Schools with X Ray Technician Programs Marshall VA 20115 Archives

How to Pick a Radiology Tech College near Marshall Virginia

Marshall VA x-ray tech internship program Congrats on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Marshall VA in order to become a radiology technician. But now that you have decided to enter the rewarding field of healthcare, just how do you set about selecting the ideal school and program to ensure that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a skilled practitioner? And because the majority of states do mandate that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you might require preparation to pass a licensing test. So it’s essential that you investigate each of the schools you are considering so that you can compare each program. A number of students begin by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and often settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location must be considered, there are additional important qualifiers as well. For instance, you must ask if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These inquiries and others you should ask the schools you are examining are provided later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray tech does and the credentials and education choices that are available.

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Radiology Tech Occupation Summary

There are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, each has the same primary job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many elect to practice as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, such as mammography. They can work in Marshall VA clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist might work with 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 assess its performance and safety. They are additionally required to keep detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Marshall VA health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Marshall VA The basic requirement for attending an x-ray tech school is to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the option to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among technicians, normally takes 18 months to 2 years to complete based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to four years to complete and is more expansive in nature. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other similar majors that are appropriate also. Something to keep in mind is that Marshall VA radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may frequently be fulfilled by participating in an externship program which a large number of schools offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Virginia or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Licensing and Certification

When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech school, depending on the state where you will be employed you might need to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their prerequisites vary so check with your state. Currently, all states that do mandate licensing will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but several approve other options for testing as well. Several states also require certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is optional. Having said that, many Marshall VA employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might increase your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their comprehensive exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every two years, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.

Online Radiology Tech Degrees

attending x-ray tech school online in Marshall 20115 As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree programs. So even though you can still obtain your online degree, a significant amount of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Clinical training is usually conducted in area hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training can be attended in the comfort of your Marshall VA residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree typically discover that the online style of learning is much more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online colleges are often more affordable than conventional alternatives. Along with lower tuition, costs for commuting and study materials may be reduced also. But just make certain that the online college you select is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online school may be the right choice for you.

Topics to Ask X Ray Tech Colleges

When you have selected the kind of degree that you would like to obtain, you can begin the process of searching for and evaluating Marshall VA x-ray technician schools. You will also have to determine if you want to attend classes online or travel to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then of course the location of the college will be critical. The price of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a material factor also. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you look at when evaluating colleges? Well, you should find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you learn some of these important details prior to making your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you need to ask the schools you are reviewing.

Are the X-Ray Tech Colleges Accredited? Most radiology technician schools have acquired some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still imperative to confirm that the program and school are accredited. One of the most highly respected 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 an extensive evaluation of their instructors and educational materials. If the program is online it can also earn 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 guaranteeing a quality education, accreditation will also help in securing financial aid and student loans, which are often not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Marshall VA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry-level positions.

Are Internships Provided? Inquire if the Virginia xray technician programs you are evaluating have relationships with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific manner to obtain hands on training in a clinical environment, they are also a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may assist students and graduates establish professional relationships in the Marshall VA healthcare community and help with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the radiographer programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Marshall VA healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the School Located? For many students, the college they select will need to be within driving distance of their Marshall VA residence. Those who have chosen to attend online classes naturally will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of concern. Something 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 be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges typically charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges generally charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the sort of person that likes to sit way in the back of class or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Smaller classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Marshall VA schools you are considering what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to monitor one or more classes before making your final decision. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with several of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the radiology tech program as well.

Does the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must confirm that the radiographer college you finally select can provide the class schedule you need. This is particularly crucial if you decide to continue working while attending classes. If you need to schedule night or weekend classes in Marshall VA, make sure that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, check if that is an option and how many credit hours or courses you would have to enroll in. Also, ask what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss as a result of illness, work or family emergencies.

Why Did You Choose to Become a Radiology Technician?

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's helpful to reflect on questions you may be asked. Among the things that hiring managers frequently ask radiographer applicants is "What made you choose radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is hoping to uncover is not merely the private reasons you might have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what characteristics and abilities you have that make you good at your profession. You will likely be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, in addition to a significant number of standard interview questions, so you should ready some ideas about how you would like to answer them. Because there are numerous factors that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, aim to include the reasons the work interests you in addition to the talents you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the best choice for the position. Don't try to memorize a response, but write down several ideas and topics that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample answers can assist you to develop your own concepts, and provide ideas of what to include to enthuse the interviewer.

Choose the Best X-Ray Technician College near Marshall VA

Selecting the ideal radiology technician school is a critical first step toward starting a rewarding new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist must be in good physical shape. Radiology techs regularly stand for the greater part of the day and position and sometimes lift the patient to get the correct image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements designed 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 pleasant work environment and deliver the best available care to patients. As has been addressed in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each school you are looking at before making your ultimate decision. This is just as true whether you enroll in an online program or commute to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can examine and compare each school so you can focus your options before making your decision. And with the right education and your motivation to succeed, you can realize your goal to practice as a radiographer in Marshall VA.

Some Background on Marshall Virginia

George Marshall

George Catlett Marshall Jr. (December 31, 1880 – October 16, 1959) was an American statesman and soldier. He was Chief of Staff of the United States Army under presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman, and served as Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense under Truman. He was hailed as the "organizer of victory" by Winston Churchill for his leadership of the Allied victory in World War II. After the war, in his service as Secretary of State, Marshall advocated a significant U.S. economic and political commitment to post-war European recovery, including the Marshall Plan that bore his name. In recognition of this work, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953.[4]

Born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Marshall was a 1901 graduate of the Virginia Military Institute. After serving briefly as commandant of students at the Danville Military Academy in Danville, Virginia, Marshall received his commission as a second lieutenant of Infantry in February, 1902. In the years after the Spanish–American War, he served in the United States and overseas in positions of increasing rank and responsibility, including platoon leader and company commander in the Philippines during the Philippine–American War. He was the Honor Graduate of his Infantry-Cavalry School Course in 1907, and graduated first in his 1908 Army Staff College class. In 1916 Marshall was assigned as aide-de-camp to J. Franklin Bell, the commander of the Western Department. After the United States entered World War I, Marshall served with Bell while Bell commanded the Department of the East. He was assigned to the staff of the 1st Division, and assisted with the organization's mobilization and training in the United States, as well as planning of its combat operations in France. Subsequently assigned to the staff of the American Expeditionary Forces headquarters, he was a key planner of American operations including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive.

After the war, Marshall was assigned as an aide-de-camp to John J. Pershing, who was then serving as the Army's Chief of Staff. He later served on the Army staff, commanded the 15th Infantry Regiment in China, and was an instructor at the Army War College. In 1927, he became assistant commandant of the Army's Infantry School, where he modernized command and staff processes, which proved to be of major benefit during World War II. In 1932 and 1933 he commanded the 8th Infantry Regiment and Fort Screven, Georgia. Marshall commanded 5th Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division and Vancouver Barracks from 1936 to 1938, and received promotion to brigadier general. During this command, Marshall was also responsible for 35 Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps in Oregon and southern Washington. In July 1938, Marshall was assigned to the War Plans Division on the War Department staff, and he was subsequently appointed as the Army's Deputy Chief of Staff. When Chief of Staff Malin Craig retired in 1939, Marshall became acting Chief of Staff, and then Chief of Staff. He served as Chief of Staff until the end of the war in 1945.

As Chief of Staff, Marshall organized the largest military expansion in U.S. history, and received promotion to five-star rank as General of the Army. Marshall coordinated Allied operations in Europe and the Pacific until the end of the war; in addition to being hailed as the organizer of Allied victory by Winston Churchill, Time magazine named Marshall its Man of the Year for 1943. Marshall retired from active service in 1945, but remained on active duty, a requirement for holders of five-star rank.[5] In late 1945 and early 1946 he served as a special envoy to China in an unsuccessful effort to negotiate a coalition government between the Nationalists of Chiang Kai-shek and Communists under Mao Zedong.

As Secretary of State from 1947 to 1949, Marshall received credit for the Marshall Plan for Europe's post-war rebuilding, the success of which was recognized with award of the 1953 Nobel Peace Prize.[6] After resigning as Secretary of State, Marshall served as chairman of American Battle Monuments Commission[7] and president of the American National Red Cross. As Secretary of Defense at the start of the Korean War, Marshall worked to restore the military's confidence and morale at the end of its post-World War II demobilization and then its initial buildup for combat in Korea and operations during the Cold War. After resigning as Defense Secretary, Marshall retired to his home in Virginia. He died in 1959 and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.