Radiologic technologists or radiographers are the medical personnel who perform diagnostic imaging examinations. They work closely with radiologists, the physicians who interpret medical images to either diagnose or rule out disease or injury. Knowledge of human anatomy is essential in correctly positioning a patient to obtain accurate radiographic images.
Radiographers are educated in anatomy, patient positioning, examinations techniques, equipment protocols, radiation safety, radiation protection and basic patient care. Continuous standing, equipment manipulation, lifting of non-ambulatory patients, and effective communication skills are required to work proficiently, often in an emergency situation.
Program
The Radiologic Technology Program provides students the opportunity to earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Radiologic Technology and are eligible to take the national certification exam offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Certification of a national credential exam through the A.R.R.T. is required to practice as a radiologic technologist.
A minimum of sixty-two (62) credits are required to receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Radiologic Technology. The program consists of 22 months of combined academic and clinical education. The curriculum is based on five (5) semesters including one (1) summer session of full-time study.
General Education courses may be taken prior to admittance to the program. Students must be admitted into the radiologic technology program to take program courses.
Upon successful completion of the Radiologic Technology program, the graduate will be able to
- Perform tasks and apply skills to function as an entry-level radiographer
- Demonstrate abilities in communication, critical thinking, and problem solving necessary for professional practice
- Develop and apply professional attitudes, behaviors, and ethics.
Mission, Goals, and Student Learning Outcomes
The Mission of the Radiologic Technology Program is to prepare students in the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to become competent, entry-level radiographers who provide quality service and care to the community.
Goal 1: Students will be clinically competent.
- Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will apply positioning skills.
- Students will demonstrate radiation protection.
Goal 2: Students will communicate effectively.
- Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate effective communication skills.
- Students will demonstrate effective communication skills with co-workers and patients.
Goal 3: Students will demonstrate effective critical thinking skills.
- Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will adapt standard procedures for non-routine patients.
- Students will critique images to determine diagnostic quality.
Goal 4: Students will model professionalism in the health care community.
- Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate professional work ethics.
Students will demonstrate life-long learning as radiographer