Radiologic and MRI Technologists: Guide to Education and Certification
What Is a Radiology Technologist?
A radiology technologist is a healthcare professional responsible for operating medical imaging equipment, such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRI machines, to produce diagnostic images of patients' internal structures. They work under the supervision of radiologists and are trained to position patients correctly, operate imaging equipment, and ensure image quality while adhering to safety protocols. Radiology technologists play a crucial role in assisting physicians in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions.
How to Become an MRI Tech?
To become a radiology technologist, follow these general steps:
Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent: Graduation from high school or completion of a GED program is typically required to pursue education and training in radiologic technology.
Earn an associate's or bachelor's degree: Complete a program in radiologic technology, which may result in either an associate's degree (typically 2 years) or a bachelor's degree (typically 4 years). These programs include classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience.
Gain clinical experience: Participate in clinical internships or practicums as part of your radiologic technology program. This hands-on experience provides exposure to real-world patient care settings and helps develop practical skills.
Obtain licensure or certification: In most states, radiologic technologists must be licensed or certified to practice. Requirements vary by state but typically involve passing a certification exam from a recognized organization, such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Maintain certification: Radiologic technologists must meet continuing education requirements to maintain their certification and stay up-to-date with advances in the field.
Consider specialization: Radiologic technologists may choose to pursue additional certifications or specialized training in areas such as MRI, CT scanning, mammography, or nuclear medicine to expand their career opportunities.
Seek employment: Once licensed and certified, begin applying for positions as a radiologic technologist in hospitals, clinics, imaging centers, or other healthcare facilities.
MRI Tech Salaries
The median annual wage for physician assistants was $126,010 in May 2022 according to BLS.
Top Programs
Where Radiology Techs Work?
Radiology techs work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, medical clinics, imaging centers, outpatient facilities, and physicians' offices.
Education Requirements
Education requirements for radiology technologists typically include:
High school diploma or equivalent: Most programs require applicants to have completed high school or obtained a GED.
Associate's degree: Many radiology technology programs offer an associate's degree, which typically takes around two years to complete. Some programs may also offer a bachelor's degree in radiologic technology, which typically takes four years.
Accredited program: It's essential to enroll in a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or other recognized accrediting bodies. Accredited programs ensure that students receive quality education and are eligible for licensure or certification.
Clinical experience: Radiology technology programs include hands-on clinical training in addition to classroom instruction. This clinical experience provides students with practical skills and exposure to real-world patient care settings.
Licensure or certification: Most states require radiology technologists to be licensed or certified to practice. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically involve passing a certification exam from a recognized organization, such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
Job Outlook
The job outlook for radiology technologists is generally positive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Factors contributing to this growth include:
Increasing demand for medical imaging: As the population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases rises, there is a growing need for diagnostic imaging procedures to detect and treat medical conditions.
Technological advancements: Advances in medical imaging technology, such as digital radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET), continue to drive demand for radiologic technologists skilled in operating and maintaining these systems.
Expansion of healthcare facilities: The construction of new hospitals, clinics, and outpatient centers to meet the healthcare needs of expanding populations also contributes to job growth for radiologic technologists.
