The Career
Radiologic technologists take X-rays and administer non-radioactive materials into patients’ bloodstreams for diagnostic purposes. These professionals produce X-ray films (radiographs) of parts of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems. Radiologic technologists prepare patients for examinations by explaining the procedure, removing articles through which X-rays cannot pass and positioning patients so that the parts of the body can be appropriately radiographed.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Be sensitive to patients’ physical and psychological needs
- Pay close attention to detail
- Be able to follow instructions and work as part of a team
- Have mechanical ability and manual dexterity
Employment and Salary Information
The radiologic technology profession is experiencing faster-than-average job growth. By 2020, the number of positions is expected to increase by 28 percent*.
In May 2013, average annual earnings of radiologic technologists were $56,760. The middle 50 percent earned between $44,950 and $67,360. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,060, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $78,440
The average salary for these professionals in Missouri is $24.34* per hour.
Radiologic technologists find employment in:
- General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
- Physicians’ Offices
- Outpatient Care Centers
- Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories
- Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation)
* Sources: U.S Department of Labor Statistics; State of Missouri
The Program
ECC, in partnership with the Rolla Technical Institute/Center, offers a program of study leading to an AAS degree in radiologic technology. Students learn to use complex X-ray and darkroom equipment designed to record images, which aid radiologists in diagnosing and treating various health problems.
After program prerequisites are met, radiologic technology is a two-year, selective program in radiography (the art and science of creating medical images using X-rays). Radiographers provide vital information to physicians to diagnose fractures, illness, disease processes and possible malignancies. The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee for Education in Radiologic Technology. Graduates of this program sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, a national certification examination. Those who pass the exam may sign the initials RT(R) following their name to indicate that they are Registered Technologists (Radiography).
Admissions Requirements
To enter this course of study, students must meet these institution and program-specific criteria:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission to ECC
- A placement test as specified by the college (some coursework requires minimum placement results)
- A completed radiologic technology application on file by the specified deadline (obtained from the Rolla Technical Institute/Center)
- Satisfactory criminal background check and drug screening upon admission
- Completion of prerequisites with a “C” or better prior to starting the program
Transfer Options
The AAS degree is designed for students seeking employment immediately upon graduation. However, many of the credits, particularly the general education electives received with this degree, may qualify as transfer credit at four-year schools. These decisions are made solely by the bachelor degree-granting institution, not ECC. Students seeking to transfer are advised to contact the institution of their choice before beginning a program or reviewing other degrees and coursework offered through ECC.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
The ECC Radiologic Technology Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee for Education in Radiologic Technology
20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, Illinois 60606-3182
312-704-5300
The Rolla Technical Institute/Center is a candidate for accreditation by the Commission of the Council On Occupational Education.
Contacts
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