When you go to the doctor or the hospital you know there are staff members everywhere who each have an important job to do to help people heal and stay healthy. If you are interested in being part of this important healthcare community but aren't sure where to start read on to find out more about an Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology.
Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology
When you pursue an Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology you will be trained for the specific career of being a radiologic technologist or technician. You will gain the skills needed to operate and maintain the machines used to take x-rays, MRI's or CT Scans. In order to perform these procedures you will also learn how to position patients, administer correct safety precautions, and keep medical records. In most cases you will work directly under a radiologist or a physician.
An Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology generally takes 2 years to complete and is offered at many vocational schools and technical colleges. While there are some programs available online it is more common to complete this degree as a campus education because it involves some intense hands-on laboratory training. In some cases it is possible to specialize in one area of Radiologic Technology and focus your skills just on x-rays or magnetic resonance imaging.
Coursework
Since it is such a career-focused degree much of the coursework you need to complete an Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology will be similar from college to college. A portion of your classes will be classroom lectures but most will be practical hands-on training.
- Imaging Equipment
- Radiographic Procedures
- Medical Terminology
- Patient Care
- Anatomy
- Imaging Physics
Degree Programs
Even though the Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology trains you for a specific job, there are several other degree programs that allow you to start a similar career that involves medical imaging.
- Associate's Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Associate's Degree in Radiography
- Associate of Science in Cardiovascular Sonography
- Online Associate's Degree in EKG Technology
Finding a Career
Once you graduate with you Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology you will be able to find many entry-level jobs in a variety of medical settings and healthcare facilities. If you wish you advance you career and be a leader in your field you may need to go on to obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Radiology. Some healthcare settings to consider:
- Hospital
- Physician's Clinic
- Nursing Home Facility
- Diagnostic Laboratory
