Radiologic technology is an impactful field of study that combines scientific testing with hands-on patient care. It uses radiation and specialized technology to capture medical images of tissues, organs, bones, and blood vessels. As such, radiologic technology is critical to healthcare, giving providers the detailed imaging they need to make diagnoses and monitor certain conditions, such as arthritis and cancer.

If you are seeking a meaningful career that blends science with human connection, that sits on the cutting-edge of healthcare, and that does not require a long investment in school, becoming a radiologic technologist is a great choice. U.S. News ranks radiologic technologists among the top health care careers and STEM jobs, due to the high salary potential, room for career growth, and overall job satisfaction.

So, what do you need to get started? Let’s explore what a radiologic technologist does and the specific steps to become a radiologic technologist today.

What is a radiologic technologist?

Before we discuss how to become a radiologic technologist, let’s take a step back and discuss what this career entails.

Radiologic technologists, sometimes referred to as radiographers or X-ray technicians, are the professionals who capture medical images using a variety of specialized equipment, such as CT scanners, X-ray machines, MRI equipment, and mammography units. However, these professionals don’t just work with technology—they also work with patients. Radiologic technologists help position patients’ bodies for accurate imaging, as well as ensure other parts of their body are protected from radiation. Additionally, radiologic technologists can be found:

• Preparing patients for imaging, which might include taking medical histories or administering contrast agents (e.g. special dyes or drinks) before imaging
• Working closely with physicians to capture and evaluate medical imagery
• Adjusting, maintaining, and operating diagnostic equipment

Learn more about what radiologic technologists do here.

Because radiologic technologists operate medical equipment and work so closely with patients to capture accurate images, their training and medical knowledge are quite in-depth. For aspiring technologists, though, there’s good news: It only takes a few years to complete the necessary prerequisites.

How to become a radiologic technologist

1. Pursue a degree in Radiography.

An associate degree in Radiography or Radiologic Technology is the standard educational requirement for these professionals. This degree typically takes two years to complete.

An associate degree in Radiography, such as the one at Goodwin University, should combine academic study, clinical experiences, and interpersonal skill development within its curriculum. This way, students can receive the technical knowledge they need to carry out their job, as well as the practical experience needed to operate equipment and make patients feel comfortable.

Explore the Radiography degree requirements here!

2. Gain hands-on experience and skills.

Before launching a career in radiologic technology, it’s important to hone your skills and gain experience in patient care. This typically can be done through your degree program. At Goodwin, for example, Radiography students complete five clinicals over the course of their study, in addition to three laboratory courses. These mandatory, hands-on experiences allow them to develop practical skills in various career settings (hospitals, clinics, and more). Students get the opportunity to work with various X-ray and fluoroscopic equipment, as well as learn a variety of digital imaging techniques, patient safety procedures, and quality control methods prior to graduation day.

3. Pass the certification exam for radiologic technologists.

Most states today require radiologic technologists to become licensed or certified. And even if states do not require it, most employers will prefer to hire candidates with certification. This process usually involves passing a certification exam.

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers a certification exam that’s widely recognized and respected in the profession. Successful completion of the ARRT exam shows that you have met rigorous standards and are committed to your career, which will, in turn, position you for growth.

To become a certified radiologic technologist through the ARRT, you must:

• Complete your associate degree in Radiography (or related field) from an ARRT-approved program
• Comply with the ARRT Standards of Ethics, to ensure you can provide safe and effective patient care
• Successfully pass the ARRT examination

When you graduate from Goodwin’s Radiography degree program, you will be eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists’ certification exam. Successful completion of this exam is needed to become a radiographer or radiologic technologist in Connecticut.

Other advice to become a radiologic technologist

In addition to completing the requirements above, prospective radiologic technologists may also consider:

• Earning additional health certifications, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or basic life support (BLS). These can help you stand out to prospective employers.
• Specialize in a certain area of radiography. After completing your education and gaining experience as a technologist, you can pursue additional ARRT credentials and specialize in certain areas of radiography, such as mammography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and radiation therapy, to name a few. Explore your options here.
• Showcase your skillsets. Employers will prefer to hire candidates who demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, good attention-to-detail, advanced technology know-how, and who are well-versed in scientific and medical terminology.

Become a radiologic technologist in Connecticut

Radiologic technologists are ever-important in the evolving field of healthcare, as providers depend on diagnostic imaging to detect disease, treat patients, and manage chronic conditions. And, these technologists get compensated well for all that they do. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic technologists earn almost $80,000 annually, on average, in the United States.

If you’re craving a high-tech, high-paying career where every day can make a difference — and you’re looking to land this career fast — consider becoming a radiologic technologist.

Goodwin’s Radiography degree program, based in Greater Hartford, Connecticut, can be completed in 20 to 24 months part-time, after prerequisites. The part-time format of this program gives great flexibility to those who are already working, balancing a family, or changing careers. Upon completion of the program, graduates can sit for their ARRT certification exam and pursue fulfilling careers in hospitals, outpatient clinics, imaging centers, physicians’ offices, and more.

Learn more about Goodwin’s associate degree in Radiography, and start on your path to becoming a radiologic technologist. Visit us online to request information today!