The U. S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration estimates that the demand for radiologic technologists in Oregon will increase by 28 percent from 2006 through 2016. To gain the licensing necessary to work in the field, prospective techs must complete postsecondary training. Two schools in Oregon's largest city, Portland, offer radiologic technology programs: Portland Community College and Concorde Career Colleges.
College History and Accreditation
Portland Community College opened in 1961 as an adult education program associated with Portland's public school system. The public, two-year college adopted its present name in 1971. The college has its accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Established in 1988, Concorde Career College is a for-profit vocational college with 15 campuses located across the United States. The school carries the accreditation of the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Degrees and Admissions
The radiologic technology programs at Portland Community College and Concorde Career College culminate in an Associate of Applied Science degree. The community college's program lasts two full years, while some students can complete the career college's course of study in 20 months. To enroll in the Portland Community College program, students must have a high school diploma or GED and complete prerequisite classes in mathematics, anatomy, medical terminology, computer literacy and English. Admission to the program is competitive. An in-person interview and completing an observation of a radiology tech is also required. Concorde Career College only mandates that applicants have a high school diploma or GED and pass an admission exam.
Curricula
The curriculum for the Portland Community College radiology tech program carries the accreditation of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, allowing graduates to qualify for voluntary certification through the ARRT. The school boasted a 99 percent pass rate on the ARRT's examination among recent graduates as of December 2010, according to its website. Students in the program study CPR, radiation protection and image production. Basic instruction is given in X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and radiation therapy. Eight clinical rotations are necessary for graduation. The Concorde Career College does not have ARRT accreditation. The program covers X-ray development, anatomy, CPR, medical terminology and taking patient vital signs. Students gain hands-on experience in simulated laboratories rather than completing clinical internships.
Financial Aid and Other Services
Both Portland Community College and Concorde Career College participate in federal loan and grant financial aid programs. Students at the community college may also benefit from state-based financial aid, work-study placements and institutional scholarships. Residents in the college's service area also receive tuition discounts. Both colleges offer job placement assistance for all graduates and provide tutoring and academic advising. An onsite daycare at Portland Community College offers discounted childcare for the students' children.
Tags: Portland Community, Portland Community College, Concorde Career, Career College, Concorde Career College, Community College, College Concorde
