Diagnostic imaging is a growing field.
Radiology technicians work in clinics and hospitals taking x-rays and administering nonradioactive testing materials into patients' bloodstreams to diagnose diseases. They may work with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology or computerized tomography (CT). This growing field can be accessed by acquiring a certificate and an associate's or bachelor's degree.
Student Requirements
Students wishing to enter radiology schooling programs should have a high school diploma or GED. It is especially helpful if you are familiar with biology, chemistry, physics and math. If you aren't, you'll need to take some extra classes in those areas so you attain the basics you'll need to succeed in this training program. If you are aiming for more than a certificate, you may need to get a healthcare prerequisite associate's or bachelor's degree before you begin the radiology training.
Training
Radiology programs range from 1 to 4 years in length. Experienced radiologists can also go back to school for certificate programs to learn new skills or if they wish to specialize or change fields. Students are required to study medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, patient care, radiation physics and protection, imaging principles, patient positioning, ethics, pathology and radiobiology.
Licensure and Certification
Each state has its own licensing requirements for radiology technicians. Contact your State Health Board for the most recent requirements in your state. Certification is available through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). This is a voluntary certification, but many employers insist upon it. Technicians must have graduated from an ARRT-approved program to take the exam. Continuing education is required to maintain ARRT certification.
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiology technicians are in high demand. Employment in this field is expected to grow 17 percent between 2008 and 2018. Hospitals remain the primary employers in this field, but more job opportunities are opening up in diagnostic imaging centers and physicians' offices. For technicians with experience in more than one type of procedure, the employment outlook is even better. According to the Occupational Employment Statistics Survey Program, radiologic technicians earned between $42,710 and $63,010 in 2008.
Schools and Information
For more information about careers in radiologic technology, visit the American Society of Radiologic Technologists's website (see Resources). Lists of accredited radiography programs can be found at the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology's website (see Resources). Some of the schools you may want to look into include ECPI Technical College in Virginia, Apollo College in Arizona and Stevens-Henager College in Idaho.
Tags: associate bachelor, associate bachelor degree, bachelor degree, between 2008, growing field
