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Best Online Degrees in: Radiology Technician

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Explore a Bachelor's Degree in Radiology Technician

A bachelor's degree in radiology technology will prepare students for careers as radiologic technologists and technicians who perform diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays, on patients. Students in this field may specialize in sonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, computed tomography (CT), and other areas. In the work place, they will work closely with radiologists and other physicians in surgery, trauma, pediatrics, and other specialties. Their responsibilities will include adjusting and maintaining imaging equipment; preparing patients for X-rays and other procedures; operating computerized equipment to take radiographic images; and keeping detailed patient records. Students will generally have to complete 120-150 credit hours; however, specifications will vary by program.

Class Curriculum

The course work of a radiology technician program includes classes in anatomy, biology, chemistry, pathology, patient care, physics, and radiation physics and protection. Standard programs also include classes in the following:

  • Medical Terminology. This course will cover key terms that are used by health care practitioners and professionals. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of medical terminology, including body systems, major pathological conditions, disorders, treatments, procedures, and medications.
  • Radiographic Pathology. This class will teach students how to determine basic radiographic manifestations of pathological conditions. Students will learn how to locate the radiographic appearance of pathologies and classify trauma.
  • Radiation Protection. This course covers the principles and practices of radiation safety. Topics include the calculation of doses absorbed from procedures; personnel monitoring; the handling and disposal of radioactive materials; and a review of radiation regulations.

Standard radiology technician programs include both classroom training and clinical training. Evaluation methods include clinical practice and written examinations.

Building a Career

Radiologic technologists work in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, physicians' offices, medical and diagnostic laboratories, and outpatient care centers; some are even employed by the federal government. Most states require radiologic technologists to become licensed or certified in order to work, but requirements vary by state. In general, they must graduate from an accredited program and pass a certification exam.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual wage of radiologic technologists and technicians was $56,760. However, individuals should note that earnings can vary based on the level of education attained and experience.

The Best Online Schools for Radiology Technology

Value
The award for best online radiology technician bachelor's degree for value goes to Oregon Institute of Technology for have a good return on investment (ROI). According to PayScale.com, Oregon Institute of Technology has an out-of-state ROI of 7.3% without financial aid and 7.7% with financial aid. For in-state students, the ROI increases to 8.7% without financial aid and 9.6% with financial aid. In addition, the Institute is No. 3 on U.S. News & World Report‘s list of the top public schools in the West.

Flexibility
Weber State University wins the award for the best online radiology technician bachelor's degree for flexibility. By providing classes that students can work into their schedules, Weber State University keeps curricula flexible and allows students to balance their career and home responsibilities. It also received a B-level ranking on College Prowler for campus strictness.

Career Support
Weber State University has multiple career services that exist to help students transition from college life into the working world. By providing resume guides, job search assistance, mock interviews, and career events, Weber State University ensures that its students get the career preparation they need. It is therefore our winner of the best online radiology technician bachelor's degree for career support.

Financial Support
Saint Joseph's College of Maine awards 100% of its first-time, full-time student some kind of financial aid, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. In addition, 60% of all undergrads receive a grant, scholarship, or both. If you are hoping to attend a school dedicated to providing financial assistance to its students, Saint Joseph's College of Maine — our winner of best financial support — is a solid choice for undergraduate education.

Technology Support
The University of Louisiana at Monroe provides multiple resources for technology assistance on its website. Students can use the help desk to create a help ticket for their technological problems, or they can call for assistance during business hours. The website also provides quick help links and ordering suggestions for students who are planning on buying computers. In addition, the University of Louisiana at Monroe also has a smartphone app, according to U.S. News & World Report. The University of Louisiana at Monroe is therefore our winner for best online radiology technician bachelor's degree for technology support.

Student Engagement
Weber State University wins the award for the best radiology technician bachelor's degree for student engagement. According to U.S. News & World Report, faculty members track student sign-ins to insure that students are active participants in their classes. In addition, professor availability also increases student engagement, as students that know they can reach out to their professors are more likely to take an active role in their education than those who feel as though they cannot contact their professors. At Weber State University, instructors respond to emails within 24 hours.

Disability Support
Weber State University has a website that explains the services available for students with disabilities. On the website, parents, students, and faculty can find information regarding policies and procedures, and can access the forms that they need. The website also provides student resources and contact information in the event that an individual has questions or concerns. Weber State University is therefore our winner for best disability support.

Library and Research Support
Weber State University has a comprehensive library website that provides quick and easy access to reserves and databases. In addition, the library keeps current library and database news available and also provides services specifically for distance learners. Through ask-a-librarian, students can chat with librarians for help with research and library services, and students also have the option of contacting the library staff over the phone. Due to the extensive resources and the readily available help that Weber State University's library provides, it is our winner for best library and research support.

Learning Support
Weber State University wins the award for best learning support. The university has a website that provides specific resources for online students, including e-tutoring, writing and math centers, tutorials, and other support services. Students also have access to advisors, who can help them get learning support that is specifically tailored to their needs.

Faculty Credentials
The University of Louisiana at Monroe is ranked No. 33 on U.S. News & World Report‘s list of best online schools for faculty credentials and training. At the University of Louisiana at Monroe, 90% of online instructors have two or more years of online teaching experience. In addition, the university pays for instructors to receive online teaching training. Due to its dedication to having a trained and informed faculty body, the University of Louisiana at Monroe is our winner of the best online radiology technician bachelor's degree for faculty credentials.

Faculty Accessibility
Weber State University wins the award for best faculty accessibility, as it ensures that faculty members respond to student emails within 24 hours, according to U.S. News & World Report. In addition, faculty members monitor student sign-ins, to ensure that students are actively involved in their course work. Weber State also has a student-to-teacher ratio of 23-to-1, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Small class sizes give professors the opportunity to focus on students' individual needs.

Alumni Engagement
The University of New Mexico wins the award for the best online radiology technician bachelor's degree for alumni engagement. The university has a website specifically geared toward its alumni population, where students can find networking opportunities, publications, and alumni events. University graduates can also interact on the University of New Mexico alumni Facebook and Flickr pages.

Prior Learning Options
Siena Heights University accepts multiple kinds of prior learning credits, and is therefore our winner of the best online radiology bachelor's degree for prior learning options. Its transfer policy accepts transfer credits, credit from CLEP exams, military training, and outside learning experiences and training.

New Online Student Orientation
With multiple resources specifically geared toward new distance learners, Weber State University is the winner of the award for best new online student orientation. New online students have access to support pages, including tutorials to help them navigate the online class portals. Students can also watch a demonstration of an example online class. In addition, online students can find information regarding registering for classes, withdrawing from classes, and applying for financial aid, all of which Weber State University provides on its website.