Enrolling in a Radiologic Technology Program
Date: September 28, 2022
Enrolling in a Radiologic Technology program offers many possibilities. A student graduating from a Radiologic Technology course may become an X-ray or Radiologic Technologist. In brief, these professionals perform diagnostic X-ray procedures within hospitals, physician offices, and outpatient imaging centers.
Program Length
Typically, a Radiologic Technology program takes two to four years to complete. Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts offers two associate degree radiologic programs. Our offerings include the Associate of Occupational Science (A.O.S.) in Radiologic Technology and the Associate of Science (A.S.) in Radiologic Technology. The first, the A.O.S. degree, takes 23 months* to complete. The second, the A.S. degree, takes 24 months* to finish. Both programs are accredited by The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT*).
Curriculum
Mostly, the curriculum within a radiologic program is divided into several areas. These include didactic classroom instruction, lab work, and hands-on clinical practice within healthcare settings. Attendees learn about radiographic physics, anatomy, and radiation safety. Additionally, students learn proper patient positioning and technique, quality control, and darkroom skills. At the same time, students receive instruction in infection control, sterile technique, and body mechanics. Patient privacy is also covered.
Program Completion
Upon program completion, future Radiologic Technologists (R.T.s, Rad Techs) may sit for the National Registry Examination. This is a comprehensive test outlining major content categories.1 Exam questions cover basic concepts such as definitions and procedures. Primarily the exam tests the four most heavily represented content areas. In brief, these include patient care, safety, image production, and procedures. Generally speaking, to become certified and registered, one should thoroughly understand and apply these core principles.2
Licensure
Moreover, passing the exam, certifying, and registering allows students to add the designation RT to their names. Notably, this signifies they are registered Radiologic Technologists. Many states also require state licensure and continuing education credits (CECs).
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), employment prospects for graduates completing radiologic programs remain strong due to America’s aging population and projected healthcare needs.3
Now Might Be a Good Time
Now may be a good time to enter radiologic training. According to the BLS, job openings for qualified Radiologic Technologists will continue to grow as technology expands.3 Further, overall employment for Radiologic Technologists is projected to expand by nine percent between 2020–2030. This is about as fast as the average for all occupations.3 Overall, there are more than 20,800 openings for Radiologic and MRI Technologists projected yearly over the next decade.3
Employment Places
While hospitals employ most X-ray Technologists, many also work for freestanding imaging centers or outpatient clinics. Still, others find employment in private physician offices. These may be orthopedic or urologic practices and portable X-ray services. Creatively, some find work as sales support individuals within the field.
Our Programs
Foremost, Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts’ two programs aims to prepare students for employment as certified Radiologic Technologists. In brief, these programs emphasize the knowledge, skills, and entry-level competencies appropriate for examinations required by the California Department of Public Health, Radiologic Health Branch.~
* Indicates 94 Approved Instructional Weeks
Citations:
1 “State Licensing Exam FAQ Section.” ARRT,Ⓡ American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.Ⓡ (Accessed Feb. 11, 2022.)
2 BoardVitals. “FAQs About the Radiography Exam.” Board Vitals Blog. Jan. 6, 2021. (Accessed Feb. 11, 2022.)
3^a, b, c, d Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Radiologic and MRI Technologists. (Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.)
ARRT®, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists,® and R.T. (MR) (ARRT)® are registered trademarks owned by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.Ⓡ Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts is not licensed by, endorsed by, or affiliated with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.®
