There are educational opportunities in Illinois for prospective X-ray technicians.
X-ray technicians perform radiographic procedures to produce diagnostic images of inside the human body. These images are used to help doctors and physicians diagnose medical problems and conditions. Duties and responsibilities of an X-ray technician include explaining the procedure to a patient, positioning the patient, operating the equipment and keeping patient records. To become an X-ray technician, applicants must graduate from a radiologic or radiography-technology program from a vocational or community college. According to Indeed.com, as of 2010, the average salary for an X-ray technician in Illinois is $47,000 per year.
College of DuPage
The Joint Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology accredits the radiography program at the College of DuPage. Students use laboratory, clinical and didactic experiences to prepare students for the necessary certification and licensing requirements in this field. The program teaches students about patient positioning, radiographic physics, pathophysiology and patient techniques. Additional skills include the ability to work cooperatively, follow instructions, communicate and perform procedures accurately. Students also learn about the safety precautions involved in radiation.
College of DuPage
425 Fawell Blvd.
Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137
630-942-2800
cod.edu
Moraine Valley Community College
Moraine Valley Community College's radiologic technology program is available in an associate degree program. The curriculum in this program includes courses in anatomy and physiology, radiographic exposure, radiographic positioning, phlebotomy, pediatric radiography and radiographic processing. In addition to radiologic-technology courses, students must complete general-education courses in humanities, speech, composition, social sciences and mathematics. Students are also required to participate in a clinical experience. This two-year program teaches students adjust, control and manipulate X-ray equipment and protect patients from overexposure to radiation.
Moraine Valley Community College
9000 W. College Parkway
Palos Hills, Illinois 60465
708-974-4300
morainevalley.edu
Harper College
Harper College offers a two-year radiologic technology program that includes both classroom and clinical training. The courses cover topics in patient care, radiation protection, imaging principles, medical ethics, radiobiology and pathology. Upon graduation from the program, students are eligible for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certificate examination and become licensed with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Division of Nuclear Safety.
Harper College
1200 W. Algonquin Rd.
Palatine, Illinois 60067
847-925-6000
harpercollege.edu
Tags: College DuPage, Community College, Harper College, Moraine Valley, Moraine Valley Community