Is becoming a radiologic technologist right for me?
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How to become a Radiologic Technologist
Becoming a radiologic technologist typically involves the following steps:
- Obtain a high school diploma or GED: To be eligible for a radiologic technologist program, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete an accredited radiologic technologist program: You will need to complete a radiological science and technologies program that is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). These programs typically take one to four years to complete and result in a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree.
- Obtain licensure or certification: Most states require radiologic technologists to be licensed or certified. The requirements vary by state, but typically involve passing an exam offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or a similar organization.
- Gain clinical experience: Most radiologic technologist programs include a clinical component, where you will gain hands-on experience working with patients under the supervision of a licensed technologist.
- Consider additional certification: There are a number of additional certifications that radiologic technologists can obtain to specialize in certain areas.
- Maintain licensure or certification: Radiologic technologists are typically required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licensure or certification.
Certifications
There are several certifications available for radiologic technologists, which can help them advance in their careers and specialize in certain areas. Some of the most common certifications include:
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification: This is the most common certification for radiologic technologists in the United States. It is required in most states and involves passing an exam that covers the basic principles and practices of radiologic technology.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Certification: This certification is offered by the ARRT and requires additional education and training in CT technology. It demonstrates that a technologist has the skills and knowledge needed to perform CT scans.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certification: This certification is also offered by the ARRT and requires additional education and training in MRI technology. It demonstrates that a technologist has the skills and knowledge needed to perform MRI scans.
- Mammography Certification: This certification is offered by the ARRT and requires additional education and training in mammography technology. It demonstrates that a technologist has the skills and knowledge needed to perform mammograms.
- Nuclear Medicine Certification: This certification is offered by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and requires additional education and training in nuclear medicine technology. It demonstrates that a technologist has the skills and knowledge needed to perform nuclear medicine procedures.