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What is a Radiology Technician?

A radiology technician or RT is the medical expert used to help produce quality x-ray images.  RT’s will be responsible for preparing the patient and maintaining x-ray equipment.  Preparing patients for a procedure may include providing emotional comfort, education, and/or physical accommodations in the room.  Properly maintaining the x-ray equipment includes regular maintenance and diagnostic work to ensure it is properly calibrated and functioning properly in all conditions.

Are Radiology Techs Required to Earn a Degree?

It is required a radiology technician earn an associate degree or bachelor degree.  The type of degree requisite to work in a hospital or medical setting is established by your state and employer.  Make sure to understand the necessary qualifications and requirements in your state to become a radiology technician prior to matriculation.  While a bachelor’s degree may not be required by all employers, it can lead to advanced career opportunities and additional job responsibilities.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$59,260

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

37.45%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

200,650

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Radiology Technician Schools

Since its establishment in 1890, the University of Chicago has been known for its novel way of thinking, which empowers individuals to pursue new ideas. It commits to teaching critical, writing, and analytical skills to individuals through its curriculum. 

The radiology department of the university offers a variety of radiology-focused courses, such as residency, fellowship, postgraduate courses, and continuing education. It has incredibly experienced and passionate faculty members that teach students acquisition methods of MRI or MRIS, imaging approaches and advanced CT systems, novel tomographic methods, and lessons related to radiology. Students will also improve and prepare to provide high-quality care for future patients. 

Acceptance Rate

6.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Georgetown University is a leading university with a heart that accommodates a diverse community and respects the individual needs and talents of its students, faculty, and staff. It has 17,000 students from 135 and a total of 190,000 alumni.

The university has radiology programs under its department of radiology. One of its various programs is General Radiology that lasts for 2 weeks with a maximum of 4 students per block. Participants will spend one day observing the 10 sections of the department as well as spend the mornings observing the assigned section and will take lessons during the afternoon. Its other programs are Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Vascular Radiology, Body Imaging Project, and Neuroradiology. 

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The mission of St. Luke’s College is to provide high quality, health education to individuals who wish to become compassionate and competent health care providers. It is located in Sioux City of Iowa and accommodates thousands of students in their dynamic campus houses, classrooms, laboratories, and library.

It provides a nationally recognized radiology technology degree program and prepares students for an encouraging career in the field of radiography. The program can last up to two years that will teach students extensive clinical instructions under the guidance of experienced instructors who are expert in the field. Graduates of this program can work in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, informatics and mobile departments. 

Acceptance Rate

29.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Emory University aims to create student success through amazing research in medicine and humanities. It is one of the top innovation centers and most well-funded research institutions in the United States.

Its Department of Radiology outlines radiology residency, fellowship and interventional residency programs. These courses provide students with excellent opportunities to experience different patient populations and healthcare environments. Aspiring radiologists can apply for the program by providing documents required by the university (such as personal statement, letter of recommendation, medical school transcript, etc.). 

Acceptance Rate

15.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The campus of Carolinas College of Health Sciences is located in North Carolina and has a ratio of 6 students per faculty. It has a supportive environment and provides hands-on learning to prepare students for potential employment.

The university provides radiology students with the most advanced equipment to help them perform diagnostic procedures safely. The radiology degree program is focused on teaching students to become caring, proficient, and competent radiographers. The course will last for five semesters with a total of 72 credits. Upon completion, graduates will be ready to pass the national certification exam. 

Acceptance Rate

35.29

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill infuses a global mindset in their academic and research services that fuels that opportunities for its students and faculty. Amongst the 1,500 research universities in the world, the University of North Carolina ranked 36th.

Its department of radiology develops a wide variety of programs, examinations, and producers using state-of-the-art technology. Its mission is to provide excellent care to the patients, equip students with imaging knowledge, train radiologists, and engage in clinical research. It is equipped with dedicated and energetic teaching staff to teach students the correct and safe use of radiology techniques

Acceptance Rate

22.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Ohio State University has been building beneficial relationships that have a positive impact on social and economic success. The university values the diversity of ideas that can help individuals confidently stand out and belong in their student-centered environment.

It offers an undergraduate program in Radiologic Sciences and Therapy with the aim to prepare students to care for patients. There are different programs to choose from under this department, including radiography, sonography, and radiotherapy. 10-20 students per class will receive 1,600 hours of courses and clinical experience. 

Acceptance Rate

53.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

University of Washington has been giving profound impacts on individuals, community, and the world. The mission of the university is to preserve, disseminate and improve knowledge in order to educate diverse students to be responsible leaders and citizens.

Medical radiology at the University of Washington is one of the best and most advanced imaging equipment in the United States. Its department has developed programs that will make significant improvements in the present and future of the radiology industry. It offers diagnostic radiology residency, nuclear medicine residency, interventional radiology, fellowships, and observations. 

Acceptance Rate

51.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Established in 1897, San Diego State University is the oldest university in San Diego and accommodates 36,000 students each year. It provides students with the opportunity to participate in its outstanding academic training and courses to prepare them for a rewarding career.

It has developed an advanced certificate program for students who are training for residency in radiation therapy physics. This course will provide students with excellent training in clinical radiation oncology physics to help them gain competence and responsibility in their future careers. Applicants must have 3.5 GPA or higher from their master’s degree in Medical Physics before they can apply for the program. 

Acceptance Rate

34.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

27:1

The Rolla Technical Institute/Center is focused on college and career preparation and offers various opportunities for students who want to develop their skills for immediate employment. It also emphasizes the need to provide its students with hands-on training, knowledge and experience.

The institute offers a two-year Radiologic Technology course that is accredited by the Joint Review Committee in Radiologic Technology. Students will focus on the radiology practice of chest, spine, abdomen, skull, etc. After graduation, students will prepare to take the national certification exam, which will enable them to become officially registered technical experts in radiology. 

Acceptance Rate

64

Tuition

$10,800 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Hillyard Technology Center is located in Missouri and places great emphasis on integrity, responsibility, cooperation, progress, and respect. Its mission is to prepare students for continuous learning and success.

The Hillyard Technical Center offers a radiology technology program that develops the student’s skills to become radiologists. Students enrolled in the program are required to take general education courses in NCMC before applying to Hillyard’s radio technology. The program will last up to 23 months and students will learn about the instructions, training, and lessons that are significant to the radiology industry.

Acceptance Rate

53.85

Tuition

$12,630 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

4:1

Since 1818, St. Louis University has been one of the most prestigious Catholic universities in the United States. It aims to educate individuals by improving their mind, body, heart, and spirit.

This university provides students with the opportunity to participate in its radiology course, which offers excellent clinical care, medical imaging, world-class services, and residency courses. Its goal is to provide engaging opportunities that develop the knowledge of the individuals in the radiologic field. The residency course lasts for four years and focuses on diagnostic radiology, patient safety, and clinical excellence. 

Acceptance Rate

58.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Rutgers University in New Jersey was founded during the American Revolution and has been giving excellent education and training for over 250 years. It is a proud member of the Big Ten universities in the United States and includes in the NCAA Division I.

It offers an online and flexible Radiologic Technologist degree that specializes in increasing the individual’s knowledge in radiology, health care, and marketability. The program has a strong curriculum and intensive clinical training that delivers a comprehensive program. Students have two options to choose from, first is the certificate in Radiologic Imaging Modalities, and second is the BS Imaging Science in Radiologic Imaging Modalities. Both courses will be guided by experienced and passionate instructors.

Acceptance Rate

61.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

North Central College teaches students to build leadership skills as they study a diverse academic program. It also develops the writing, speaking, and problem-solving skills of an individual to help them have an effective communication and competence in their careers.

Its college of arts and sciences offers a radiation therapy program that gives a solid foundation in understanding the specialized methods of radiology. The course will last up to four years and will focus on chemistry, biology, math, and physics. Students are also required to take courses at Northwestern Memorial Hospital during their fourth-year to earn a degree in radiation therapy. Graduates of the program will be educated in basic patient care skills, utilizing radiologic technology and procedures. 

Acceptance Rate

53.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Howard University in Washington was founded in 1867 and offers more than 120 graduate, undergraduate, and professional degree programs. The university is also a leader in the STEM field and serves as an advocate for social change and justice. It provides excellent radiology programs in imaging services, clinical care, education, and research.

The program practices students to have early medical care for four years, as well as teaching imaging interpretation, criteria for imaging, and improvement and safety of radiology. Students will spend at least 4 hours a day with classroom lessons and will study course materials as a group. The university also provides conferences and dedicated professionals who will guide the students enrolled in the program. 

Acceptance Rate

36.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

The University of Vermont has been working to move mankind forward since 1791. It is a public Ivy League and provides students with endless ways and ideas to explore the interests, community, and the world.

Its Department of Radiology offers Residency and Fellowship programs that can be completed in four-years. Each year, six students train together into highly competitive education lessons and training. Students can also choose from the two fellowships such as the Neuroradiology that focuses on CT and MR while Vascular/Interventional Radiology provides specialized training in angiography and intervention.

Acceptance Rate

67.3

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

St. Francis University is a Catholic university that focuses on liberal arts and welcomes students to join the community. It aims to prepare students and contribute to the world by providing high-quality service training and excellent academic courses.

It has a bachelor's degree in radiology, which can be completed in two years, and offers intimate courses so that students can study closely with passionate and professional professors. The program will be composed of 21-24 months to prepare students with real-world experiences. Graduates of this degree can obtain successful careers in the field of radiology and can find jobs in hospitals, clinics and testing centers. 

Acceptance Rate

45.62

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Offering 150 programs to its 10,000 students, Quinnipiac University aims to engage students in giving outstanding educational experience. It has a team of professional teachers who care deeply about the well-being of students and the university.

One of the courses they offer is a Bachelor of Science in Radiology, which enables students to engage in the industry with relevant knowledge and experience. It focuses on providing healthcare knowledge and developing student skills through blended learning. Upon completion of the 3-year program, graduates will be eligible to take the Radiologic Technologists exam and obtain a license. 

Acceptance Rate

70.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Concordia University cultivates opportunities, experiences, and discussions to help the students grow into professionals and help them become engaged in the communities and the world. Its mission is to develop the mind, body, and spirit of the students to serve Christ and the world.

It offers a BS degree in Radiologic Technology that proves knowledge in diagnosing the inside of the human body by imaging technology. The program will let students study patient positioning, examination techniques, patient positioning, radiation safety and protection, and basic care for patients.  Students will first focus on classroom and laboratory learning to become experts in research and theory assessments. 

Acceptance Rate

64.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The mission of Notre Dame of Maryland University is to transform men and women into leaders and help them change the world. It has been in operation for 125 years and since then, the university has been providing innovative education and promoting professional and intellectual excellence.

Its bachelor's degree in radiology prepares students to become effective and dedicated to providing the best medical care. The program can be accessed full-time or part-time, giving flexibility to professional and working students. The program also focuses on radiology, nuclear medicine technology and diagnostic medical ultrasound

Acceptance Rate

61.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Bellarmine University has a 175-acre campus with a vibrant and diverse student, faculty, and staff community. The university aims to provide ethical awareness and excellence in education, while pursuing liberal arts education.

It can help students earn a degree in the highly demanding field of radiotherapy. The program trains students with the help of medical professionals and radiation oncologists to give outstanding lessons using the latest equipment and technology. With the student-faculty ratio of 4:1, the course will focus on medical dosimetry, radiation biology and physics, oncology pathology, and patient care. 

Acceptance Rate

66.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Avila University allows students to voluntarily carry out activities on a national and global scale to ensure that its students are passionate, creative, and committed to changing the world. Its mission is to provide an excellent education for graduate and undergraduate students and prepare them for long-term professional development.

The university outlines a highly competitive radiologic science degree that will develop the students’ skills in their technical, clinical, and professional areas. It has a small class system and highly dedicated teachers who provide personalized guidance and courses that will help students solve problems and discover clinical opportunities. 90% of the graduates of the program passed the national examination on their first attempt.

Acceptance Rate

41.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The University of Wisconsin provides a diverse and dynamic learning as well as respecting and acknowledging the contributions of all individuals. Its students are conducting research along with the faculty to provide satisfaction to their intellectual curiosity.

Its Department of Health Professions develops a Radiologic Science Program to educate and train individuals who are technically competent, knowledgeable, and dedicated to their patients and professions. The course provides students with a foundation in clinical aspects and radiation therapy. As part of the internship, students will receive direct patient care in the radiation oncology department.

Acceptance Rate

73

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Since 1853, the mission of Manhattan College has been to focus on providing quality education for itself and all individuals in the surrounding community. It can accommodate up to 4,000 students and is the most transformative university in the United States.

It provides professional preparation for students who wish to become radiologists and health professionals. With the help and guidance of Manhattan College’s dedicated faculty, it enables students to practice and be educated in the radiology field. Its programs consist of Nuclear Medicine Technology and Radiation Therapy degree programs.

Acceptance Rate

73.62

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Laboure College was established in 1892 with a mission to provide high-quality health care education to its diverse students. The majority of the students enrolled in its programs are adults who wish to learn about the careers they are passionate about.

The Radiation Therapy of Laboure College received an 8-year accreditation. It designed the course to be challenging and helpful to give students a rewarding career in the industry. The program is handled by faculty who are experts in the field and are dedicated to giving skillful lessons and instructions about radiology. Graduates of the program will be eligible to take the national certification exam and have an opportunity to work in health-related companies. 

Acceptance Rate

20.83

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

What is Medical Radiological Technology?

Medical Radiological Technology an area of study and employment track that deals with the imaging of the human body for the purposes of medical treatment. Individuals in this field may use a variety of methods and techniques to obtain the optimal imaging of a patient.

Techs will often vary the methodology used based on a patient's suspected condition and the quality of their health. Due to the radiation a produced by the machines and substances used in this profession, it is important to note that individuals are tasked with increased safety precautions for both themselves and the patient.

What is the Difference Between a Radiology Technician and Radiological Technologist?

Although the job titles are similar, a radiology tech is not the same position as a radiologic technologist.  Both jobs require professionals to accurately record patient information, schedule work for their department, and manage equipment in their department.

In addition to the job responsibilities of a radiology tech, a radiologic technologist, will specialize is one or more areas in the medical field.  Options may include one or more of the following areas of specialty: MRI scans, CT scans, bone density scans, fluoroscopes, and mammography.

Radiology Technician Requirements

Individuals seeking a career in medical radiologic technology may pursue studies at the associate or bachelor degree level, or through a certificate program. Most individuals seek education at the associate level, which takes approximately two years to complete.

A bachelor's degree program will cover a wider range of methods and techniques, allowing for greater flexibility in duties, functions, tasks and employment options. Courses may include:

  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Pathology
  • Biology
  • Radiation Physics
  • Patient Care
  • Chemistry
  • Imaging and Diagnosis

Top Radiology Degrees

The types of degrees in radiology encompass all types of degrees and certificates from associate degrees through doctorate degrees.  Depending on your state of residence and their requirements, earning a degree may be followed by a licensure examination from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

A summary of each type of degree program is listed below to further your research in the field of radiology and degree options to help you navigate vocational options ahead.

Radiology Professional Certificates

A certificate in radiology is crafted to help students and working professional gain additional knowledge in particular areas of radiology.  Certificates may include specialty programs in Ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans.

A certificate in radiology can be viewed by practitioners and employers as a viable alternative to earning an additional degree in radiology.  By providing specific training in a concentrated area, radiology professional can upskill quickly with less cost than a full-fledged degree program.  Certificate programs will often last 6 months to 12 months depending on the program and courses taken at a given time.

 Radiology Associate's Degree

The associate degree in radiologic technology is the requisite degree to work in most hospitals or healthcare organizations.  The associate degree programs in radiology technology are typically two-year programs albeit online or in class.

The 3 primary types of associate degree programs in radiology include the Radiology Tech Associate degree, Online Associate Degree, and Associate degree in Radiography.  You may find slight variations in program names or nomenclature of the associate degree programs in radiology yet all lead to similar entry-level positions in radiology technology.  M

ake sure the college degree program you select is an accredited, state-approved college or university.  Accredited radiology tech programs are required to become eligible for state certification and/or state licensure.

Radiology Bachelor's Degrees

A bachelor degree in radiology may not be required by employers in your area to qualify for entry-level positions but is a viable degree providing ample career opportunities in the field.

The three most popular bachelor degree programs in radiology include the Bachelor of Science in Radiology, Bachelor of Radiologic Technology, and Bachelor of Applied Science in Radiology.  In either case, accredited colleges and universities will offer an array of science-rich courses such as radiation, patient care, anatomy, healthcare ethics, pathology, and biology.

Bachelor of Science (BS) degree programs in radiology will take 4-years of full-time work to complete for direct entry programs and around two-years for students who have already earned an associate’s degree in radiology.

Radiology Master's Degrees

If you are seeking an advanced degree in radiologic science, a master’s degree may be a viable option to help advance your career.  Master’s degree programs in radiology was created for radiology professionals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree with a desire to advance learning in research and biomedical imaging.

The master’s program in radiology is a 1-2 year program of full time matriculation and can overlap with programs in forensic science, environmental biology, public health, healthcare informatics, and healthcare administration.

PhD in Radiology

Students earning a doctorate degree in radiology earn a PhD that typically focus on research and academics to advance radiological sciences.  Areas of specialty include radiological physics, neural imaging, radiation therapy, veterinary medicine, diagnostic radiology, radiation biology, interventional radiology, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine.

Most Popular Radiology Careers

Much like other medical jobs, you can specialize in radiology in a number of different arenas.  The most common areas of specialization include radiology technology, diagnostic radiology, nuclear medicine, interventional radiology, and radiation therapy.  A brief description of each is listed below to help you better understand the areas of concentration within  radiology.

Radiology Technology & LMR

Radiology techs earning an associate degree or bachelor degree will most often find themselves working in a hospital, urgent care center, clinics, medical institutions, or physicians’ offices performing a range of tasks that include radiographic specialties like: trauma, surgical, mobile services, pediatric, nuclear medicine, computed tomography, sonography, radiation therapy, ultrasound, MRI and fluoroscopy.

A LMR or Limited Medical Radiography certificate or degree are students prepared to conduct x-rays, maintain equipment, and educate patients on medical procedures.

Diagnostic Radiologist

A diagnostic radiologist is a medical professional will spend time examining patients, understanding medical history, diagnosing an illness, and providing treatments.  There is an array of subspecialties within the broad-based category of diagnostic radiology which include:  nuclear radiology, chest radiology, emergency radiology, MRI technician, radiation oncology, interventional radiology, pediatric radiology, neuroradiology, head and neck radiology, musculoskeletal radiology, genitourinary radiology, x-ray technician, breast imaging, and cardiovascular radiology.

Nuclear Medicine

A nuclear medicine specialist will utilize radiopharmaceuticals to both treat and diagnose a disease.   This specialty of radiology uses a variety of techniques such as scintigraphy to produce images of a patient’s organs or to help understand a variety of diseases in the body.  The radiopharmaceuticals are either ingested by the patient or injected into a vein to allow the radiologist a view into the human body.

Interventional Radiology

Interventional Radiology or IR is a radiology specialty focused on minimally invasive treatments leveraging radiological images.  IR approach has grown significantly in recent years as there are fewer risks involved for the patient, quicker recovery periods, and are far less invasive than treatments that require surgery.

Interventional Radiologists are board certified and fellowship trained physicians with extensive training charged with applying minimally invasive radiological solutions for patients.

Radiation Therapy

A Radiation Therapy includes a variety of specialists that work with a patient to administer radiation treatment(s) under the physician’s purview.   These specialists include dosimetrist, radiation therapist, radiation oncologist, therapeutic medical physicist, and radiation oncologist nurse.

Employment in Radiology Technology

Employment is typically pursued available through hospitals, clinics, laboratories, care centers, and private offices. Due to the necessity of imaging in its variety of forms, employment is generally available and can be sought at multiple locations.

Individuals may work extensive hours on their feet and may have a large number of tests and patients to deal with in a given day. As a result individuals that can demonstrate stamina and excellent patient communication are favored for employment.

As noted above, individuals in this field should be prepared to take precautions in order to ensure their safety when while working, including the use of badges that gauge radiation levels.

Radiology Jobs & Career Growth

Job growth is expected to increase over the next decade as the need for more professionals to perform imaging and testing due to the aging population. In fact, the BLS estimates some 20,700 radiology tech jobs will be created in the coming decade.

Newer and cheaper technologies will also allow for more individuals in offices and outpatient centers, creating more employment opportunities. The average salary is $58,960 per year for a medical radiologic technologist, varying based on location, experience and education.

Individuals interested in medical radiologic technology may also be interested in cardiovascular technology, ultrasound technician or magnetic resonance imaging.

Additional Resources in Radiology

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) provides individuals with resources for the advancement of the radiologic technology field, including publications and information regarding advancements in technologies and techniques to improve treatment and imaging procedures and provide career and continuing education assistance.

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) provides certification examinations that allows individuals to demonstrate the extent of their skills in a professional setting. The organization was founded in 1922 and has worked to advance the field through recognition of ability since its establishment.

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