Wharton County Junior College

Wharton County Junior College (WCJC) offers a two-year Radiologic Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. This program prepares students for a career as radiologic technologists by combining hands-on training and clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals and clinics. Students will learn to perform X-rays and other diagnostic imaging procedures while adhering to safety protocols that protect patients and staff from unnecessary radiation exposure. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam and apply for state licensure.

The Radiologic Technology program is structured as a full-time, 24-month course that includes both classroom instruction and supervised clinical rotations. Students are expected to attend classes and clinical sessions Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some evening and weekend clinical assignments. Throughout the program, students will gain expertise in patient care, radiographic techniques, radiation safety, and other essential skills for a career in radiology.

Upon graduation, students will be well-prepared for entry-level roles in hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers. The program also offers opportunities to pursue advanced certifications in specialized areas such as MRI, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine with further education.

The program curriculum consists of a mix of general education and radiography-specific courses, including Anatomy and Physiology, Radiographic Pathology, and Advanced Medical Imaging. Students will also complete several clinical rotations at medical facilities affiliated with WCJC. These rotations provide real-world experience and are a critical component of the program. Students must complete rotations on alternate shifts, including evenings and weekends, to meet program requirements.

During clinical rotations, students will gain experience at facilities such as Oak Bend Medical Center, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, and Memorial Medical Center. These sites provide a wide range of radiographic procedures, offering a balanced clinical education. Students are responsible for transportation to clinical sites, which may be located up to 76 miles from the Wharton campus.

The program tuition varies depending on residency status. For in-district students, the total cost for the first year is approximately $5,978, while out-of-district students pay $7,320. Out-of-state students pay $8,464. The second-year costs are lower, with in-district students paying $4,352, out-of-district students paying $5,694, and out-of-state students paying $6,838. Additional program fees, including books, uniforms, background checks, and testing fees, bring the total estimated cost to between $14,000 and $16,000 for the entire program.

To be considered for admission to the Radiologic Technology program, students must meet the following prerequisites:

• Complete WCJC application and program-specific application
• Minimum GPA of 2.5
• Completion of prerequisite courses, including:
  • BIOL 2401 (Anatomy and Physiology I)
  • ENGL 1301 (Composition I)
  • MATH 1314 (College Algebra)
• Immunizations and background checks
• CPR certification (American Heart Association)
• Access to a computer and internet for coursework

The Radiologic Technology program admits only 18 students per year, making the selection process competitive. After completing the required applications, students must undergo an interview with program faculty. Final acceptance is based on GPA, academic history, and the interview. Applicants are notified of their status by June 30 for the fall start and February 28 for the summer start.

WCJC’s Radiologic Technology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), which ensures that the program meets industry standards. The current accreditation award is valid for eight years, reflecting the program’s commitment to high-quality education.

Graduates of the program are eligible to take the ARRT certification exam, which is required for licensure. Upon passing, radiologic technologists can find employment in hospitals, imaging centers, and clinics. Additionally, radiologic technologists can pursue further certifications in specialized modalities, including ultrasound, MRI, CT, and radiation therapy, to enhance their career opportunities.