Accredited Radiology Technician Schools Lincoln University PA 19352 Archives

How to Pick an X-Ray Technician College near Lincoln University Pennsylvania

Lincoln University PA x-ray tech internship program Best wishes on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Lincoln University PA in order to train to be a radiology technician. But now that you have chosen to enter the satisfying field of healthcare, just how do you tackle choosing the right school and program so that you will get the appropriate training to become a qualified practitioner? And because most states do mandate that x-ray technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you may need training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s essential that you investigate each of the schools you are considering so that you can compare each program. Most potential students start by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and usually gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into consideration, there are additional important qualifiers also. For instance, you should ask whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internship programs. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are reviewing are provided later in this post. But first, let’s discuss what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and training options that are offered.

X-Ray Technician Occupation Summary

There are several professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Irrespective of the name, each has the identical major job description, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists might also provide radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many opt to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, such as mammography. They may practice in Lincoln University PA hospitals, clinics, family 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 maintain their equipment plus frequently analyze its performance and safety. They are additionally required to keep in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Lincoln University PA health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

X-Ray Tech Degrees

x-ray machine in Lincoln University PA The standard requirement for attending an x-ray tech program is to have earned a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the option to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among technicians, usually takes 18 months to 2 years to complete based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as four years to finish and is more expansive in scope. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that are appropriate as well. Something to consider is that Lincoln University PA radiographer colleges have a clinical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It may often be satisfied by participating in an externship program which many schools sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any licensing or certification mandates in Pennsylvania or the state you will be working as applicable.

Radiographer Certification and Licensing

When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, based on the state where you will be practicing you may have to become licensed. The majority of states do mandate licensing, and their requirements vary so contact your state. At present, all states that do require licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but several provide other alternatives for testing as well. Several states also call for certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is optional. Having said that, many Lincoln University PA employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it may increase your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every two years, which may be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.

Online X-Ray Technician Classes

attending x-ray tech school online in Lincoln University 19352 As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree colleges. So even though you can still obtain your online degree, a substantial portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an externship off-campus. Clinical training is usually provided in regional hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online segment of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Lincoln University PA home. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually discover that the online style of education is far more convenient with their active schedules. Plus online schools are often cheaper than conventional options. In addition to lower tuition, costs for study materials and commuting can be lessened as well. But just make certain that the online school 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 ideal choice for you.

What to Ask Radiology Tech Colleges

As soon as you have decided on the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can initiate the process of searching for and evaluating Lincoln University PA x-ray tech colleges. You will also need to decide if you prefer to attend classes online or drive to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the school will be relevant. The price of tuition and secondary expenses will be a determining factor also. But along with location and cost, what more should you factor in when comparing schools? Well, you should find out if the schools are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you learn some of these essential details before you make your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you need to ask the programs you are assessing.

Are the X-Ray Technician Schools Accredited? Most radiology technician schools have acquired some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. However, it’s still imperative to make sure that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly respected accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous examination of their teachers and course materials. If the program is online it may also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a quality 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 Lincoln University PA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry level jobs.

Are Internships Provided? Inquire if the Pennsylvania xray tech programs you are interested in have partnerships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a great way to obtain practical experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to satisfy the practical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they can assist graduates and students establish professional connections in the Lincoln University PA medical community and assist with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the x-ray tech schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Lincoln University PA healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.

Where is the Program Located? For a number of students, the school they select will need to be within travelling distance of their Lincoln University PA home. Those who have opted to attend classes online obviously will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. Something to consider is that if you choose to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you may be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges typically charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges normally charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of person that likes to sit far in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will likely want a small class size. Smaller classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Lincoln University PA schools you are researching what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your final decision. This will also give you a chance to converse with some of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program as well.

Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the radiographer program you finally choose can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you choose to continue working while attending classes. If you need to schedule night or weekend classes in Lincoln University PA, verify that they are available. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, check if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would have to carry. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss due to illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Decide to Be a Radiologic Technologist?

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to consider questions you might be asked. One of the things that hiring managers often ask radiographer prospects is "What compelled you to pick radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not merely the private reasons you may have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but additionally what characteristics and talents you have that make you outstanding at your profession. You will likely be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, along with a significant number of typical interview questions, so you should ready some ideas about how you want to address them. Given that there are so many variables that go into selecting a career, you can respond to this fundamental question in a variety of ways. When formulating an answer, aim to include the reasons the work interests you along with the talents you possess that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the leading choice for the job. Don't attempt to memorize an answer, but jot down some concepts and talking points that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Reading through sample answers can help you to formulate your own thoughts, and inspire ideas of what to include to wow the recruiter.

Select the Best Radiology Tech Program near Lincoln University PA

Enrolling in the appropriate x-ray technician school is an important first step toward beginning a rewarding new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiologic technologist should be in good physical condition. Radiology techs often stand for the majority of the day and position and sometimes lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Prospects must also demonstrate a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to comply with the safety requirements developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having social skills is a must in order to have a good work environment and deliver the best available patient care. As we have addressed in this post, there are several questions that you need to ask each college you are looking at before making your final decision. This is similarly true whether you opt for an online school or travel to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can analyze and compare each program so you can narrow down your options before making your final choice. And with the proper education and your dedication to be successful, you can achieve your goal to practice as a radiographer in Lincoln University PA.

Some Background on Lincoln University Pennsylvania

Lincoln University (Pennsylvania)

Lincoln University (LU) is the United States' first degree-granting historically black university.[4] Founded as a private university in 1854, it has been a public institution since 1972. Its main campus is located on 422 acres near the town of Oxford in southern Chester County, Pennsylvania. The university has a second location in University City, Philadelphia. Lincoln University provides undergraduate and graduate coursework to approximately 2,000 students. The University is a member-school of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.

In his book, Education for Freedom: A History of Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, former LU president Dr. Horace Mann Bond noted that "This was the first institution founded anywhere in the world to provide a higher education in the arts and sciences for youth of African descent." While a majority of Lincoln University students are African Americans, the university has a long history of accepting students of other races and nationalities.[5] Women have received degrees since 1953,[5] and made up 60% of undergraduate enrollment in 2015.[6]

In 1854 Rev. John Miller Dickey, a Presbyterian minister, and his wife, Sarah Emlen Cresson, a Quaker, founded Ashmun Institute, later named Lincoln University. They named it after Jehudi Ashmun, a religious leader and social reformer. They founded the school for the education of African Americans, who had few opportunities for higher education.

John Miller Dickey was the first president of the college. He encouraged some of his first students: James Ralston Amos (1826–1864), his brother Thomas Henry Amos (1825–1869), and Armistead Hutchinson Miller (1829/30-1865), to support the establishment of Liberia as a colony for African Americans. (This was a project of the American Colonization Society.) Each of the men became ordained ministers.

In 1866, Ashmun Institute was renamed Lincoln University after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln the previous year.