Radiology school
provides students with ample training for a radiology career, and radiology
continuing credits are available for further study. A radiology career can lead to
opportunities as a radiology technician, xray technician, or diagnostic medical
sonographer. A radiologist is involved with producing x-rays to diagnose health
and medical problems, and helping patients become situated as they take
pictures. A radiologist can also be involved with complex imaging procedures and
operating various types of medical equipment and machinery.
Job Description and Responsibilities of Radiology School Graduates
Graduates of radiology schools
are expected to:
-
Positioning patients
appropriately to capture relevant images
-
Work with radiographic
equipment
-
Perform complex imaging
procedures such as fluoroscopies
-
Operate CT scanners and use
MRI technology equipment
-
Maintain patient records
-
Prepare work schedules and
manage radiology departments
-
Perform duties as an x-ray
technician or radiology tech
-
Ensure that all doctors’
instructions are carefully followed
-
Protect patients and
coworkers from unnecessary radiation
Career Options After
Radiology
School
and Radiology Continuing Education
Students of radiology school, and those who pursue a radiology
continuing education program
can choose to work in:
Radiology school can also prepare students for specialization in
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) diagnostic
imaging technologies. A radiology career can lead to a position as an:
-
X-ray
technician
-
Nuclear
medicine technologist
-
Cardiovascular technician
-
Diagnostic imaging specialist
-
Medical
sonographer
Radiologist Training & Certification
A radiology school can create a
foundation for a long-term radiology career. A prospective radiologist can take
a radiology course to focus on hands-on training where they learn how to create
x ray images, and manage complex radiology equipment. Training programs can
range between one to four years in length, and most graduates of radiology
schools can pursue a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree.
A 1-year certification program
for radiology continuing education is also available for students who have
obtained a bachelor’s degree in radiology. A radiology course can be best
supplemented with a high school diploma with a focus on chemistry, mathematics,
biology, and anatomy. Radiology technician schools can prepare students with
hands-on training and developing skills to manage equipment and machinery.
Common courses in a radiology technician program or x ray technician focus
include courses in:
-
Patient care procedures
-
Medical ethics
-
Pathology
-
Radiobiology
-
Medical terminology
-
Physiology
Clinical training is also a
component of a radiology course of study. X-ray technician schools also provide
training in operating complex equipment and the study and research of x-rays.
Radiologists, radiologist
technicians, and x ray technicians may also pursue a license to obtain a
competitive edge. Staff radiology tech and xray technician positions can also
specialize in CT scans, angiography, or MRI’s. Director positions may lead to
work as a sales rep or research and development with a radiology equipment
manufacturer.
Radiology School Accreditation
The Joint Review Committee on
Education in Radiologic Technology serves as the approval board for many
radiology training programs. Professionals who have graduated from an approved
program can receive a license from The American Registry of Radiologic
Technologists.
Radiology Career Earning Potential and Employment
Prospects
The average radiology tech, xray technician, and radiology
technician made $38,970 in 2002. Earnings can vary depending on career position,
education level, and any certification or training
completed. The demand for radiology technicians and xray technicians is high as
doctor’s offices and diagnostic imaging centers look for skilled and experienced
workers. Related occupations include:
-
Clinical laboratory
technologists
-
Radiation therapists
-
Nuclear medicine
technologists
-
Respiratory therapists
-
Cardiovascular technologists
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