Contents
Considering a career in radiology? You may be wondering if you need a degree to be a radiologist technician. Check out this blog post to learn more!
Checkout this video:
Introduction
Radiologic technologists, also called radiographers, perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays, on patients. Most radiologic technologists need an associate’s degree from an accredited program
While an Associate’s Degree in Radiologic Technology is the minimum educational requirement to pursue a career in this field, many technologists choose to further their education by completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Radiology. These advanced degrees can lead to higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement within the field.
What is Radiology?
Radiology is the study and use of X-rays to diagnose and treat patients. X-rays are a type of high-energy radiation that can pass through the human body. When X-rays hit objects inside the body, they create images that can be recorded on film or viewed on a computer screen.
Radiologists are doctors who specialize in interpreting X-ray images. They use these images to diagnose and treat patients. Radiology technicians are trained to operate the equipment that is used to take X-ray images. They work under the direction of a radiologist.
You do not need a degree to be a radiology technician. However, most employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed an accredited radiology program. These programs are typically two-year associate’s degree programs.
What is a Radiology Technician?
Radiology technicians are professionals who are trained to operate diagnostic imaging equipment. This equipment is used to create images of the human body for medical purposes. These images can be used to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions.
Radiology technicians typically work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic imaging centers. They may also work in private practices or research facilities. Most radiology technicians work full time, and some may work evenings or weekends.
Radiology technicians must be able to understand and follow complex instructions. They must also be able to maintain confidentiality about patients’ medical information.
What are the Educational Requirements for a Radiology Technician?
There are two types of radiology technician programs, certificate and associate degree. Both types of programs will prepare you for the workforce, but an associate degree may give you a leg up when it comes to job opportunities and earning potential.
A certificate program usually takes one year or less to complete, while an associate degree program takes two years. In both cases, you will take classes in radiologic physics, imaging procedures, patient care and anatomy. You will also complete clinical rotations in a hospital or other healthcare facility.
If you opt for a certificate program, you may be able to take advantage of on-the-job training opportunities. Many employers are willing to provide on-the-job training to qualified candidates who have completed a radiology technician program. This can be a great way to get your foot in the door and start your career without having to incure the costs of an associate degree program.
However, an associate degree may give you an edge when it comes to job opportunities and earning potential. In many cases, employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed an accredited radiology technician program at the associate level. Additionally, those with an associate degree may be eligible for higher paying positions than those with only a certificate.
In the end, the decision of whether or not to pursue a degree in radiology technology is up to you. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your decision and choose the path that is right for you!
What is the Job Outlook for a Radiology Technician?
The job outlook for a radiology technician is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of radiologic technologists and technicians will grow by 13 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for diagnostic imaging has increased as the population ages and healthcare providers use imaging to diagnose and treat conditions earlier. Advances in technology have also led to the development of new types of images, such as 3D images, which require specially trained technologists.
What are the Salary Expectations for a Radiology Technician?
The median salary for a radiology technician is $58,310 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest-paid 10 percent in the field earn more than $82,280 annually, while the lowest-paid 10 percent make less than $40,560 per year. Radiology technicians working in hospitals tend to earn higher salaries than those employed by other types of medical facilities.
Conclusion
Radiology technicians need to have at least an Associate’s Degree in Radiography, although some employers will prefer or require a Bachelor’s Degree. Many schools offer both two and four-year programs, and many students choose to start with a two-year program and then transfer to a four-year school to complete their Bachelor’s Degree. There are also certificate programs available, but these are generally for students who already have a degree in another field and just want to get the training they need to change careers.
