Whether you’re finishing high school or getting ready for that first career step, never forget the power of asking the right questions. “Sometimes we get so caught up in appearing smart that we become afraid to ask the question that will actually make us smart,” says writer John Hawkins. When considering careers, you’ll want to learn all you can about earning a medical imaging degree.
So, if you know a four-year college degree is not your priority, perhaps you’ve explored options for “2 year associate” or “health science” degrees. Having done that, “radiologic technology program” or “medical imaging degree” likely caught your attention.
Those professionals who’ve chosen to produce the medical diagnostic images so essential to healthcare today are well-positioned for career success. Below, you’ll find some powerful questions/answers to get you well-informed about the radiologic technology profession.
1. What is a radiologic technologist, and what do they do?
Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers, are healthcare professionals who perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. They work closely with radiologists to produce medical images to assist in patient diagnosis and treatment. Learn more here: “What is a Radiologic Technologist?”
2. What educational requirements are needed to become a radiologic technologist?
To become a radiologic technologist, you need to complete an accredited radiologic technology program. When getting to do direct patient care and entering the workforce as quickly as possible are the goals, most students choose the 2-year Radiologic Technology program, resulting in an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree.
Accredited programs include classroom instruction and clinical training. Learn more here: “Radiologic and MRI Technologists: How to Become a Radiologic or MRI Technologist.”
3. What certification or licensure is required for radiologic technologists?
Most states require radiologic technologists to be licensed or certified. After completing an accredited program, certification is usually obtained through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) by passing an examination.
Learn more here: “How to Become Certified and Registered.”
4. What are the job prospects for radiologic technologists?
The job outlook for those with a medical imaging degree is generally favorable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Learn more here: “Radiologic and MRI Technologists: Job Outlook.”
5. What are the typical work settings for radiologic technologists?
Radiologic technologists can work in various healthcare settings, including
They may also specialize in specific areas, such as mammography, sonography, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Learn more here: “Radiologic Technologist Workplaces.”
6. How do I choose a radiologic technology program?
The answer to this vital question has 6 parts.
When considering the return on investment (ROI) for educational funds for a medical imaging degree, it’s important to look at the potential salary and job opportunities. The salaries for radiologic technology program grads can vary, depending on specialization, geographic location, and the type of work environment.
Remember to consider factors beyond salary alone when evaluating the ROI of your educational funds. Job satisfaction, career advancement opportunities, and the potential for long-term growth in the field deserve consideration.
1. Salary Expectations
Newly certified radiologic technologists in the Midwest can expect salaries ranging from $46,000 to $48,000. According to workforce data by Salary.com, the compensation for experienced rad techs ranges to $59,835.
2. Career Growth
Due to the enhanced diagnostic capabilities of medical diagnostic imaging, rad tech grads have a terrific long-term future. One career site gives rad tech 5 of 5 stars for job growth.
3. Options in Work Environment
Although nearly half of all rad techs work in hospitals, diagnostic imaging is increasingly found in the offices of physician groups, urgent care centers, and medical labs.
Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) is a nonprofit, private, chiropractic and health science university in Overland Park, Kansas, a part of the Kansas City metro. Founded in 1922, we’re devoted to educating and developing leaders in healthcare and health promotion.
Within our College of Health Sciences, CUKC offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Radiologic Technology that most students complete within two years.
Features of our 2-year A.A.S. program include:
One final question: shouldn’t you learn more about the 2-year CUKC radiologic technology program? Connect with a CUKC admissions advisor and receive our free eBook: Your Complete Guide to a Career as a Radiologic Technologist.
