how long is x-ray technician course

Full Answer

How many years of school to become a Xray technician?

You may select any one of the following :

• A certification program. The time duration for this program is 2 years (21 to 24 months).
• An associate's degree. The time duration for this program is 2 years.
• A bachelor's degree. The time duration for this program is 4 years.

How many years of college does an X-ray technician need?

X-Ray Technician Bachelor's Degrees. Individuals who are interested in advancing their career opportunities in the field of radiology can earn their bachelor's degree in order to set themselves apart from their peers. A bachelor's degree can be completed in four years or two years through a degree completion program.

How much school does a Xray technician need?

X-ray technician certification programs are available at the certificate, associate's degree, and bachelor's degree levels, although an associate's degree is most common among technicians. On all levels, coursework typically consists of classroom and laboratory instruction.

How long does X ray tech school usually take?

This can take another two years at some colleges, and four years at others, depending on if the school accepts past credits or not. For entry-level X-Ray Technician jobs, expect to spend 2 years in school, and for advanced careers, it will take about 4 years.

Is becoming an Xray Tech hard?

The subject matter involved in an x-ray technician program can be challenging. You'll need a firm understanding of the human body and how to use imaging equipment. During your program, you'll dive deep into topics such as: Medical terminology.

Is being an x-ray tech worth it?

The healthcare role rad techs have is vitally important and provides a high level of personal satisfaction. It's a top-20 healthcare job according to the U.S. News annual rankings. This high ranking is because imaging is rapidly replacing exploratory surgeries and other invasive procedures.

How long does it take to get an x-ray?

The good news for you is that X-rays are one of the quickest radiology exams you can get! Most x-rays only take less than 15 minutes to complete. How do I get an X-Ray? Once your doctor has recommended you to get an X-Ray, Great Lakes Medical Imaging can help you get your imaging needs taken care of in no time.

Is being an Xray tech stressful?

These are just a few of the many challenges radiologic technologists (rad techs) contend with every day. The job is physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. It's no surprise, then, that occupational stress and burnout are a reality for many rad techs.

How much does an x-ray tech make?

Radiologic Technologists made a median salary of $61,900 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $76,520 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $50,670.

What are 3 uses of X-rays?

Uses for X-Rays: A GuideCheck Symptoms in the Body. In the medical world, x-ray technology has many purposes. ... Diagnosing Injuries. A bone x-ray will use a small amount of ionizing radiation. ... Dental Check. A dentist will get images of your teeth with a dental x-ray. ... Mammography. ... Joint Changes and Arthritis.

What should I do after X-ray?

After an X-ray, you generally can resume normal activities. Routine X-rays usually have no side effects. However, if you're injected with contrast medium before your X-rays, drink plenty of fluids to help rid your body of it. Call your doctor if you have pain, swelling or redness at the injection site.

What do I need to know before getting an X-ray?

How do I prepare for an X-ray?Avoid using lotions, creams or perfume.Remove metal objects like jewelry, hairpins or hearing aids.Stop eating or drinking several hours beforehand (for GI X-rays).Wear comfortable clothing or change into a gown before the X-ray.

How Long Will It Take to Become an X-Ray Technician?

The best way to do this is to attend an Associate degree program, such as the one offered through Cambridge. Our program takes approximately 2 years to complete from start to finish.

What is the phone number for X-ray technician?

To learn more about our x-ray technician program or for answers to your questions, give us a call at 877-206-4279 or send us a message. We can’t wait to hear from you!

What is a radiology tech?

Radiologic technologists, also known as x-ray technicians, support other medical professionals in diagnosing illnesses and injuries. Using imaging equipment, x-ray technicians position patients and take images of the body. Through their work, patients receive the medical care they need to heal and thrive.

What Should I Look for in an X-Ray Technician School?

Accreditation: The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) 12 is the only agency with recognition from the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the United States Department of Education to accredit medical radiography programs. Make sure the program you enroll in is JRCERT-accredited.

Where Can I Work as an X-Ray Technician?

The largest employers of radiologic technologists and technicians in 2019 were as follows, according to the BLS: 7

What Will I Learn in a Medical Radiography Program?

Anatomy and Physiology I and II: These courses examine anatomy and physiology of the human body. You’ll learn about the structure and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems, as well as blood, growth and development, special senses and the cardiovascular, circulatory, lymphatic and endocrine systems.

What is Carrington College's medical radiography program?

Carrington College’s Medical Radiography Program offers you the hands-on training you need for a job in maintenance. Take the first step on your way to a new career.

How much will the radiology technologist job grow in 2029?

Radiologic technologists and technicians jobs are projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. 4. Employment as a radiologic technologist and technician, also referred to as an x-ray technician, can satisfy both a personal passion for technology and a calling to help others.

How much does an xray tech make?

You may be wondering, how much does an x-ray tech make? The BLS reports that the median annual salary for a radiologic technologist and technicians in May 2019 was $60,510. 5

What is Carrington College?

Carrington College focuses on small class sizes and hands-on training. Here you’re more than a face in a room. Take the first step on your way to a new career in Medical Radiography.

How long does an X-ray certificate last?

The time duration for certificate programs lasts for six months only. You are taught how to handle x-ray equipment, while treating patients. Your job is also to ensure minimal exposure of radiations to the patient's body. Other topics of discussions include patient care, the positioning and adjustments of the x-ray machines so that quality photographic or digital images are created for every patient.

How much does an xray technician make?

If a candidate has passed graduation and is a new x-ray technician, then he/she may attain an annual salary of approximately $38,000 to $42,000. As experience is accumulated, the salary increases to about $55,000 to $66000 per annum respectively

Why are x-ray technicians exposed to radiation?

X-ray technicians are exposed to diseases on a regular basis due to their work environment and requirements . Moreover, they are also exposed to harmful and disease causing radiations emitted by various machines used for x-ray procedures. Though contact cannot be completely ceased, training in the proper procedures is required to minimize exposure to radiation as much as possible.

What is X-ray radiation?

Based on the name of the radiation itself, an x-ray is a photographic image of the material. This image may also be digital in nature. The field of medical photography using X-radiations is done by an x-ray technician. Once the x-ray is taken, the technician prepares a report on the patient's results and conditions, detailing any abnormalities. This report is given to the physician for further analysis.​

What is the role of an xray technician?

As an x-ray technician, you must produce clear and accurate images of the patient's body. These images are then given to the patient’s physician. The physician further provides diagnosis and treats the patient according to the conditions stated in the report written by an x-ray technician. At this stage, the life of the patient is indirectly in the hands of the x-ray technician. You also play a vital role in easing the anxieties of the patient. Thus, it is of utmost importance that the technologist pay great attention to the instructions given by the physician.

What do you need to pass to become a radiology tech?

GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT - If a you intend to opt for a radiology technology program, then you need to pass the GED or the General Educational Development tests. These tests are a collection of four subjects tests that certify that the student has academic skills of the American or Canadian high school.

How long is a certification program?

A certification program. The time duration for this program is 2 years (21 to 24 months).

How long does it take to become an X-ray technician?

It takes approximately two years on average to complete an X-ray technician degree program, though how long it takes to start an X-ray technician career depends on your educational pathway and the state's licensing requirements. Although most X-ray technicians only need to earn an associate degree in radiologic technology to qualify for their roles, some may choose to pursue a bachelor's degree, which can extend how long it takes to earn their credentials. Those who complete a bachelor's degree spend four years on average completing their education. In most states, X-ray technicians must pass an exam to qualify for licensure.

What is an X-ray technician?

An X-ray technician is a medical imaging specialist who uses special equipment to capture images of a patient's internal structures. For example, if a patient comes to the hospital with a potential broken bone, the X-ray technician positions them in an examination room and uses an X-ray machine to capture an image of the injured area. After taking the X-ray, the technician submits the image for the patient's primary physician to interpret. Technicians primarily focus on preparing patients for X-ray imaging and using the equipment to capture the X-ray.

What skills do X-Ray technicians need?

To succeed in their roles, X-ray technicians need a combination of hard and soft skills. Here are some skills for X-ray technicians:

How long does it take to become a radiology tech?

The first, the pre-professional phase, takes 2-3 years to complete and consists of general education and prerequisite coursework. During the final 1-2 years, students enter the professional phase and complete their radiologic technology classes and supervised clinical experiences.

What Does an X-Ray Technician Do?

X-ray technicians (also known as X-ray technologists or radiologic technologists) use cutting-edge imaging methods to visualize the inside of the human body. The pictures they create help physicians diagnose and treat illnesses or injuries with great accuracy. Technicians have a unique opportunity to work with some of the most exciting and groundbreaking medical machinery available. They also get the satisfaction of assisting and supporting patients, including those who are nervous or in pain.

What is the accreditation for X-ray technology?

A number of states require that the program be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology ( JRCERT ). Check with your state’s medical board to make sure you are fulfilling requirements. Programs in X-ray technology include courses in anatomy, biology and physics.

What is the fastest way to start a career in radiology?

If you’re entering the field with no previous degree, earning your Associate in Applied Science in radiography or radiologic technology (AAS-RADT) is the fastest way to launch your career.

What classes do you need to get an AAS?

Before entering an AAS program, you’ll usually need to complete prerequisite classes in anatomy and physiology, writing, algebra, and statistics. Show Me Schools ».

How much does a radiology tech make?

The middle 80% of radiologic technicians earn between $42,180 and $92,660 annually.

Why do X-ray technicians need to be trained?

Because technology advances quickly, there is always something new to learn, and technicians continuously upgrade and enhance their skills through continuing education. In addition to operating imaging equipment, X-ray technicians are responsible for basic maintenance and upkeep of the machines. They also keep detailed records of each procedure.

How long does it take to become an xray technician?

You can begin a certificate program, which will take you around a year to complete. Most employers won’t hire those who only have a certificate, and would rather higher people with an Associate’s degree or higher.

How long does it take to get an xray technician license?

Skipping certification can make it hard to find a job. Certifications can take around one year, but there are many types of certifications that an x-ray technician can obtain.

What is a Certified X-Ray Technician?

A certified x-ray technician, also called a radiologic technologist, is someone who uses special equipment to take images of the inside of your body.

How much does an xray technician make?

With experience and training, an x-ray technician can make around $60,000. Education, training, and certifications are key to getting pay raises. When you gain experience and certifications, you’ll be able to work in more places. Also, you’ll make more money as you have more education.

Why are xray technicians important?

X-ray technicians are an important part of the medical field. With the rise of children’s sports and also the need for x-rays in pregnancy , there is a high demand for certified x-ray technicians.

What degree do you need to become an xray technician?

If you want to advance in your career, you are going to want to get a Bachelor’s or even a Master’s degree. It is possible to work and gain your degree at the same time, which is what a lot of certified x-ray technicians do.

What are the medical issues that will most likely require x-rays?

These medical issues will most likely require x-rays, issues like Alzheimer’s, Cancer, and many other disease.

How long does it take to become an X-ray tech?

A radiologic technologist program can be completed in as few as 24 months.*

What do you learn in radiology tech?

In your Radiologic Technologist program, you’ll learn the ins and outs of direct patient care, understand how to safely operate sophisticated diagnostic imaging equipment and develop a thorough understanding of patient anatomy. Additionally, you’ll spend time working in clinical settings where you can apply your knowledge to scenarios outside of the classroom.

How to become a radiologic technologist?

To do this, you’ll need to graduate from an approved Radiologic Technologist program and pass an exam to verify your expertise in the field.

What is the job of an X-ray tech?

The majority of your job will be performing diagnostic imaging examinations, which is just another way to say you will use advanced equipment to take pictures of patients that help medical professionals diagnose diseases or other conditions.

Do you need an X-ray tech?

The good news is that X-ray techs are needed in a wide variety of healthcare settings, so you should have options. Don’t forget to polish up your resume and practice your interviewing skills. With a little persistence, you’ll be well on your way to a career in diagnostic imaging.