Tag Archives: Schools with Radiologic Technologist Programs Thomaston CT 06787

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Thomaston CT 06787

How to Pick a Radiology Technician Degree Program near Thomaston Connecticut

Thomaston CT x-ray tech internship programCongrats regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Thomaston CT so you can learn to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have decided to go into the rewarding field of healthcare, how do you tackle selecting the right college and program so that you will obtain the proper training to become a skilled professional? And because the majority of states do require that x-ray techs become licensed, based on where you ultimately practice you may require training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you assess each of the colleges you are considering in order to compare each program. Many potential students begin by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and often settle on the lowest cost. But while cost and location should be considered, there are other important qualifiers also. For example, you must find out whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internships. These questions and others you must ask the schools you are evaluating are presented later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic technician does and the degrees and training options that are available.

Radiology Tech Occupation Description

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, they all have the identical fundamental job description, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many choose to work as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialty, for instance mammography. They may work in Thomaston CT clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician 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 take care of their equipment and also frequently evaluate its functionality and safety. They are also required to retain in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Thomaston CT health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Tech Degrees

x-ray machine in Thomaston CTThe standard prerequisite for enrolling in a radiology tech college 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 common among techs, generally requires 18 months to two years to complete based upon the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as 4 years to finish and is more extensive in nature. The majority of students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be acceptable as well. One thing to consider is that Thomaston CT radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can often be fulfilled by taking part 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 will need to abide by any licensing or certification requirements in Connecticut or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an x-ray technician school, based on the state where you will be employed you may need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their prerequisites differ so check with your state. Presently, all states that do require licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but many accept additional alternatives for testing also. Some states also require certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. Having said that, numerous Thomaston CT employers favor hiring radiology techs that are certified so it could improve your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every other year, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.

Online X-Ray Technologist Classes

attending x-ray tech school online in Thomaston 06787As a component of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree programs. So while you can still earn your degree online, a significant portion of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an externship off-campus. Clinical training is typically provided in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online segment of the training may be attended in the privacy of your Thomaston CT residence. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree typically discover that the online approach to learning is far more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are often more affordable than traditional options. Along with reduced tuition, costs for study materials and commuting may be reduced as well. But just confirm that the online college you choose 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 degree may be the best option for you.

Questions to Ask Radiology Tech Colleges

When you have decided on the type of degree that you want to earn, you can begin the process of searching for and evaluating Thomaston CT x-ray tech schools. You will also need to determine if you prefer to attend online classes or drive to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the college will be relevant. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenses will be an important factor as well. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you consider when comparing schools? Well, you need to find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these essential details before you make your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the schools you are considering.

Are the X-Ray Technician Programs Accredited? A large number of xray tech colleges have earned some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. Nevertheless, it’s still important to confirm that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a rigorous assessment 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 organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with guaranteeing a premium education, accreditation will also help in securing financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Thomaston CT employers will only hire graduates of an accredited school for entry level positions.

Are Internship Programs Sponsored? Ask if the Connecticut radiology tech colleges you are assessing have relationships with regional clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent manner to receive hands on training in a clinical environment, they are also a means to satisfy the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist students and graduates develop professional connections in the Thomaston CT medical community and assist with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the radiographer programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Thomaston CT healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.

Where is the College Located? For a number of students, the school they pick will have to be within commuting distance of their Thomaston CT residence. Students who have decided to attend online classes naturally will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of concern. Something to keep in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you might have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges usually charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of person that likes to sit way in the rear of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will likely prefer a small class size. Smaller classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Thomaston CT schools you are looking at what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may want to monitor one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you a chance to converse with a few of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the radiology technician program as well.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the x-ray tech  school you ultimately select can offer 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 Thomaston CT, make sure that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would have to enroll in. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.

Why Did You Decide to Become a Radiologic Technologist?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's a good idea to consider questions you might be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers typically ask radiographer applicants is "What drove you to select radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is hoping to uncover is not only the private reasons you may have for becoming a radiology technician, but additionally what attributes and talents you have that make you outstanding at what you do. You will probably be asked questions relating exclusively to radiography, as well as a certain number of general interview questions, so you should organize a number of approaches about how you would like to respond to them. Considering there are so many variables that go into selecting a career, you can respond to this primary question in a variety of ways. When preparing an answer, attempt to include the reasons the profession interests you along with the talents you have that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the best choice for the job. Don't try to memorize a response, but write down a few concepts and topics that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Reviewing sample answers can help you to formulate your own concepts, and inspire ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the interviewer.

Select the Right Radiology Technician College near Thomaston CT

Choosing the appropriate radiology technician degree program is a crucial first step toward launching a rewarding new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the greater part of the day and position and at times lift the patient to get the correct image. Candidates must also show an ability to pay close attention to detail and to observe the safety requirements designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray techs work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Having social skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and provide the best possible patient care. As we have discussed in this article, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each school you are looking at prior to making your ultimate decision. This is equally true whether you decide on an online program or travel to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can assess and compare each school so you can narrow down your options and make your decision. And with the right training and your dedication to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to practice as a x-ray tech in Thomaston CT.

Some Background on Thomaston Connecticut

Thomaston, Connecticut

Thomaston is a town in Litchfield County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 7,887 at the 2010 census. The urban center of the town is the Thomaston census-designated place, with a population of 1,910 at the 2010 census.[4]

The town, originally part of Plymouth, Connecticut, and referred to as 'Plymouth Hollow' was first settled by Henry Cook ("the soldier in the wilderness," 1683–1750) around 1728.[5][6] The town is known for clockmaking, which started in 1803, when Eli Terry established a factory in the town. Terry brought mass production to the clockmaking industry, helping to reduce the cost of clocks. He introduced and patented the shelf clock in 1814,[5] which reduced the cost of a clock from $25 to $5. His clocks were sold throughout the US.[5] It was incorporated in its own right and under the name "Thomaston" in 1875.[7] The name derives from Seth Thomas, the early clockmaker, who established a factory in town in 1812.[8][7] The Seth Thomas clock factory building still exists; however, the clockmaking industry has long since left the state as well as the country.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total size of 12.2 square miles (31.7 km²). 12.0 square miles (31.1 km²) of it is land and 0.2 square miles (0.6 km²) of it (1.80%) is water.

The town is located at the confluence of the Naugatuck River, Northfield Brook and Black Rock Brook, and is protected by Army Corps of Engineers flood control dams on each of these watercourses. These were all constructed in the years immediately following the devastating flood of 1955 which ravaged the town as well as the state in general.

As of the census[11] of 2000, there were 7,503 people, 2,916 households, and 2,067 families residing in the town. The population density was 624.7 people per square mile (241.2/km²). There were 3,014 housing units at an average density of 251.0 per square mile (96.9/km²). The racial makeup of the town was 97.85% White, Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.45% of the population, 0.60% African American, 0.11% Native American, 0.49% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.41% from other races, and 0.53% from two or more races.

 

More Cities of Interest in Connecticut

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