Did you know that the radiology technology field began in 1895? Wilhelm Roentgen published his “One a New Kind of Rays” report about x-rays then. By February 1896, x-rays and their clinical applications grew.
Today, radiology technology is an indispensable technology in modern medicine. With it, physicians can make accurate diagnoses of illnesses and injuries. Physicians also use it to inform treatment plans and track patient progress.
By extension, radiologic technologists are vital members of healthcare teams. Their work includes operating imaging equipment to produce high-quality images. These include x-ray machines, CT scanners, ultrasound machines, and MRIs.
Radiologic technologists are in high demand, too, for many reasons. First, there’s a growing demand for healthcare services due to a growing and aging population. Second, technological advancements create more opportunities for radiology technologists.
So, are you interested in becoming a radiology technologist? If yes, consider earning an accelerated radiology tech degree.
You can earn it in 12-18 months and gain faster workplace entry. But it isn’t for the lazy and unmotivated either.
Read on and decide if pursuing an accelerated radiology tech degree is right for you.
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What Is an Accelerated Radiology Tech Degree?
Colleges and universities offer excellent fast-track radiologic technologist programs. Always check for valid regional and programmatic accreditation. Look for the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology accreditation.
Here are universities offering the best accelerated radiology tech programs.
- Boise State University
- University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
- Marian University
Definition of an Accelerated Program and Its Differences from Traditional Programs
The typical accelerated radiology tech degree program has these main features.
- Shorter time-to-completion, usually between 12 and 18 months
- Condensed coursework and clinical hours
- Fast-paced courses resulting in a more intensive schedule
In contrast, traditional programs have a longer time to completion, usually 2-3 years. Students enjoy a more spread-out learning format and more flexibility in clinical hours.
Typical Duration and Coursework
Again, an accelerated program has a shorter completion time of less than 24 months. But, the courses are the same or similar as in a traditional program, albeit at a faster pace.
The typical core courses include:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Radiographic procedures and techniques
- Radiation protection and safety
- Patient care
- Imaging technology
Online vs. In-person Program Options
Many accelerated programs are available in two learning formats.
- In-person programs feature the traditional classroom experience and face-to-face clinical rotations.
- Online programs offer more convenience and flexibility for students. Courses are completed online, but clinical rotations must be in person.
What’s the best choice between these two options? There’s no right or wrong choice. You must consider your interests, schedule, and learning style.
If you’re a working professional, consider online radiology tech degree options. But if you thrive in face-to-face settings, go for in-person programs.
Career Prospects for Radiology Tech Graduates
The radiology technician career prospects are among the best in the healthcare industry. You can look forward to high demand, steady employment, and good salaries.
Job Outlook and Demand for Radiologic Technologists
The projected job growth rate for radiologic and MRI technologists is 6% (BLS, 2023-2033). This is faster than average for all occupations, meaning there’s high demand. At this rate, about 16,000 openings are projected every year, on average.
The favorable job outlook and demand are due to:
- An aging population with a greater need for healthcare services
- Innovations and advances in imaging technology that increase the demand for radiologic technologists
- Better access to healthcare services among the general population
So, now is the best time to consider earning an accelerated radiology tech degree.
Common Employment Settings
After earning it, you’ll find rewarding employment in a wide range of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Imaging centers
- Private clinics
- Physician offices
Opportunities for Specialization
Then, you can choose to specialize in a specific area of imaging, including:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Mammography
- Bone densitometry
- Fluoroscopy
Being a specialist can bring in more career growth opportunities and better pay.
Common Job Roles for Radiology Tech Graduates
The wide range of job opportunities for radiology tech graduates is also a come-on. But these job opportunities don’t come on a silver platter either. You must be proactive in your job hunt and boost your resume’s attractiveness.
Radiologic Technologist
Also called a radiographer, a radiologic technologist is usually the first job for graduates. Think of it as setting the foundation for your expertise in more specialized jobs.
Your key responsibilities include:
- Perform x-ray procedures on bones, organs, and tissues
- Ensure patient safety by complying with proper radiation protection procedures
- Maintain patient records and imaging equipment
MRI Technologist
An MRI technologist specializes in magnetic resonance imaging technology. MRI machines use strong radio waves and magnetic fields to create images.
Your key responsibilities include:
- Prepare and position patients for their MRI scans
- Ensure patient safety and comfort
- Review MRI images for quality and clarity
CT Technologist
A CT technologist focuses on computed tomography scans. CT scanners create cross-sectional images of the body.
Your key responsibilities include:
- Ensure patient safety and comfort for their CT scan sessions
- Operate and maintain CT scanners
- Review CT scan images for quality, clarity, and usefulness
Mammography Technologist
A mammography technologist conducts breast imaging for cancer screenings. Mammograms are specialized x-ray images used to detect abnormalities in breast tissue.
Your key responsibilities include:
- Perform breast imaging procedures, including mammograms
- Educate patients about their importance
- Review the mammograms for quality, clarity, and usefulness
Fluoroscopy Technologist
A fluoroscopy technologist assists in real-time imaging for medical procedures. Real-time x-ray imaging allows doctors to observe internal organs in motion.
Your key responsibilities include:
- Prepare and position patients for their fluoroscopic procedures
- Operate fluoroscopy equipment and assist physicians during the procedures
- Ensure minimal radiation exposure
Every job has its specific training and certification requirements. But every one of these jobs starts with a radiology tech degree.
Salary Expectations for Radiology Tech Careers
Yet another benefit of being a radiologic technologist is the good compensation. You’ll also earn a higher income as you gain more experience and advanced training.
Average Salary for Radiologic Technologists
But it’s also important to set realistic radiologic technologist salary expectations. You won’t earn as much as, say, doctors, but you’ll earn more than many other healthcare workers.
The median wage for radiologic technologists was $73,410/year (BLS, May 2023). The highest earners raked in over $102,380/year.
MRI technologists earned higher median wages at $83,740/year. The top earners took in over $112,420/year.
Factors Affecting Salary
Are you deciding between an associate vs. bachelor’s in radiology technology degree? You should consider a bachelor’s degree for more career advancement opportunities. Plus, you’re more qualified for supervisory positions.
But if you want to test the waters first, earn an associate’s degree. Then, you can decide if a bachelor’s degree is necessary.
Besides the degree type and level, other factors that affect your salary include:
- Geographical location (i.e., urban areas usually have higher salaries)
- Specialization (i.e., MRI technologists earn higher salaries than general radiology techs)
- Experience level (i.e., entry-level techs earn lower salaries than more experienced techs)
- Work settings (i.e., hospitals tend to pay more than clinics)
Comparison of Earnings for Different Imaging Specializations
Here are the average annual earnings for different specializations.
- Radiologic technologist: $73,410
- MRI technologist: $83,740
- CT technologist: $85,223
- Mammography technologist: $86,517
- Fluoroscopy technologist: $95,899
Regardless of your specialization, you’ll find the job challenging but rewarding.
Pros and Cons of an Accelerated Radiology Tech Program
Pros:
- Faster entry into the workforce
- High demand for radiologic technologists
- Competitive salary potential
Cons:
- Intensive coursework with a fast-paced schedule
- Limited flexibility for part-time work
- May require additional certifications for specialization
Opportunities for Further Education and Career Growth
Why stop at earning an accelerated radiology tech degree? You must consider radiology tech certifications and licensing paths, too. Think of these as your foundation. Then, you should pursue advanced education and training for career growth, too.
Here are the best opportunities you must explore.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in radiologic sciences.
- Specialize in MRI, CT, or sonography for higher pay.
- Earn advanced certifications, such as ARRT or ASRT
- Transition to healthcare administration or radiology education
Don’t forget to pursue continuing education for radiology technologists. You’ll earn CE units to maintain your certification and be updated with updates.
Conclusion
When choosing an accelerated radiology tech degree program, consider these key factors.
- Current regional and JRCERT accreditation
- Program length, usually less than 24 months
- Comprehensive and challenging courses and clinical rotations
- Effective preparation for certification
- Reasonable tuition and financial aid options available
- Effective student support and career services
You must also consider your interests, career goals, and schedule. Check the availability of advanced education and training, too.
Always research programs even when these are accredited. You want to choose an accelerated program that aligns with your needs and goals. Indeed, making the right choice will have a huge impact on your future.
