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Job Description
Would you like to operate cutting-edge medical technology?
Have you always been fascinated by x-rays, MRIs, and
other imaging technologies? If so, being an X-ray Technician
could be your ideal career. Also known as Radiologic
Technicians or Radiographers, X-ray technicians are
responsible for conducting imaging procedures specified
by a patient’s physician. They prepare patients
for filming and operate x-ray imaging machinery. Precision
is essential, as the X-ray Technician must position
the radiologic equipment at the correct range and angle
to obtain the best picture for purposes of diagnosis.
This process requires extensive knowledge of both anatomy
and imaging technology. Some Radiologic Technicians
are trained to utilize even more advanced equipment
such as MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CTs (Computerized
Tomography), and others may perform complex tests like
flouroscopies.
Work Environment
X-ray Technicians typically work in a radiology room
within a medical clinic or hospital. Some physical demands
are necessary since patients may be disabled and need
to help positioning themselves for tests. Although some
people may worry about radiation exposure, but the use
of shielding and diagnostic technologies, along with
stringent recording and regulation of cumulative exposure,
have all but resolved this issue. Generally, X-ray techs
work 40 hour weeks, though they may be on-call for emergencies
at other times.
Education and Training Requirements
Programs in Radiologic Technology may last from 1 to
4 years. Most 1 year programs are accelerated certifications
for Registered Nurses or other medical professional
who wish to change careers. The most common career path
is to attend a 2-year program in order to earn an Associates
Degree, awarded by either university or career-oriented
college. An Associates Degree is sufficient for securing
a position as an X-ray Technician, while a Bachelors
Degree in the field may open doors to administrative
or supervisory work. Most programs are accredited by
the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiographic
Technology, and licensing is required in 38 states at
the present time.
Salary Range
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the middle
50% of Radiographic Technicians was $32,000 to $46,500
in 2002. The median annual earnings were $40,000, and
the top 10% made more than $55,400.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment
of X-ray Technicians will “grow faster than the
average for all occupations through 2012.” They
also note that employers have been reporting difficulty
in filling their openings for Radiologic Technicians,
which indicates that opportunities for securing a position
in the field are highly favorable. |
Online Schools
Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences - Online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences, Online RN-to-BS in Nursing
Arizona Schools
The Bryman School* (Phoenix) - Practical Technologist in Radiology
California Schools
Maric College* (Vista - North County, North Hollywood) - X-Ray Technician/Back Office Medical Assistant
Florida Schools
Central Florida Institute* (Orlando, Palm Harbor) - Medical Assistant/Basic X-ray
High-Tech Institute (Orlando) - X-ray Technician (Ltd. Scope)
Keiser University (Daytona Beach) - Radiology
Keiser University (Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Kendall, Lakeland, Melbourne, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee, West Palm Beach) - Radiologic Technology
MedVance Institute (Lauderdale Lakes, Miami, Palm Springs) - Radiologic Technology
Kentucky Schools
Spencerian College (Lexington) - Limited Medical Radiography, Radiologic Technology
Louisiana Schools
MedVance (Baton Rouge) - Radiologic Technology
Missouri Schools
Sanford-Brown College (Fenton) - Associate in Radiography
High-Tech Institute (St. Louis Park) - X-ray Technician (Ltd. Scope)
Oregon Schools
Health Career Institute (Wilsonville) - Medical Assisting with Limited X-Ray
Pennsylvania Schools
Western School of Health and Business (Pittsburgh) - Associate - Radiographer
Tennessee Schools
High-Tech Institute (Nashville, Memphis) - X-ray Technician (Ltd. Scope)
MedVance (Cookeville, Nashville) - Radiologic Technology
Texas Schools
Academy of Healtcare Professions (Austin, Houston, San Antonio) - Limited Medical Radiological Technologist
Career Centers of Texas (Fort Worth) - Radiologic Technology
MedVance (Houston) - Radiologic Technology
Virginia Schools
Medical Careers Institute (Newport News) - Medical Radiography
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