Communications Staff
There’s a saying that refers to people who “couldn’t see the trees because of the forest,” meaning the obvious answer sometimes gets overlooked because of dense surroundings. In the same way, many college students fail to see a “great fit” career that’s possible with a two-year healthcare degree, but they may be missing out on some terrific opportunities. Become a radiologic technologist, and you’ll be in one of the hottest careers around.
Did you even know about radiologic technology? Most people don’t…they only know about doctors, physician assistants, nurses…careers that require four or more years in college.
So, if you’re doing research on career options, and you like the idea of working in healthcare or a health science field, it’s time to focus on why people become radiologic technologists – often referred to as a rad tech.
The idea of being fully prepared to enter a healthcare profession in two years is impressive. More impressive is the significance of the work rad techs do and their responsibilities. Radiologic technologists are often one of the first healthcare members a patient might encounter. In an emergency room situation, the ER physician may decide that the patient will go directly to the imaging department even before the ambulance has arrived.
The diagnostic images taken by a radiologic technologist can unlock the mystery of a patient’s internal condition and provide life-saving information. Not only does medical imaging detect broken bones, strains, and sprains, but also arthritis, tumors, cancer, cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease, fluid buildup, collapsed lungs, pneumonia, and many more conditions.
The results of a rad tech’s expertise allow doctors to know what treatments are necessary. If there are multiple injuries, imaging tells what the priority of care should be.
#1. According to O*Net, an online database of workers’ information, nearly 64% of rad techs enter the career field by earning a two-year Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S. degree) in radiologic technology.
#2. After mastering the art and science of X-rays as a radiographer, graduates may wish to expand their skill set with additional certifications. See other designations here.
#3. Research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics says the number of rad techs needed between now and 2030 will increase by 9%.
#4. Become a radiologic technologist by succeeding on the national competency exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
#5. Those who become radiologic technologists are in a top-25 health care support job, according to annual rankings by U.S. News and World Report.
After earning a rad tech degree, there is a variety of worksite possibilities:
The job responsibilities are many and will likely vary according to the day:
According to Salary.com, the average salary range for a new rad tech in 2022 is $45,714 to $54.837.
Want a recap of why students become radiologic technologists? Go to this “9 Reasons” blog.
Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) is a nonprofit, private, chiropractic and health sciences university in Overland Park, Kansas, a large, vibrant suburb of the Kansas City metro.
Our A.A.S. degree in Radiologic Technology program was designed with guidance from imaging center professionals. As a result, the program provides an education that meets ARRT exam expectations. Instructors have real-life experience doing the imaging work they are teaching, and you’re involved in patient care as early as the third semester.
The CUKC program is very much hands-on and emphasizes patient interaction skills and technical competency. Our radiologic technology degree program also features:
Request information today and discover more about the profession by getting this free eBook: Your Complete Guide to a Career as a Radiologic Technologist.
