Radiologic Technology program is a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree that prepares students to perform diagnostic x-ray examinations for patients in hospitals, imaging centers, physicians’ offices, and other health-related institutions. The Radiologic Technologist (radiographer) is a member of the health care team who works directly with the patient and the physician who is responsible for accurately positioning patients, manipulating x-ray equipment, and ensuring that a high quality diagnostic image is produced.
Radiologic Technologists use x-ray equipment to create images of organs, bones, and blood vessels of the body. An x-ray image, or radiograph, is produced when a small amount of radiation passes through a body part and is recorded on film or stored electronically on a computer. They are educated in anatomy, patient positioning, radiographic techniques, equipment protocols, radiation safety, radiation protection, and basic patient care.
Radiologic Technology Program Goals
- To prepare graduates to pass the ARRT certifying examination in radiography by providing thorough instruction in each content area identified in the ASRT Curriculum Guide.
- To provide a sufficient quantity and variety of clinical and laboratory experiences to allow graduate competency in those procedures identified as being required of an entry-level radiographer.
- To enhance students’ interpersonal skills and understanding of human behavior by requiring a general education component that includes satisfactory completion of coursework in communication and the social sciences.
- To develop professionalism and promote life-long learning by supporting student participation in professional society activities at the local and state levels and assisting graduates who choose to continue their education in additional imaging modalities.
- To assist students in meeting the didactic and clinical requirements of the curriculum by offering academic support and/or counseling services as needed.
- To assist graduates in their search for employment by offering the services of the College’s Job Placement Office.
Working Conditions
Radiologic Technologists may work in a variety of health care facilities, although most are employed in hospitals or major medical centers. Technologists typically work 40-hour weeks that may include evening, weekend, or “on-call” hours dependent upon their employment setting. The Radiologic Technologist provides direct patient care and must be able to obtain the knowledge (cognitive function), skills (psychomotor function), and demonstrate professionalism (affective function). Physical stamina is important in diagnostic imaging because technologists are on their feet for long periods of time and may be required to lift or turn disabled patients. Please refer to the Essential Skills & Abilities of a Radiologic Technologist to determine if you are able to meet these functions with or without reasonable accommodations.
Employment
With the life expectancy increasing, the demands of an aging population increases the need for health care providers. Employment of Radiologic Technologists is expected to increase by about 7% from 2019-2029, faster than the 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 examination for certification in Radiography-RT(R). This certification is nationally recognized and enables the student to pursue employment throughout the United States.
Admission to the Program: Selective
The Radiologic Technology 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 Radiologic Technology courses. Applicants need to refer to the Eligibility & Admission Requirements for this program to determine eligibility criteria and selection process. Students can apply online to the Radiologic Technology program October 1 - February 1. Online application deadline date is February 1 for Summer enrollment. We notify applicants approximately two weeks after the application deadline date whether or not they have been accepted into the program. Applicants accepted into the Radiologic Technology program 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 and Spoon River. Applicants accepted into the program must attend the program orientation session.
Students accepted will be required to possess Healthcare Provider CPR certification throughout the program, show proof of immunizations and required titers, TB test, physical examination, criminal background check, and drug screen. Students are responsible for all fees incurred, in addition to tuition. Please refer to the Radiologic Technology Program Cost Sheet. Please note findings on the criminal background check and drug screen may void conditional admission and prevent entrance to the program. Findings on the physical examination and drug screen may prevent placement at the clinical sites.
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:
For the graduate requirements see the graduation policies and procedures page for details.
Note: Students must apply for admission to this program. Please click here to view the program’s page for admission requirements including coursework and prerequisites prior to applying.