Become a Radiologic Technologist, Do Diagnostic Imaging

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 amazing opportunities. Become a radiologic technologist, and you’ll be in one of the hottest careers around.

Radiologic Technologists: On the Front-line of Healthcare

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 a radiologic technologist – 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 the responsibilities they have. Radiologic technologists are often one of the first healthcare members a patient might encounter. In an emergency room situation, the ER physician may decide, even before the ambulance has arrived, that the patient will go directly to the imaging department.

Become a Radiologic Technologist, Become Part of the Healthcare Team

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 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 should be handled first.

Five Fabulous Facts about Becoming a Radiologic Technologist

#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 2029 will increase by 7%.

#4. Become a radiologic technologist by passing the national competency exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

#5. Those who become radiologic technologists are in a top 15 health care support job, according to annual rankings by U.S. News and World Report.

Finding Your “Right-fit” Work Setting

After earning a rad tech degree, there is a variety of worksite possibilities:

• Medical and surgical hospitals
• Physician offices
• Medical and diagnostic laboratories
• Outpatient care centers.

The job responsibilities are many, and will likely vary according to the day:

• Setting up and operating high-tech diagnostic equipment
• Conducting imaging on patients who have individual diagnostic imaging needs
• Providing comfort and care to patients as they undergo imaging procedures
• Capturing clear and complete images to aid a physician’s diagnosis
• Occasional consults with physicians on imaging options and patient positioning
• Monitoring radiation safety levels for patients and the entire healthcare team.

What a Two-Year Rad Tech Degree Delivers 

According to Salary.com, the average salary range for a new rad tech in 2020 is $44,618 to $56,340.

Want a recap of why students become radiologic technologists? Go to this “9 Reasons” blog.

Become a Radiologic Technologist at CUKC

Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) is a nonprofit, private, healthcare-focused 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 puts an equal emphasis on patient interaction skills and technical competency. Our radiologic technology degree program also features:

• On-campus radiologic technology equipment rooms
• Two on-campus demonstration suites
• Instruction in stationary and portable X-ray equipment, and C-arm technology
• Real-world clinical experiences in partner clinics throughout the Kansas City and surrounding areas
• Classes for the CUKC radiologic technology program begin in the spring and fall of each year.

Request information today and discover more about the profession by getting this free eBook: Your Complete Guide to a Career as a Radiologic Technologist.