How Long Does It Take to Become a Radiology Technician?

If you’re interested in becoming a radiology technician, you may be wondering how long it will take to complete the necessary training. In this blog post, we’ll give you an overview of the steps you’ll need to take to become a radiology technician, as well as how long each step might take.

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Introduction

Radiologic technologists (RTs) are health care professionals who perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays, on patients. Radiologic technology programs typically take two to four years to complete, and all states require RTs to be licensed.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Radiology Technician?

Radiology technicians must complete an accredited educational program and earn a certificate or associate’s degree. Upon completion of an accredited program, students must then pass an examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Once these steps have been completed, radiologic technologists are eligible to become licensed in their state.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Radiology Technician?

Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers, perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays, on patients. In order to become a radiologic technologist, one must complete an accredited educational program and obtain a license in the state in which they plan to work. The length of time it takes to become a radiologic technologist can vary depending on the educational path taken.

For those who choose to attend a traditional two-year radiology program, the process of becoming a radiologic technologist can take anywhere from two to four years. The first two years are spent completing prerequisite coursework followed by two years of professional coursework. Upon completion of an accredited program, graduates must then sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam. Once the ARRT certifies an individual, they may then apply for state licensure. The licensure process can vary by state but typically includes passing an exam and completing a criminal background check.

There are alsoradiography programs that can be completed in as little as 18 months. These programs generally require full-time attendance and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing an accredited accelerated program, graduates must still obtain ARRT certification and state licensure before they can begin working as radiologic technologists.

Individuals with prior healthcare experience may be eligible for special programs that allow them to complete their radiology training in as little as 12 months. These programs are typically only available to licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, and respiratory therapists who have completed specific coursework in anatomy and physiology and have at least one year of full-time healthcare experience.

The Educational Requirements for Becoming a Radiology Technician

There are several steps you must take in order to become a radiology tech First, you must attend an accredited school and earn an Associate’s Degree in Radiology or a related field. The program you choose must be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiology Technology (JRCERT). There are currently over 200 accredited programs in the united states Once you have completed your degree, you will then need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam in order to earn your certification. After you have earned your certification, you will need to maintain it by earning continuing education credits and meeting other requirements set forth by the ARRT.

The Certification and Licensure Requirements for Becoming a Radiology Technician

To become a radiology technician, you must earn a certificate or an associate’s degree in radiography from an accredited program and pass a certification exam. Once you are certified, you must apply for a state license. The requirements for certification and licensure vary from state to state.

In most states, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent to be eligible for certification. Some states also require that you complete an accredited radiography program and pass a criminal background check. Once you have met all of the eligibility requirements, you can register for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination.

The ARRT certification examination is a computer-based exam that consists of 200 multiple-choice questions about radiographic physics, imaging, patient care, and safety. To pass the exam, you must achieve a score of 75% or higher. Once you have passed the exam, you will be certified as a Registered Radiologic Technician (RRT).

After becoming certified as an RRT, you must apply for state licensure in order to practice radiography. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but most states require that you be at least 18 years old and have graduated from an accredited radiography program. In some states, you may also be required to pass the ARRT certification exam or another state-specific examination.

The job outlook for Radiology Technicians

The job outlook for radiology technicians is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of diagnostic medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including vascular technologists, will grow by 28% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

A variety of factors are expected to contribute to this demand, including an aging population that is more likely to need diagnostic imaging procedures and an increase in the number of diagnostic procedures performed each year. There also will be a need for trained technicians to maintain and operate sophisticated equipment as hospitals increasingly use new technology, such as 3D imaging.

Conclusion

In order to become a radiology technician, you will need to complete an accredited radiology program. These programs typically take two years to complete, although some accelerated programs may be available. Once you have completed your radiology program, you will be eligible to take the licensure examination in your state.