Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Funkstown MD 21734 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Find a Radiologic Technician College near Funkstown Maryland

Funkstown MD x-ray tech internship program Congratulations on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Funkstown MD so you can learn to be a radiologic technician. But now that you have chosen to enter the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you go about picking the right college and program so that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a qualified practitioner? And because the majority of states do require that x-ray technicians become licensed, depending on where you subsequently work you may need training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s essential that you investigate each of the schools you are considering so that you can evaluate each program. Most students start by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and usually settle on the lowest cost. But while expense and location should be taken into consideration, there are additional critical qualifiers also. For instance, you should ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you must ask the colleges you are reviewing are presented later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and training choices that are offered.

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Radiology Tech Occupation Summary

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Irrespective of the name, each has the same fundamental job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many choose to practice as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They may work in Funkstown MD hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech might utilize include:

Traditional and specialized X-Rays
Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Sonography or ultrasound
Fluoroscopy

Radiographers have to care for their equipment and regularly evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally required to keep detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Funkstown MD medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Funkstown MD The standard prerequisite for enrolling in an x-ray tech school is to have received a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist pupils have the opportunity to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, usually requires 18 months to two years to finish based upon the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to 4 years to finish and is more expansive in scope. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be appropriate as well. Something to bear in mind is that Funkstown MD radiographer programs have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can frequently be fulfilled by participating in an internship or externship program which a large number of colleges sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their region. After you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Maryland or the state you will be working as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing

After you have graduated from an Radiologist school, depending on the state where you will be working you may have to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their prerequisites differ so contact your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensing will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but a number provide additional options for testing also. Some states also require certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. Having said that, many Funkstown MD employers favor hiring radiology techs that have earned certification so it may enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also requires re-certification every other year, which can be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.

Online Radiology Technologist Schools

attending x-ray tech school online in Funkstown 21734 As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree colleges. So while you can still earn your online degree, a substantial portion of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Practical training is usually provided in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online section of the training may be attended in the comfort of your Funkstown MD residence. Students who continue working while earning their degree often find that the online style of education is far more practical with their active schedules. Plus online programs are often cheaper than traditional alternatives. Along with reduced tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials can be decreased also. But just make certain that the online program you choose is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then an online degree may be the right option for you.

What to Ask Radiologic Tech Schools

Once you have selected the type of degree that you want to earn, you can start the process of looking for and assessing Funkstown MD x-ray tech colleges. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend online classes or drive to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the college will be critical. The cost of tuition and secondary expenses will be a material variable also. But along with cost and location, what more should you factor in when evaluating colleges? Well, you should ask if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you uncover some of these crucial details prior to making your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you need to ask the schools you are assessing.

Are the Radiology Technician Colleges Accredited? The majority of xray technician colleges have earned some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still important to verify that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a detailed review of their instructors and educational materials. If the school is online it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also assist in obtaining financial aid and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Funkstown MD health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Find out if the Maryland xray technician colleges you are assessing have associations with regional clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a great way to receive practical training in a clinical environment, they are also a way to satisfy the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may assist students and graduates form professional relationships in the Funkstown MD medical community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the x-ray tech programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Funkstown MD healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.

Where is the School Located? For a number of students, the school they decide on will have to be within driving distance of their Funkstown MD residence. Individuals who have opted to attend online classes obviously will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of concern. One thing to bear in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a college that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges frequently charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the kind of student that likes to sit way in the back of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will likely want a smaller class size. Smaller classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Funkstown MD colleges you are looking at what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you an opportunity to converse with several of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray tech program also.

Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must verify that the x-ray tech school you ultimately select can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly important if you opt to continue working while attending school. If you need to schedule night or weekend classes in Funkstown MD, confirm that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would have to enroll in. Also, find out what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss because of illness, work or family emergencies.

Why Did You Desire to Become an Xray Technician?

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's helpful to review questions you may be asked. One of the things that recruiters often ask radiographer applicants is "What made you choose radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to uncover is not merely the private reasons you may have for becoming a radiology technician, but also what characteristics and abilities you possess that make you exceptional at your profession. You will probably be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, along with a significant number of standard interview questions, so you must prepare several approaches about how you would like to respond to them. Given that there are numerous variables that go into choosing a career, you can address this primary question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work interests you along with the talents you have that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the best choice for the job. Don't try to memorize a response, but write down several ideas and topics that pertain to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample answers can help you to prepare your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the recruiter.

Choose the Right X-Ray Tech School near Funkstown MD

Choosing the right x-ray technician degree program is a crucial first step toward launching a gratifying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist should be in good physical shape. Radiology techs regularly stand for the majority of the workday and move and sometimes lift the patient to get the correct image. Candidates must also show an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to observe the safety requirements developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Possessing interpersonal skills is a must in order to have a pleasant work environment and furnish the best possible patient care. As we have discussed in this article, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each college you are assessing prior to making your final decision. This is equally true whether you participate in an online school or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can evaluate and compare each school so you can focus your choices and make your final choice. And with the proper training and your dedication to be successful, you can realize your goal to work as a radiologic technologist in Funkstown MD.

Some Background on Funkstown Maryland

Funkstown, Maryland

Funkstown is a town in Washington County, Maryland, United States. The population was 904 at the 2010 census.

Originally 88 acres (360,000 m2) were sold to Henry Funk by Frederick Calvert, 6th Baron Baltimore in 1754 and settled as Jerusalem.[5][6]

The Civil War Battle of Funkstown took place July 10, 1863, during the Gettysburg Campaign as Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia retreated toward Virginia in the week following the Battle of Gettysburg. Union forces of the Army of the Potomac attacked the rear guard of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia during its retreat from Pennsylvania following the Battle of Gettysburg.

A strong Confederate presence at Funkstown threatened any Union advance against Gen. Robert E. Lee’s position near Williamsport and the Potomac River as he retreated to Virginia after the Battle of Gettysburg. Maj. Gen. J.E.B. Stuart’s cavalry, posted at Funkstown, posed a serious risk to the Federal right and rear if the Union army lunged west from Boonsboro. Stuart, meanwhile, determined to wage a spirited defense to ensure Lee time to complete fortifications protecting his army and his avenue of retreat.

As Brig. Gen. John Buford’s Federal cavalry division cautiously approached Funkstown via the National Road on Friday morning July 10, 1863, it encountered Stuart’s crescent-shaped, three-mile-long battle line. It was Stuart’s first defensive battle since reentering Maryland. The high ground constituted Stuart’s extreme right, held by Preston Chew’s horse artillery. A nearby stone barn and barnyard wall proved a superb defensive position for the 34th Virginia Battalion’s dismounted cavalry. Col. Thomas C. Devin’s dismounted Union cavalry brigade attacked about 8:00 a.m. By mid-afternoon, with Buford’s cavalrymen running low on ammunition and gaining little ground, Col. Lewis A. Grant’s First Vermont Brigade of infantry arrived and jabbed at the Confederate center less than one mile away. Unbeknownst to the Vermonters, Gen. George T. Anderson’s Confederate brigade now faced them, the first time opposing infantry had clashed since the Battle of Gettysburg.