Tag Archives: How to Become a Radiologic Technologist Waterbury CT 06701

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Waterbury CT 06701

How to Pick an Xray Tech Program near Waterbury Connecticut

Waterbury CT x-ray tech internship programCongratulations regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Waterbury CT so you can learn to be a radiology technician. But now that you have chosen to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, just how do you go about picking the right school and program so that you will obtain the proper training to become a qualified practitioner? And since the majority of states do require that x-ray techs become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you may require preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you investigate each of the colleges you are considering so that you can compare each program. Many prospective students begin by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and frequently settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location should be taken into consideration, there are other critical qualifications as well. For instance, you need to find out whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are considering are presented later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and education options that are offered.

Radiology Tech Career Description

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, each has the identical major job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many choose to work as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for example mammography. They may work in Waterbury CT hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician may utilize include:

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

Radiographers must take care of their equipment and also routinely evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to retain detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Waterbury CT medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

X-Ray Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Waterbury CTThe basic prerequisite for enrolling in a radiology tech school is to have attained a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the choice to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among techs, generally requires 18 months to two years to finish 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 extensive in scope. Most students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that may be appropriate also. One thing to consider is that Waterbury CT radiographer colleges have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may typically be satisfied by taking part in an externship program which many colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any licensing or certification requirements in Connecticut or the state you will be working as applicable.

Radiographer Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an Radiologist school, based on the state where you will be employed you might need to be licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their prerequisites differ so contact your state. At present, all states that do require licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but a number offer other options for testing as well. Some states also call for certification as a component of the licensing procedure, otherwise it is optional. However, many Waterbury CT employers would rather hire radiology techs that are certified so it could increase your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which can be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Technician Colleges

attending x-ray tech school online in Waterbury 06701As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is the same for online degree schools. So although you can still earn your online degree, a substantial amount of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Clinical training is typically provided in local hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online section of the training can be attended in the comfort of your Waterbury CT residence. Students who continue working while earning their degree often discover that the online approach to learning is far more convenient with their busy schedules. Plus online colleges are frequently less costly than conventional alternatives. In addition to reduced tuition, costs for study materials and commuting can be lessened also. But just make certain that the online college you enroll in is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then an online school may be the best choice for you.

Topics to Ask Radiographer Schools

When you have decided on the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can begin the process of searching for and evaluating Waterbury CT x-ray tech schools. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend online classes or commute to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the college will be relevant. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenses will be a determining factor also. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you factor in when comparing schools? Well, you need to check out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these important details prior to making your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are assessing.

Are the X-Ray Tech Colleges Accredited? The majority of xray tech schools have received some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still important to confirm that the program and school are accredited. One of the most highly regarded accrediting organizations 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 an extensive evaluation of their teachers and educational materials. If the college is online it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also help in securing financial aid and student loans, which are often not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Waterbury CT health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry level positions.

Are Internships Sponsored? Inquire if the Connecticut radiology tech schools you are evaluating have associations with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a great means to obtain practical training in a clinical setting, they are additionally a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may help students and graduates establish professional connections in the Waterbury CT health care community and assist with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Help provided? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Find out if the radiographer programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Waterbury CT healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.

Where is the College Located? For a lot of students, the college they choose will need to be within driving distance of their Waterbury CT home. Students who have opted to attend classes online obviously will not have to worry 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 school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges typically charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges commonly charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of person that prefers to sit far in the back of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Waterbury CT schools you are looking at what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with several of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray technician program as well.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must confirm that the x-ray tech  school you finally pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you decide to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Waterbury CT, check that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss due to work, illness or family emergencies.

Why Did You Choose to Be an Xray Technician?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to reflect on questions you might be asked. Among the things that interviewers frequently ask radiographer prospects is "What compelled you to select radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not only the personal reasons you may have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what characteristics and skills you possess that make you exceptional at what you do. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, as well as a significant number of standard interview questions, so you should prepare a number of strategies about how you want to respond to them. Considering there are so many variables that go into selecting a career, you can address this primary question in a multitude of ways. When readying an answer, try to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the abilities you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but write down several concepts and topics that pertain to your own experiences and strengths. Reading through sample responses can assist you to develop your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to impress the interviewer.

Pick the Best Radiology Technician Program near Waterbury CT

Enrolling in the best radiology tech college is an important first step toward beginning a fulfilling new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist must be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the greater part of the workday and move and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Candidates must also show an ability to pay close attention to detail and to follow the safety guidelines designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Having social skills is a must in order to have a good work environment and furnish the best available patient care. As we have discussed in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each school you are considering before making your ultimate decision. This is just as true whether you opt for an online school or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can assess and compare each program so you can narrow down your options before making your final choice. And with the right training and your commitment to succeed, you can realize your goal to practice as a radiographer in Waterbury CT.

Some Background on Waterbury Connecticut

Waterbury, Connecticut

Waterbury (nicknamed "The Brass City") (/ˈwɔːtərbɛri/ WOR-tər-berr-ee) is a city in the U.S. state of Connecticut on the Naugatuck River, 33 miles (45 minutes) southwest of Hartford and 77 miles (90 minutes) northeast of New York City. Waterbury is in New Haven County, Connecticut. As of the 2010 census, Waterbury had a population of 110,366,[3] making it the 10th largest city in the New York Metropolitan Area, 9th largest city in New England and the 5th largest city in Connecticut.[4]

Throughout the first half of the 20th century, Waterbury had large industrial interests and was the leading center in the United States for the manufacture of brassware (including castings and finishings), as reflected in the nickname the "Brass City" and the city's motto Quid Aere Perennius? ("What Is More Lasting Than Brass?"). It was noted for the manufacture of watches and clocks.

The city is along Interstate 84 (Yankee Expressway) and Route 8 and has a Metro-North railroad station with connections to Grand Central Terminal. Waterbury is also home to Post University and the regional campuses of the University of Connecticut, University of Bridgeport, Western Connecticut State University as well as Naugatuck Valley Community College.

The land was originally inhabited by Native Americans and according to Samuel Orcutt's history, the colonial settlers of Waterbury "found it expedient to purchase the same lands from different tribes, without attempting to decide between their rival claims."[5] The original settlement of Waterbury in 1674 was in the area now known as the Town Plot section. In 1675, the turbulence of King Philip's War caused the new settlement to be vacated until the resumption of peace in 1677, the following colony was west of the first settlement. The original Algonquin inhabitants called the area "Matetacoke" meaning "the interval lands." [6] Thus, the settlement's name was Anglicised to "Mattatuck" in 1673. When the settlement was admitted as the 28th town in the Connecticut Colony in 1686,[7] the name was changed to Waterbury in reference to the numerous streams that emptied into the Naugatuck River from the hills on either side of the valley. At that time, it included all or parts of what later became the towns of Watertown, Plymouth, Wolcott, Prospect, Naugatuck, Thomaston, and Middlebury.

Growth was slow during Waterbury's first hundred years, the lack of arable land due to the constant flooding of the Naugatuck River in particular, discouraged many potential settlers. Furthermore, the residents suffered through a great flood in 1691[8] and an outbreak of disease in 1712. After a century, Waterbury's population numbered just 5,000.[9]

 

More Cities of Interest in Connecticut

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