Contents
How long does it take to become an x-ray technician? It depends on a few factors, including your educational path and whether you pursue certification.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
Becoming an X-ray technician requires completing a training program and passing a certification exam. The length of time it takes to complete the program and become certified varies depending on the type of program you choose and whether you attend full- or part-time.
Here’s an overview of what you need to do to become an X-ray technician:
Complete an accredited training program. Programs typically take two years to complete, but you can often find accelerated programs that can be completed in less time.
Pass the certification exam. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification in radiography, and passing this exam is required for licensure in most states.
How long does it take to become an x-ray technician?
The length of time it takes to become an x-ray technician varies depending on the route you take. If you complete a two-year associate’s degree program, you can become an x-ray technician in as little as two years. However, if you choose to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program, it will take you four years to become an x-ray technician.
Associate’s degree
An Associate’s degree in radiologic technology typically takes two years to complete, although some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as 18 months. During your studies, you’ll take classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, as well as courses specific to radiologic technology. You’ll also spend time completing clinical rotations in hospitals and other medical settings, where you’ll gain hands-on experience working with x-ray equipment and patients.
Bachelor’s degree
It takes about four years to become an x-ray technician if you have a bachelor’s degree.
Certification
There are two ways to become an x-ray technician: completing an accredited certification program or earning an Associate’s degree in radiography. Certification programs typically last 18 months to 2 years, while Associate’s degree programs take 2-4 years to complete. Most states require x-ray technicians to be licensed, and the requirements for licensure vary by state. Many employers prefer to hire x-ray technicians who are certified or have a degree.
What are the requirements to become an x-ray technician?
In order to become an x-ray technician, you will need to complete an accredited x-ray technician program The length of the program will vary, but you can expect to complete it within two years. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass a state exam in order to become licensed.
Education
Education requirements for x-ray technicians vary by state, but most states require certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT). The ARRT offers several routes to certification, but the most common is to complete an accredited radiography program and pass a certification exam.
Accredited radiography programs are typically two-year associate’s degree programs, although some schools offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs. X-ray technician programs include both classroom and clinical components, and students learn about topics such as human anatomy, medical ethics, and radiographic positioning.
After completing an accredited program, x-ray technicians must pass the ARRT certification exam to become licensed. The exam consists of a written portion and a practical portion. Once certified, x-ray technicians must complete continuing education credits every two years to maintain their license.
Certification
X-ray technicians, also called radiologic technicians, are medical professionals who use imaging equipment to produce diagnostic images. These technicians typically specialize in either X-ray machine operation or computed tomography (CT) scanning. To become an X-ray technician, one needs to complete an accredited education program and earn certification from a national organization, such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
What are the job duties of an x-ray technician?
An x-ray technician is responsible for operating X-ray and other diagnostic imaging equipment to produce images of the body. They work in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and physicians’ offices. They assist physicians indiagnosing medical conditions. X-ray technicians typically work full time, and some may work evenings or weekends.
Job duties
An x-ray technician, also called a radiographer, is a healthcare professional who uses imaging technology to produce images of the body that are used by physicians to diagnose and treat illness and injury.
X-ray technicians typically have an associate’s degree in radiography or a related field, although some technicians may have a bachelor’s degree. Training generally takes two to four years, depending on the level of education.
After completing their educational program, x-ray technicians must obtain a state license in order to practice. Some states require certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians (ARRT). To maintain their license, x-ray technicians must complete continuing education credits.
The job duties of an x-ray technician vary depending on their place of employment but may include taking X-rays and CT scans, positions patients for X-rays, explains procedures to patients, monitors patients during procedures, and operate X-ray equipment. X-ray technicians may also be responsible for maintaining patient records and scheduling appointments.
What is the job outlook for x-ray technicians?
X-ray technicians are in high demand due to the many uses of x-ray machines in medical settings. An x-ray technician can expect to make a good salary and have job security. The average x-ray technician makes about $60,000 per year.
Job outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of diagnostic medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including vascular technologists, will grow 15% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Cardiovascular sonographers will be needed to provide diagnostic imaging for patients with heart conditions. The aging population is expected to have increasingly complex medical needs, resulting in demand for diagnostic medical sonography services.
Some positions may require certification in addition to completing an accredited educational program.
