How to Become a Radiology Technician
The medical field is constantly growing and radiology technicians are in demand. As a radiology technician, you will work with radiographic machinery to obtain medical images through x-ray, CT scan or MRI. A career as a radiology technician can be very rewarding, and radiology technicians earn a decent salary.
- While in high school, take as many science courses as possible. An understanding of biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology is very helpful during radiology technician school.
- Choose a degree program. You can go to school to get a certificate as a radiology technician or you can obtain a two year Associate's degree of four year Bachelor's of Science degree. If you have a Bachelor's degree, you will have the best chance of landing one of the better radiology technician jobs.
- Pick your school. Becoming a radiology technician has become a very popular career choice for many people, and there are now many schools that offer certificates and degrees for radiology technician. Look for a school that combine classroom teaching with hands on training.
- After graduating, take the ARRT exam. This exam is given by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists, and you will receive certification after passing the exam. Many states also require this exam when you apply to be licensed.
- Following completion of the ARRT exam, you have the training and certification to pursue employment as a radiology technician. However, you need to take continuing education classes to stay current with new technological advancements in medical imaging as well as it being a requirement for your license.