Radiologic Technologist Education Requirements

If you’re considering a career as a radiologic technologist, understanding the education and certification requirements is key. Radiologic technologists are in high demand, and with the right education, you can join this vital field in about two years. This guide will explore the typical education requirements for an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in radiologic technology, including an example curriculum, the certification exam process, and the possibility of pursuing specializations to advance your career.

To become a radiologic technologist, most candidates follow these steps:

1. Earn an Associate’s Degree or Higher: Complete an AAS degree in radiologic technology from an accredited program.
2. Pass the ARRT Certification Exam: Obtain certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), which is a standard requirement for most radiologic technologist roles.
3. Meet State Licensure Requirements: Each state has unique licensure requirements for radiologic technologists, which typically includes passing the ARRT exam and adhering to continuing education requirements.

Now, let’s take a closer look at each step in the path to becoming a certified radiologic technologist.

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in radiologic technology is the most common educational pathway to becoming a radiologic technologist. The program provides the core skills, knowledge, and hands-on clinical experience necessary for entry-level roles in medical imaging. Here’s an overview of what to expect in terms of admission, curriculum, and program structure.

Admission requirements for an AAS in radiologic technology program generally include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• A minimum GPA (often around 2.5 or higher)
• Prerequisite courses in math and science, such as Algebra, Geometry, Chemistry, and Biology
• Some programs may also require a personal essay, professional references, and a criminal background check

The curriculum for an AAS degree in radiologic technology typically covers both classroom-based coursework and clinical training. Students learn essential skills in anatomy, imaging techniques, radiation safety, and patient care. Here’s a breakdown of some typical courses in a radiologic technology program:

• Radiographic Procedures: Covers positioning techniques for capturing high-quality diagnostic images.
• Anatomy and Physiology: Provides in-depth knowledge of the human body, including skeletal, muscular, and circulatory systems.
• Patient Care in Radiologic Technology: Teaches best practices for patient interaction, preparation, and comfort during imaging procedures.
• Radiation Physics: Focuses on understanding radiation and its interaction with matter, which is essential for safe and effective imaging.
• Radiographic Imaging: Instructs students on how to handle X-ray equipment and techniques for capturing images.
• Radiation Protection and Safety: Covers the basics of protecting patients and healthcare workers from unnecessary radiation exposure.

In addition to these courses, programs include clinical rotations where students work under supervision in a hospital or clinic to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting. Clinical rotations are essential for learning how to operate imaging equipment and perform radiologic procedures on patients.

First Year Curriculum

Fall Semester

Course	Credits
Anatomy and Physiology I	4
Introduction to Radiologic Technology	3
Patient Care in Radiologic Technology	3
Radiographic Procedures I	4
Total Credits	14

Spring Semester

Course	Credits
Anatomy and Physiology II	4
Radiographic Procedures II	4
Radiographic Imaging I	3
Radiation Physics	3
Total Credits	14

Summer Session

Course	Credits
Clinical Practicum I	2
Radiation Protection and Safety	3
Total Credits	5

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Second Year Curriculum

Fall Semester

Course	Credits
Advanced Radiographic Procedures	4
Radiographic Imaging II	3
Clinical Practicum II	4
Sectional Anatomy	2
Total Credits	13

Spring Semester

Course	Credits
Radiographic Pathology	3
Clinical Practicum III	4
Capstone Course in Radiologic Technology	3
Quality Control in Imaging	3
Total Credits	13

Summer Session

Course	Credits
Clinical Practicum IV	3
ARRT Registry Review Course	2
Total Credits	5

In this example curriculum, students complete both foundational courses in anatomy, radiographic imaging, and safety, as well as hands-on clinical training. The program culminates in a capstone course and registry review, preparing students for the ARRT exam.

Upon completing an AAS program, graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam. Passing the ARRT exam is a significant milestone, as it certifies your competency as a radiologic technologist and is often a requirement for state licensure. Additionally, ARRT-certified technologists must renew their certification every two years, which involves completing continuing education credits and adhering to ARRT’s standards of ethics.

Each state has its own licensure requirements, so it’s essential to check with your state’s regulatory board to ensure you meet all criteria for practice. In most cases, ARRT certification satisfies state licensure requirements.

After becoming certified and gaining experience, many radiologic technologists choose to specialize in specific imaging techniques or advanced modalities. Here are some popular specialization options that can lead to higher earning potential and expanded career opportunities:

1. Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist

CT technologists specialize in using computed tomography equipment to capture detailed cross-sectional images of the body. This specialization often requires additional certification through the ARRT in CT imaging, which involves coursework and clinical training specific to the modality.

2. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist

MRI technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging machines, which use magnetic fields and radio waves to create images. MRI certification, also available through ARRT, involves learning about MRI physics, safety, and patient care.

3. Mammography Technologist

Mammography technologists specialize in breast imaging, often working with women for routine screenings or diagnosing breast diseases. This specialization is popular in women’s health and requires additional ARRT certification in mammography.

4. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapists work with cancer patients, using radiation to target and destroy cancerous cells. While radiation therapy is a separate field from radiologic technology, some radiologic technologists transition into radiation therapy through additional education and certification.

5. Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiologic technologists assist radiologists with procedures that involve imaging to guide small instruments through the body, often for therapeutic purposes. These procedures can include angiography, biopsies, and stent placements. Interventional radiology requires advanced training and certification, as it combines imaging with minimally invasive techniques.

While an Associate’s degree is sufficient for most radiologic technologist positions, some individuals choose to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology. Bachelor’s programs usually take an additional two years beyond an Associate’s degree and offer more comprehensive training in advanced imaging, healthcare management, and leadership.

With a Bachelor’s degree, radiologic technologists are often eligible for supervisory roles, specialized imaging positions, and teaching opportunities in radiologic technology programs. Many Bachelor’s programs are designed as “completion programs,” meaning they allow Associate’s degree holders to transfer credits and finish their Bachelor’s degree in less time than a traditional four-year program.