and generators, that can be applied differently according to the breast's composition and thickness. Digital image receptors, stereotactic needle positioning systems and computer-aided diagnostic applications are among the areas studied.Continuing Education Information
In many cases, X-ray technicians decide to become technologists; from that point, they may specialize in one type of imaging, such as computed tomography, MRI or mammography. Further academic training and additional experience can result in advancement to a supervisory or administrative position.Career Information for Graduates
Although not legally required, voluntary certification is advised. Certification exams are administered by the ARRT. In addition, most states require licensure in order to practice as a radiologic technician or technologist. Although requirements can vary by state, many use ARRT exams for licensing purposes.Career opportunities for radiologic technicians and technologists were expected to increase by 17% from 2008-2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). In June 2010, PayScale.com reported the average annual salary for radiologic technicians to be $41,961. Mammographers earned an average of $55,897, while medical imaging technologists averaged $54,594.
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