Radiology Technician Schools in California
Radiology technicians have an important role in the medical field. They control the technologically advanced equipment that will help point to a patient's diagnosis. This is a lot of responsibility, and as such, requires specialized training to ensure that patients are handled with respect and the equipment is handled properly. Fortunately, California's large population ensures that the medical field will need support for years to come.
Function
Radiology technician schools teach students use radiation and imaging equipment to create pictures of parts of the body. These images can be used to identify a foreign substance, a bone injury, cancer and any masses that may be of concern. These schools also teach students about proper bedside manner, which is crucial in the medical field, given that radiology technicians must be impeccable at following a doctor's orders and at explaining and preparing patients for imaging procedures.
Geography
There are many colleges throughout California that offer radiology technician programs. Western Career College has programs in cities like San Jose, Pleasant Hill, Citrus Heights, Antioch and Sacramento. Newbridge College has programs in Santa Ana and Long Beach. Concorde Career College has programs in San Bernardino, North Hollywood, San Diego and Garden Grove. Kaplan College has programs in cities such as Palm Springs, Modesto, Riverside, Bakersfield and San Diego.
Time Frame
Most of California's radiology technician programs are a year long if you're hoping to obtain your certificate in radiology. This can be achieved by attending one of the numerous programs offered at the trade or community colleges within the state. You can also obtain a two-year associate's degree or a four-year bachelor's degree that some technicians who choose to specialize in a particular field of radiology often pursue. Some technicians also become certified through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Considerations
There are numerous universities within the University of California system that offer advanced degrees in radiology. UC Davis, San Francisco and San Diego all offer radiology technician programs, along with programs in diagnostic radiology, neuroradiology, abdominal imaging and nuclear medicine, to name a few.
Size
California's large population means that radiology technicians are in demand. Most who graduate from a local college or trade school choose to intern at a neighboring facility, such as a doctor's office, urgent care or trauma center.
Tags: College programs, medical field, radiology technician programs, technician programs, California large, California large population
