Radiologic Technologist Pathway

Modern technology gives doctors many options for diagnosing a patient’s condition. Some techniques are invasive, others exploratory, and others are minimally or non-invasive. Diagnostic Imaging (DI) refers to a group of methods that utilize non-invasive techniques to identify and monitor certain diseases. DI is the field of medicine that uses non-invasive imaging scans to diagnose a patient. The tests and equipment used sometimes involve low radiation doses to create highly detailed images of an area.

The Importance of Radiologic Technologists

Radiologic Technologists take x-rays and CAT scans or administer nonradioactive materials into patient’s bloodstream for diagnostic or research purposes.

  • Position imaging equipment and adjust controls to set exposure time and distance, according to specification of examination.
  • Position patient on examining table and set up and adjust equipment to obtain optimum view of specific body area as requested by physician.
  • Monitor patients’ conditions and reactions, reporting abnormal signs to physician.
  • Review and evaluate developed x-rays, video tape, or computer-generated information to determine if images are satisfactory for diagnostic purposes.
  • Determine patients’ x-ray needs by reading requests or instructions from physicians.
  • Operate or oversee operation of radiologic or magnetic imaging equipment to produce images of the body for diagnostic purposes.
  • Operate digital picture archiving communications systems.
  • Perform procedures, such as linear tomography, mammography, sonograms, joint and cyst aspirations, routine contrast studies, routine fluoroscopy, or examinations of the head, trunk, or extremities under supervision of physician.
  • Adhere to radiation safety protocols to protect themselves and patients.

Learn more about being a Radiologic Technologist, including employment trends, salary averages, and related skills at O*Net or CareerOneStop.

Pathway in Action

Cassandra Gomez

Cassandra Gomez began her healthcare career at Antelope Valley Medical Center as a Technical Assistant Radiology but she always had dreams of becoming a Radiology Tech. In 2021, she applied for the Rad Tech pathway program through the Education Fund and it felt like a “dream come true”.

She mentions that going back to school full-time, while continuing to work full-time, during a pandemic “was a hard journey for sure, but I stayed focused.” With the support of her Education Fund Career Counselor she completed her course and graduated in June 2023.

Now that she’s confident that Imaging is the career for her she “plans to continue utilizing the Ed Fund to go into CT or Mammography. There are plenty of other opportunities within the Ed Fund that can help me further my education.”

Education or training requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Associate’s Degree (2 years)
  • Requirements to apply to programs may include:
    • General education classes
    • Science prerequisites: ex. Anatomy, Physiology
  • Complete an accredited Radiologic Technology program
  • Depending on school: full time daytime program, Mon-Fri (8am-5pm)

 

Accrediting Agencies

  • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

Why accreditation is important: An accredited school has been reviewed by an industry organization to ensure that quality standards are met and maintained, providing some assurance of receiving a quality education. Some employers, licensing boards, and graduate schools will only accept credentials earned at an accredited school. Attending an accredited school will often increase your opportunities in the long run, as employers usually prefer to hire people who have graduated from accredited programs. Attending a non-accredited program can affect future education, licensure and certifications.

Certifications/licensure

  • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

Please note: The above content is for informational purposes and is not intended to replace or provide any employer-specific requirements. Please be sure to check your employers’ job descriptions for specific requirements or consult your local HR department.

Interested?

If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, we encourage you to make an appointment with your Career Counselor/Regional Coordinator ​via MyEdFund, our secure, online member portal.

Please note that we receive a tremendous response to our education and training programs. Availability is not guaranteed and varies based on demand, available spots, and our partnerships with educational providers.

Your Career Counselor/Regional Coordinator can discuss these details with you and help you create an individualized education plan.

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