Why…and How to Become a Radiologic Technologist

Part of your search for a “perfect fit” career is figuring out how to be a respected contributor on a team in a high-growth profession, right? In learning how to become a radiologic technologist, you’ll be preparing yourself to be a member of a professional health care team who performs the diagnostic imaging examinations that are quickly replacing exploratory surgeries and invasive procedures.

More than 61% of radiologic technologists practicing today go for the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree, according to the 2017 Enrollment Snapshot report published by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT).

Because the A.A.S. degree emphasizes accelerated class formats and a year-round schedule, you can earn a rad tech degree in as little as two years. (Another degree option is a traditional 4-year degree, which includes additional coursework not related to the radiologic technology career.)

Those students choosing an A.A.S. degree path are deeply interested in a patient-centered role, and they are eager to be part of a health care team working in a hospital, outpatient center, or medical clinic.

Essential elements of an A.A.S. in Radiologic Technology degree program:

• The classroom learning is fully integrated with guided laboratory sessions using contemporary imaging equipment. The University has on-campus full-function X-ray bays and demonstration suites.
• It’s a comprehensive program. Classes and lab sessions cover everything from health care terminology, Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems, and imaging processes and technology. Expect instruction that also teaches you about special imaging procedures for those who are injured or have a disability.
• The university’s program provides instruction and insight for developing soft skills so vital in today’s customer-service environment. Plus, these skills help you become proficient in working one-on-one with people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures.
• The university has an established network of healthcare outlets to get field experience as soon as you’re ready.

How to Become a Radiologic Technologist

Experienced rad techs say deciding to learn how to become a radiologic technologist is like having the best of both career worlds. You’re a highly trained professional whose work is leading directly to better medical care, and you’re frequently involved with people at the same time.

Characteristics indicating you’re a good fit for a rad tech career:

• Interest in establishing a rapport with people
• An active listener who’s responsive to patient needs
• Takes responsibility, shows initiative
• Ability to show compassion
• Attention to detail, organized

Unique capabilities of radiologic technologists:

• Adaptability to changing imaging scenarios, including trauma cases
• Physical ability to gently and strategically position patients for imaging
• Technical aptitude to use and adjust imaging equipment.

Not all rad tech degrees are the same, so do your research and do campus visits. In programs with a year-round schedule, you can earn an A.A.S. degree in Radiologic Technology in just two years. The rad tech degree program must provide the clinical experience and classroom education needed for registration and certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Preparing for How to Become a Radiologic Technologist

Foundational courses for a student interested in rad tech include anatomy, human biology, fundamental math, physics, and physiology – the study of organisms from the molecular to the system level.

Don’t stress about the academic coursework – your instructors should be field-experienced radiologic technologists who can give you the knowledge and guidance you need to be successful. What you learn in the classroom will be reinforced with practice time in the lab and the field.

By the Numbers: The Value of a Rad Tech Career

Learning how to become a radiologic technologist will reward your hard work and determination. Industry statistics offer convincing proof:

• According to the 2019 U.S. News survey, radiologic technologists rank #9 in Best Health Care Support Jobs, scoring high in job growth, salary, and work-life balance.
• An organization called Explorehealthcareers, whose mission is seeking to solve the shortage of health care professionals, says the rad tech career outlook is “excellent.”
• The average starting salary range for a new rad tech is above $45,000 per year. Rad techs with experience have a median salary of more than $55,000 .

How to Become a Radiologic Technologist at CUKC

Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) is a nonprofit, private, health-care focused university located in Overland Park, Kansas, a suburb of the Kansas City Metro.

Rad tech students at Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) complete their Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Radiologic Technology degree in as little as two years using a year-round schedule of focused eight-week evening courses.

Classroom knowledge combined with hands-on training and directed experience in the University’s on-campus radiologic equipment rooms, two demonstration suites, and clinical experiences at imaging centers in the Kansas City area.

Get detailed information now or download this new, free ebook about the profession: Your Complete Guide to a Career as a Radiologic Technologist. Do it today!