Requirements for an X-Ray Tech Degree

X-Ray technicians work in a hospital setting and operate X-Ray machines that take pictures of the bones inside the body. Like many careers in the medical field, it is becoming a popular and fast-growing job. Before you can become an X-Ray tech, you must meet the minimum education requirements.

Accreditation

Before registering for classes at a college, make sure it has the proper accreditation. The school should be accredited by Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Employers will only hire X-Ray technicians who have graduated from an accredited university, college or institution.

Prerequisites

Before you can be accepted into an X-Ray technician training program or course, you must complete the proper prerequisite classes. Each school requires different prerequisites, but most will include math, English and science classes that can be taken at your local high school or community college.

Course Material

Each state has different course material requirements. The college or training program you attend can help you choose the right courses and can keep you on track to graduating. You can also choose to take courses that will help you gain knowledge of special types of X-Ray techniques and procedures. These courses vary by school and may not be offered by some colleges.

Internship

Once you have completed your course material and graduated with your degree or certificate as an X-Ray technician, you will be required to complete an internship. The internship will allow you to use the knowledge you have learned, in a real setting, under the observation of other, more experienced X-Ray technicians. Many internships turn into full time jobs and lasting positions for qualified technicians.

Continued Education

Even after graduating and finding a job as an X-Ray technician, you will still be required to continue your education. This may mean attending classes several times a year at local community college or the hospital or doctor's office where you work. These continued education classes will help keep you up-to-date on the new procedure and machines that are used in the field and the type of business practices and skills you'll need. Each state will have different guidelines for the amount of continued education that is required.