Galveston College

Galveston College offers an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Radiography, a program designed for students seeking to enter the radiologic technology field. Radiographers, also known as radiologic technologists, are healthcare professionals trained to produce images of the human body using ionizing radiation. These images are vital for diagnosing diseases and injuries. Graduates from this program are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) board exam, a critical step toward becoming a licensed medical radiographer.

The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), ensuring that students receive high-quality education and training. The curriculum covers essential topics, including radiographic procedures, patient care, radiation safety, and image evaluation. This balanced approach prepares students for real-world situations in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers.

The radiography program spans five semesters over approximately 21 months. Students will complete both general education and radiography-specific courses, totaling 64 credit hours. The curriculum is designed following the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) guidelines. The coursework includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice, ensuring that students receive hands-on experience in radiographic imaging.

Key subjects covered include Anatomy and Physiology, Radiographic Procedures, Radiation Biology, and Radiographic Pathology. Clinical practicums allow students to apply the skills learned in class to real patient care, under the supervision of experienced radiologic technologists. This practical exposure ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the profession by the time they graduate.

Prerequisites:

• Complete the Galveston College admissions application.
• Submit the Radiography Program application by the deadline (May 20 for Fall, January 8 for Summer).
• Achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Completion of prerequisite courses (with a grade of “C” or better):
  • College Algebra (MATH 1314)
  • Anatomy and Physiology I (BIOL 2401)
  • Composition I (ENGL 1301)

Applicants must undergo an interview process with the program’s admissions committee, and final acceptance is based on a combination of academic performance, interview results, and clinical availability.

Students are required to participate in clinical rotations at local healthcare facilities as part of their training. These rotations provide crucial hands-on experience in patient care, radiographic imaging, and equipment operation. Students must also complete a mandatory background check, drug screening, and provide proof of immunizations before beginning clinical rotations.

Additional requirements include:

• CPR Certification (American Heart Association)
• Radiography lead markers
• Trajecsys Report System for clinical documentation

It’s important to note that students are responsible for their transportation and parking expenses related to clinical rotations. The program also encourages students to maintain health insurance.

The Galveston College Radiography Program aims to prepare students to be competent entry-level radiographers. Upon graduation, students will be able to:

• Produce high-quality diagnostic radiographs.
• Demonstrate empathy and compassion in patient care.
• Apply radiation safety practices, following the “ALARA” (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle.
• Communicate effectively with both patients and healthcare team members.

Graduates are expected to pass the ARRT certification exam and enter the workforce as qualified professionals capable of fulfilling the healthcare community’s needs.

The total cost of the program is approximately $7,000 to $8,500, including books and fees. Additional costs include background checks, drug screenings, CPR certification, and other personal expenses such as scrubs and radiography markers.

Financial aid is available for eligible students through a combination of grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Galveston College also offers various scholarships, ranging from $500 to $2,500 per academic year. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, financial need, leadership skills, and extracurricular involvement.