Pima Medical Institute

The Radiography program at Pima Medical Institute in Houston provides a solid entry into the medical imaging field, designed to prepare students for a career as a radiologic technologist. This 24-month program covers a range of essential skills, including anatomy, equipment operation, radiation safety, and patient care. With real-world labs that simulate professional settings, students can gain hands-on experience, ensuring they are prepared for clinical roles from day one.

The curriculum is thorough, offering both academic and practical training. Courses include general diagnostic radiography, bone densitometry, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). After completing the program, graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam, which is key to entering the workforce as a licensed radiologic technologist. Students will also have access to Pima’s Career Services team to assist with job placement after graduation.

The program lasts approximately 24 months and is delivered on campus. During this time, students undergo a combination of classroom education and clinical externships, which allow them to apply what they’ve learned in real-world medical settings. The clinical externships are critical for developing practical experience and networking opportunities with professionals in the field.

Students will cover a wide range of topics, from medical terminology and anatomy to more specialized subjects like radiographic imaging, positioning, and radiation protection. They will also be trained in patient interaction, as the role of a radiologic technologist includes answering patient questions, obtaining medical histories, and ensuring that patients are comfortable during procedures.

The program has a few key prerequisites:

• High school diploma or GED
• Completion of certain foundational courses, such as anatomy and physiology
• Applicants may be required to undergo background checks, drug screens, and vaccinations due to clinical externship requirements

A key feature of the Radiography program at Pima Medical Institute is its emphasis on hands-on training. From the very start, students work with industry-standard equipment that mirrors what they will use in professional settings. The clinical externship aspect allows students to gain valuable on-the-job experience in hospitals and clinics, providing opportunities for mentorship, resume-building, and potentially job placement upon graduation.

For those looking to continue their education after earning an associate degree, Pima offers an online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. This flexible program is ideal for ARRT-certified radiologic technologists seeking to advance their careers or move into leadership roles. Additionally, Pima also offers a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration for those interested in healthcare management positions.

Pima Medical Institute is committed to helping students transition from education to employment. The school’s Career Services team is available to provide guidance on job searches, resume writing, interview preparation, and career counseling. They also help connect students to job opportunities through externships and local medical networks.

The program’s focus on real-world application ensures that graduates are prepared to enter the workforce immediately upon certification. With training in a variety of imaging techniques, including MRI, CT, and general radiography, graduates have a wide range of career paths to explore in hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialty clinics.