5 Steps To Becoming A Radiology Technologist

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Are you interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, but not sure where to start? Do you have a passion for technology and patient care? Becoming a radiology technologist may be the perfect career path for you. Radiology technologists, also known as X-ray technologists or radiologic technologists, play a crucial role in the medical field by using imaging technology to help diagnose and treat diseases. In this article, we will guide you through the 5 steps to becoming a radiology technologist.

Radiology technologists are in high demand, and the field is expected to grow 7% by 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. With the increasing use of medical imaging technologies, the demand for skilled radiology technologists is on the rise. If you're interested in pursuing a career in radiology, here are the 5 steps to get you started:

Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or Equivalent

The first step to becoming a radiology technologist is to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. While in high school, focus on taking science and math courses, such as biology, chemistry, and algebra, as they will provide a solid foundation for your future studies. Additionally, consider taking elective courses in health sciences or medical terminology to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare field.

Relevant High School Courses:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Algebra
• Health Sciences
• Medical Terminology

Step 2: Complete a Post-Secondary Education Program

The next step is to complete a post-secondary education program in radiologic technology. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, universities, or technical schools and can lead to an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree. The program should be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), which is the primary accrediting agency for radiologic technology programs.

Types of Post-Secondary Education Programs:

• Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology
• Bachelor's Degree in Radiologic Technology
• Certificate Program in Radiologic Technology

Step 3: Gain Clinical Experience

Clinical experience is an essential part of becoming a radiology technologist. During your post-secondary education program, you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting. This experience will help you develop the skills and confidence you need to succeed in the field.

Types of Clinical Experience:

• Hospital setting
• Imaging center
• Clinic
• Private practice

Step 4: Obtain Certification

After completing your post-secondary education program and gaining clinical experience, the next step is to obtain certification. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification in radiography, as well as other imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and mammography. Certification demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality patient care.

Types of Certification:

• Radiography (R)
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Mammography (M)

Step 5: Maintain Certification and Pursue Continuing Education

The final step to becoming a radiology technologist is to maintain certification and pursue continuing education. The ARRT requires certified radiology technologists to complete continuing education requirements every two years to maintain certification. Additionally, many states require radiology technologists to be licensed or registered, which may also require continuing education.

Types of Continuing Education:

• Continuing education courses
• Workshops
• Conferences
• Online education programs

Gallery of Radiology Technologist

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to becoming a radiology technologist. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and pursue continuing education to succeed in this rewarding career.