2021-2022 College Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2021-2022 College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computed Tomography Certificate


Computed Tomography (CT) Advanced Certificate is a one-semester program that prepares radiographers to perform CT procedures in hospitals and imaging centers.

CT is an imaging modality that combines the use of x-rays and computer technology. Cross-sectional images of the body are produced by an x-ray beam and array of detectors that encircle the patient. These images can be reconstructed in multiple planes to display anatomical structures not otherwise visible on conventional radiographs. The curriculum covers all subjects identified in the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) content specifications for examination in Computed Tomography (CT).

Computed Tomography Program Goals

  • To prepare graduates to pass the ARRT post-primary examination in computed tomography by providing didactic instruction in each content area identified in the ARRT Content Specifications.
  • To provide students with an opportunity to participate in a variety of CT procedures that will assist them in meeting the clinical experience requirements defined by ARRT.
  • To promote professionalism and life-long learning among program graduates.

Working Conditions

Computed Tomography Technologists may work in a variety of health care facilities, although most are employed in hospitals or imaging centers. Technologists typically work 40-hour weeks that may include evening, weekend or “on-call” hours dependent upon their employment setting. Please refer to the Essential Skills & Abilities of MRI technologist to determine if you are able to meet these functions with or without reasonable accommodations.

Employment

As the cost of equipment declines and smaller units become available, CT and other radiologic procedures are increasingly being used in physicians’ offices and walk-in clinics, which increases the demand for technologists to operate the machinery. With life expectancy increasing, the demands of an aging population increases the need for health care providers. It is projected that employment of Radiologic and CT technologists will increase by about 7% from 2019-2029, faster than average for all occupations. U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Licensure

Graduates are eligible to apply to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists A.R.R.T Post Primary Examination for Computed Tomography. This certification is nationally recognized and enables the student to pursue employment throughout the United States.

Admission Requirements: Selective

The Computed Tomography (CT) Program has limited enrollment and a selection process for admission into the program. Students must apply and be formally accepted into the program prior to enrolling in any Computed Tomography courses. Students can apply online to the Computed Tomography (CT) Program February 15 - June 15. Application deadline date is June 15 for Fall enrollment. We notify applicants approximately two weeks after the application deadline date whether or not they have been accepted into the program.

  1. If you have never attended Carl Sandburg College, complete a general application for admission to the College - http://sandburg.edu/Admissions/Steps-to-Enroll/index.html
  2. Submit official transcripts from high school and all post-secondary educational institutions.
  3. Graduate from an A. R. R. T approved radiography program with a 2.5 or higher cumulative G.P.A. on a 4.0 scale.
  4. Provide evidence of active registration with the A.R.R.T or registry eligible status.
  5. Complete the online application for the Computed Tomography program.
  6. Students admitted must attend the program orientation session.

Program admission is competitive and fulfillment of the basic requirements does not guarantee admission. Class size is limited and is determined by the number of available clinical sites within each community-college district. Participating community college districts (in addition to Carl Sandburg College) include: Black Hawk, Heartland, Illinois Central, Illinois Valley, John Wood, Lincoln Land, Parkland, Richland, Sauk Valley, Scott (IA), Southeastern (IA), and Spoon River.

RDT 255  practicum requires immunizations with titers, TB skin test, current Healthcare Provider CPR certification, drug screen, background check and physical. Students are responsible for all fees incurred. Please refer to the Computed Tomography Program Cost Sheet. Please note that findings on the criminal background check and drug screen may void the conditional admission and prevent entrance to the program. Findings on the physical examination and drug screen may prevent placement at the clinical sites. Technologists employed in CT may seek enrollment in the online classroom-only portions of the program, if desired.

Department of Health Professions

2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd.
Galesburg, IL 61401
Phone: 309.341.5299

For Additional Information Contact:

The Welcome Center
Phone: 309.345.3500
welcomecenter@sandburg.edu

For Graduation Requirements:

See the graduation policies and procedures page for details .

Total Program Requirement: 16


NOTE: In order to graduate, each student must complete all required courses with a grade of “C” or better. RDT 262 , RDT 250  and RDT 252  are online courses.

Faculty


Jackie Whipple, RT(R)
Assistant Professor, Radiologic Technology
Coordinator, Diagnostic Imaging

Derek Schreiner
Dean, Department of Health Professions