How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Skills, Qualifications, Education, And More

16 November 2024

How to become a radiology tech? You can start your career by getting an associate degree in radiology.

However, if you get an advanced degree, you can qualify for leadership roles. Then, you must consider specializing in a radiology area. Moreover, you must earn a certification from ARRT if you want to get a state license.

In this article, you will learn about how to become a radiology tech and pursue a career in the field. This article also guides you through the factors you must consider as you prepare to become a radiology tech.

Finally, you will get a step-by-step guide on pursuing a career as a radiology tech. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.

How to Become a Radiology Tech? – A General Overview

Generally, a radiology tech performs important diagnostic imaging procedures. Also, they perform scans to get a better idea of a patient’s health condition. This helps radiologists and physicians better. If this job seems interesting to you, you must consider pursuing a career as a radiology tech.

However, you must understand the different requirements for becoming a radiology tech. This can help you successfully land a job at a reputed place.

A radiology tech is a healthcare professional who helps in finding out health issues with patients. If you become a radiology tech, you have to operate X-rays and other medical imaging tech to find out problems.

Moreover, you will have other duties as well. For instance, you might need to explain radiology procedures to patients and handle complex imaging machines. Moreover, you also need to ensure the compliance of safety protocols.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Survey, the average radiology tech salary is $73,410 (2023 data). Moreover, you will have better-earning potential with some radiology tech specializations like MRI scanning, nuclear medicine, radiation therapists, etc.

Radiology Tech Specializations

Once you pursue a career as a radiology tech, you must have one or more specializations.

Some specializations include:

Medical Imaging like X-rays, CT Scans, MRI, and mammography

Nuclear Medicine

To become a radiologist technician, you must complete a high school diploma and then pursue a radiology program. Then, after you choose your specialization, you must get a radiographer certification. After that, you can prepare your resume and then apply for jobs.

How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Factors To Consider

If you want a service in the healthcare industry and also want plenty of contact with patients, you will enjoy a career as a radiology tech. In fact, to start working, you just need an associate degree in radiology or a similar field.

However, if you want early success in this career, you must have an eye for detail. Also, having good math and technical skills will help you grow a lot. Apart from that, you need to show a compassionate outlook.

On the other hand, this is actually a physically demanding job. Apart from that, this field is constantly evolving. Hence, if you have more stamina than others and you can adapt to different conditions, you can succeed in this job.

The following are the major factors you must consider if you want to know how to become a radiology tech:

Radiology Tech Job Description

As a radiographer, you might practice radiography or specialize in different medical imaging techniques. Actually, you have to work with doctors and radiologists to produce images of patients’s organs.

The following are some of the major tasks you will need to do as a radiology tech:

Prepare patients for radiology tests. Also, you must explain the procedure to them and make them remove metal objects from their body.

Perform tests like X-ray exams, mammograms, MRI scans, etc.

Sometimes, you must review patient histories, doctor reports, charts, etc.

Position patients and align them with machines. Additionally, you must calibrate machines to accurately produce images.

Moreover, you must follow safety protocols and shielding devices. This way, you can save yourself, patients, and other coworkers from harmful radiation.

You must check the clarity of images and explain them to doctors in your team.

Since you know the correct procedure to use equipment, you need to sterilize and store imaging equipment accordingly.

You must control radiology tech equipment in such a way as to produce accurate images with enough density and detail.

Stay updated about radiation equipment and its safety measures. Also, you must learn how to use protection devices.

You must have basic information about state and federal regulations and the policies of medical institutions. This way, you can ensure compliance with those regulations and policies.

Radiology Technician (Xray Tech) Specializations

Here are the major specializations of a radiology tech out of which you need to choose yours:

X-rays

Computed tomography (CT)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Sonography

Bone densitometry

Nuclear medicine

Vascular interventional radiography

Mammography

Cardiac-interventional radiography

Essential Qualifications And Education

To become a radiology tech, you can take different educational approaches. This is because there are several pathways to explore.

The following are some of the most popular options to consider:

🎓LXMO Certificates

You need almost a year to complete LXMO certificates. Basically, with the help of these certifications, you can quickly become a radiology tech. However, there are some drawbacks to consider.

For instance, if you have something less than an associate degree, you cannot earn an ARRT certificate. As a result, you will not qualify for a radiology tech license in some states.

🎓Associate Degrees

Generally, associate programs are for two years. Once you complete them, you can get a good exposure to radiology technology. Apart from that, these programs also include hands-on clinical experience and general education classes.

🎓Practitioner Certificates

A degree course takes a lot of time and effort. Hence, radiology tech expands their qualification by earning certificates with specializations. However, these certificates are for practicing individuals and not starters in the field.

🎓Bachelor’s Degree

A four-year degree in radiology technology will give you a deep dive into medical imaging. Also, you can develop a big picture in the radiology field. Also, you will gain various communication and analytical skills. Hence, you will be ready for managerial and supervisory roles.

🎓Master’s Degree

If you want to pursue further studies in the field of radiology technology, a Master’s Degree is the way forward. This will prepare you to pursue extensive knowledge in the subject. Also, you can be prepared for leadership and advanced practice. Moreover, you will have a chance to become a registered radiologist assistant.

How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Steps To Follow

To become a radiology tech, follow the steps below:

1. Pass a Diploma or an Equivalent Program

Here, you just need to earn a high school diploma or the GED test. Moreover, you will benefit from taking classes in the PCMB (Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Biology). Once you have a solid background in these subjects, you will have a better understanding of radiology and its technologies.

Moreover, you can consider volunteering at a healthcare center. This will help you understand the work environment.

2. Complete an Accredited Radiology Program

Many medical facilities and employers look for radiology tech with formal education and certification. Hence, you must pursue a hospital-based or college-based program with JRCERT accreditation.

Hence, you must consider getting a two-year associate degree in radiology tech. This will ensure you an entry-level position. However, for supervisory and administrative roles, you might need a Bachelor’s or a Master’s Degree.

After getting your specialization, you must complete your clinical training at a major hospital or a diagnostic center. This will help you to get placements after you complete your training.

3. Earn A Certification

To start working, you have to show a state board license along with an ARRT certification. However, to get this certification, you must have a Bachelor’s degree. Also, you must meet the ethical requirements of this certification.

Moreover, to maintain your certification, you must complete various continuing education courses in radiology and radiography. Furthermore, you can also choose advanced training as you complete the former.

4. Prepare Your Resume And Apply For Jobs

With the help of an effective resume, you can improve your chances of securing an interview. However, make sure you get tips on your resume from a professional. Additionally, ensure your resume is concise and has a professional summary of why you are the right person for the job.

Apart from that, your resume must also contain brief details about your skills, experience, and educational background. Moreover, you must also ensure that your resume is tailored to your job requirements.

Land Your Radiology Tech Job Now

You now know how to become a radiology tech. You have seen that these professionals perform multiple medical imaging procedures, CT scans, and X-rays.

However, as a radiology tech, you will be working with medical teams consisting of doctors, registered nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Hence, consider working on your communication skills.

Do you have more suggestions on how to become a radiology tech? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.

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Soumava Goswami

A passionate writer and an avid reader, Soumava is academically inclined and loves writing on topics requiring deep research. Having 3+ years of experience, Soumava also loves writing blogs in other domains, including digital marketing, business, technology, travel, and sports.

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Five Things to Do Before You Finally Make a Career Switch

Making the decision to switch careers is a big one! It’s not a decision you should take lightly, which means you have probably spent a lot of time thinking it through and deciding where you want to work. But, once you have decided you want to make the switch, what comes next? Here are some tips that will ensure your switch is as successful as possible once you’ve committed to a new career. Work on Your Leadership Skills No matter what career you have decided to take on, it’s a good idea to improve your business and leadership skills. It’s a great way to build more confidence before you take on a brand-new role, and it shows prospective employers that you’re serious about making the switch and sticking with it. A few ways you can work on your business and leadership skills include: Sign up to see an expert speak on a topic you’re passionate about Take a class online or in-person Get a new certification or endorsement Take on a new project at your existing job Work on your communication skills Practice your leadership skills outside of work Volunteer Just because you think you know what new field you want to get into doesn’t mean you’ll actually like it when you get there. As you’re working on your leadership skills, you should also look for ways to put your new skills into practice in your chosen field. The best way to do that is to volunteer. Volunteering may not pay you any money, but it’s a great way for you to experience a new field. Not only can you learn more about the specific position you’re interested in, but you may also discover other positions within the same field that you never considered. Not to mention, it’s a great way to meet people who work in the field you’re interested in. They make great references, and you never know—one of them may be able to refer you to your dream job! Create a Timeline Just because you have decided you want to make a career change and you know what career you want doesn’t mean you know how to make it happen. It’s especially important to get realistic about exactly how much time it’s going to take to meet your goals. It can take a long time to find a job, and it can take even longer if you’re switching careers. Create a timeline so you can break down the switch into manageable steps. You’ll want to include any classes, degrees, or endorsements you need to get first, set aside time to create a new resume, consider how many job applications you want to fill out every week, and more. Although you may want to make the switch sooner rather than later, it is much better to create a timeline and go slowly. Make sure you save plenty of money throughout the process so you have funds to fall back on if things don’t go according to plan. Focus on Your Boundaries Making the switch to a new career isn’t something you can do overnight. While you wait it out at your existing job, it’s a good idea to focus on your professional boundaries. Just because you think you will like your new career better doesn’t mean it’s better for your overall quality of life. Think about the kinds of boundaries you want to set to ensure the transition is successful, and give them a try at your existing job. Don’t reply to emails after a certain time every night, insist on taking all of your vacations, and work on communicating your needs more clearly, just to name a few. Manage Professional Relationships Just because you have one foot out the door at your current job doesn’t mean you should burn bridges there before you leave. You should work on maintaining your existing professional relationships while you build new relationships with people in your new field. For example, you’ll want to tell your boss in person when you resign rather than doing it over email. Give your job 100 percent through your very last day, and make sure those you worked with know you’re thankful for the opportunity you had to learn and grow. You never know when those old connections could come in handy! There’s a lot more work to be done when you decide you’re ready for a new career. Follow these tips and the switch will be as painless as possible. Read Also: 8 Useful Tips for Personal Career Development B.Sc. Agriculture- An emerging career option in India Seeking a Healthy Career: 10 Tempting Medical Careers to Check Out

Externship vs Internship: What Are The Major Differences?

Externship vs Internship – Often many beginners in the job market or students in universities confuse these two terms. Generally, both are short-term professional learning experiences. Moreover, both are professionally valuable for beginners. Hence, knowing the difference between the two is important. In this article, you will learn about the difference between an externship and an internship. Additionally, this article will also explain the benefits of each of these professional experiences. Moreover, you will also learn common myths that persist among students and beginners. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article. Definition Of Externship In an externship, you have to perform job shadowing for a short time span. Basically, the focus here is to learn about a job profile by observing someone’s daily work routine. In general, people who go through externships (externs) are college/University students. However, the college might not choose to give credit to the student for an externship. Moreover, the length of an externship depends on the professional that the student is job-shadowing. In fact, it is the time that the professional can afford to offer to the learner. Basically, the program can last for a day or even eight weeks. Hence, a student can choose to perform multiple externships during a break period. Definition Of Internship An internship is a training program where the student/beginner learns while being on the job. Here, the intern works under an employer and learns by working on projects. Hence, an intern can have employee-like responsibilities. These include working on projects, organizing files, updating information, and more. Moreover, the learner can also earn college credits by working on internships. In some cases, the employer might also offer a small base salary to the learner. However, in other cases, an employer might not offer payments to the learner. For instance, if you are a student or a college grad, you can choose to complete an internship with a company during your school year. Moreover, if you have enough time, you can choose to complete multiple internships. However, you will need to inform your internship coordinator if you have a school semester to prepare for. Both externships and internships are helpful for college students to learn about different careers and job roles. Apart from that, in both cases, students can learn whether they want to pursue a career or not. Externship vs Internship: Key Differences The following are the major differences between an externship and an internship: Factor Externship Internship Compensation You might get no payment in an externship. This is because the work involves only observing a professional for a certain time period. Since you get to work with hands-on experience, you will receive compensation. However, in some cases, an employer might not offer compensation to an intern. Length An externship does not extend to more than eight weeks. In fact, in some cases, the externship can even end in a day. Basically, it depends on the amount of time that the professional you are observing can provide you. An internship requires at least two months and can extend to six months. In some cases, it can require more time. This is because you are learning with hands-on experience. Moreover, you will also find internships that align well with your University schedule. Course Credit Generally, students don’t receive course credits after an externship. This is because the length of an externship is short. In most cases, colleges/universities offer course credits for internships. Moreover, universities even encourage students to work as interns before they graduate. This is because students get good industry experience as they make progress. However, to ensure that your University recognizes your internship, you have to submit proof. Responsibilities In an externship, you do not need to complete any task. Also, there is no supervisor to give feedback on your work. In an internship, you will receive on-the-job training. Also, you have to contribute to the company’s workflow. Moreover, if your performance is good enough, the employer might provide you with a full-time opportunity after your graduation. Externship vs Internship: Major Benefits Here are the major benefits of an externship and an internship: Benefits Of An Externship One of the major benefits of an externship is that you will learn a lot about a particular job role. For instance, as a student, you will understand whether a given career is suitable for you or not. Moreover, if you are a professional, an externship will let you understand a career change better. Basically, with the help of an externship, you will have a good perspective on your career options. For example, if you are a business major and not sure about whether you want to join accounting or finance, you can do an externship in both. Moreover, you will also learn how to prepare for an interview or how to build a resume for the job role. Benefits Of An Internship The most important benefit of an internship is that you will have work experience before you become a full-time employee. In fact, it will be a competitive advantage while you are still in college or University. This is because employers always prefer someone with industry experience to a fresher candidate. Meanwhile, you will also learn the duties and responsibilities of different departments and responsibilities. This will help you a lot in your future jobs. Apart from that, while being an intern, you will get the chance to create a professional network. This will open up options for you after you graduate. Basically, if your internship has been a positive experience for you, you can transition easily to a permanent job. Additionally, if your performance was good enough during your internship, the employer can even consider offering you a permanent role. Externship vs Internship: Which One To Choose? Both externship and internship have their own benefits and opportunities. Hence, you must assess your situation and your future needs to choose the one that suits you the best. For instance, if you are unsure about whether to pursue a career or not, an externship might be the best option to choose. Here, you can check the daily work-life of a professional that you strive to be in the near future. On the other hand, if you are sure about your career path, you must look for an internship with an employer. This way, you will get practical work experience in a field. As a result, it will be easier to find a job after you complete your graduation. However, you will need to consider whether you have enough time to take on a full internship. How To Find Externships And Internships? To find a good externship or an internship, you can use your college’s resources and personal and social media connections. In fact, one of the best ways to find an internship or an externship is by completing your LinkedIn profile. This is one of the best platforms to create a professional network and look for job opportunities. Apart from that, you can also contact your college’s placement cell or talk to your academic counselor to offer some advice. Additionally, you will also learn about internship or externship opportunities through professional networking events. On the other hand, if you are confident enough, you can even try a head-on approach. For example, if you want to work for a particular company that you think can offer you a good opportunity, reach out directly to them. Ask them whether they have an internship or externship opportunity for you or not. Externship vs Internship: Common Myths A common myth of externships is that it does not help much in knowing about a job role. However, the fact is that if you choose the professional properly with the guidance of your academic mentor, you will have a great experience. Thereby, you will know whether a particular job is good for you or not. On the other hand, a big myth about internships is, “Interns mainly do beginner-level tasks…” However, the fact is interns do work on important and complex projects. This helps them gain industry experience early on. Another myth about internships is that only top-performing students get internships. However, the fact is that although internships are competitive, there are many places to look into. All you need is the right set of skills. Final Thoughts Externship vs Internship - Now you know the major differences between them. Basically, if you are unsure about whether to choose a career or not, an externship is helpful. On the other hand, if you want early industry experience, an internship is the way to go. Do you have more suggestions on how to look for externships and internships? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below. Read Also: How Many Jobs Are Available in Consumer Services? Copywriting Jobs 101: Essential Steps To Become A Copywriter How Many Jobs Are Available In Real Estate Investment Trusts?

Finding Your Path in Life: 5 Ways to Determine What You Want to Do in Life

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How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Skills, Qualifications, Education, And More