How Long Does It Take To Become a X-Ray Technician?

Contents

Introduction
How Long Does It Take To Become a X-Ray Technician?
The Short Answer
The Long Answer
Conclusion

It takes about two years to become an X-ray technician This includes completing an accredited X-ray program and passing a state-administered exam.

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Introduction

The time it takes to become an X-ray technician depends on the level of education you pursue. While most states require only a certificate or Associate’s degree to work in this field, some employers may prefer or require candidates to have a Bachelor’s degree.

If you attend a full-time X-ray technician program you can typically complete your certificate or degree in about two years. However, if you decide to earn a Bachelor’s degree, you will need to complete an additional two years of coursework.

Additionally, most states require X-ray technicians to be licensed or certified. To become licensed, you will need to pass an exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The ARRT offers certification exams in several different X-ray specialties, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

How Long Does It Take To Become a X-Ray Technician?

It takes around two years to become a x-ray technician. This includes completing an accredited x-ray technician program and passing a state-level exam. Generally, you will need to have completed a high school diploma or equivalent before enrolling in an accredited program.

The Short Answer

The short answer is that it takes about two years to complete an accredited x-ray technician program. However, becoming credentialed and finding a job may take longer. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting career.

X-ray technicians, also called radiographers, are medical professionals who use x-ray machines and computed tomography (CT) scanners to create images of patients’ internal organs and tissues. These images are used by physicians to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries.

Radiographers must complete an accredited education program in order to be eligible for certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). While there are many certificate and associate degree programs available, most employers prefer applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree program. These programs typically take four years to complete.

After completing an accredited education program, radiographers must pass a certification exam administered by the ARRT in order to become credentialed. Once credentialed, radiographers can begin applying for jobs. Employment opportunities for radiographers are expected to be good, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2019-2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The Long Answer

The average length of time it takes to complete an accredited X-ray tech program is about two years. If you are attending school full-time, you can complete the program in as little as 18 months. Some schools offer X-ray technician programs that can be completed in as little as 12 months, but these are typically only available to individuals who already have an associate’s degree or higher in a related field.

If you are attending school part-time, it will take longer to complete the program. The exact amount of time will depend on the number of credits you take each semester and your school’s requirements. Most students who attend school part-time can complete an accredited X-ray tech program in about three years.

Once you have completed an accredited X-ray tech program, you will need to obtain a state license before you can begin working as a X-ray technician. Each state has different requirements for licensure, but most states require X-ray technicians to pass a national exam and a state exam. Once you have passed the exams and met all of the requirements for licensure, you will be able to begin working as a X-ray technician.