How to Choose an X-Ray Technician Program near Titusville Pennsylvania
Best wishes regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Titusville PA in order to learn to be a radiologic technician. But now that you have decided to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, just how do you set about selecting the right school and program so that you will receive the appropriate training to become a qualified practitioner? And since most states do mandate that radiology techs become licensed, depending on where you subsequently work you may need training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s imperative that you investigate each of the colleges you are looking at so that you can compare each program. Many students begin by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and often settle on the most affordable cost. But while location and cost should be taken into account, there are additional critical qualifications as well. For instance, you must find out whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they offer internship programs. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are considering are presented later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a radiologic tech does and the degrees and training options that are offered.
Radiology Technician Job Summary
There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. No matter what the name, they all have the identical major job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many choose to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialty, for example mammography. They may practice in Titusville PA clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist may work with include:
- Traditional and specialized X-Rays
- Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Sonography or ultrasound
- Fluoroscopy
Radiographers must care for their equipment and frequently evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to keep complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Titusville PA medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
X-Ray Tech Degree Options
The basic prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech school is to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist pupils have the option to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among techs, normally requires 18 months to 2 years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at as much as 4 years to finish and is more extensive in scope. Most students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are other similar majors that may be appropriate also. One thing to bear in mind is that Titusville PA radiographer programs have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can typically be fulfilled by taking part in an externship program which many colleges offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must abide by any licensing or certification mandates in Pennsylvania or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.
Radiographer Licensing and Certification
Once you have graduated from an x-ray technician school, based on the state where you will be working you might have to become licensed. The majority of states do mandate licensing, and their requirements vary so check with your state. Currently, all states that do require licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but several provide additional alternatives for testing as well. Several states also require certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is voluntary. However, many Titusville PA 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 approved program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every two years, which may be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.
Online Radiology Technologist Schools
As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree programs. So even though you can still earn your online degree, a large portion of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an internship off campus. Practical training is typically conducted in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online portion of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Titusville PA home. Students who continue working while earning their degree usually discover that the online style of education is much more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are frequently cheaper than conventional options. In addition to lower tuition, costs for study materials and commuting can be reduced also. But just confirm that the online school you choose is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then online classes may be the best option for you.
Questions to Ask Radiographer Programs
As soon as you have decided on the kind of degree that you would like to obtain, you can begin the process of looking for and assessing Titusville PA x-ray technician schools. You will also need to decide if you prefer to attend classes online or drive to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the school will be important. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenses will be a determining variable as well. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you look at when evaluating colleges? Well, you need to find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these important details before you make your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the programs you are assessing.
Are the Radiology Technician Colleges Accredited? The majority of radiology tech schools have acquired some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Nevertheless, it’s still imperative to verify that the school and program are accredited. One of 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 undergone a detailed review of their instructors and course materials. If the college is online it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting agencies should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial assistance and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited schools. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Titusville PA health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry level openings.
Are Internship Programs Offered? Inquire if the Pennsylvania radiology tech schools you are evaluating have relationships with local hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific way to get hands on experience in a clinical environment, they are also a means to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they may assist graduates and students form professional connections in the Titusville PA healthcare community and assist with job placement.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the radiographer schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Titusville PA healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the College Located? For many students, the school they decide on will have to be within commuting distance of their Titusville PA residence. Those who have decided to attend online classes naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of concern. One thing to keep 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 have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges commonly charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges frequently charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.
How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of student that likes to sit way in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will undoubtedly prefer a small class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Titusville PA colleges you are considering what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your final decision. This will also give you an opportunity to speak with some of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the radiology tech program as well.
Does the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the x-ray tech program you ultimately select can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly crucial if you opt to continue working while attending classes. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Titusville PA, make certain that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, check if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would need to carry. Also, learn what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss as a result of illness, work or family obligations.
Why Did You Want to Become a Radiology Technician?
When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's important to reflect on questions you might be asked. One of the questions that interviewers frequently ask radiographer candidates is "What compelled you to choose radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not only the private reasons you may have for being a radiology technician, but additionally what attributes and talents you have that make you outstanding at your profession. You will likely be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, in addition to a significant number of routine interview questions, so you must organize a number of ideas about how you want to address them. Because there are so many variables that go into selecting a career, you can answer this primary question in a variety of ways. When formulating an answer, aim to include the reasons the work interests you as well as the talents you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the ideal choice for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but take down some concepts and anecdotes that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Going over sample answers can help you to develop your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to wow the recruiter.Choose the Ideal X-Ray Tech College near Titusville PA
Enrolling in the ideal radiology technician college is a critical first step toward beginning a rewarding new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the majority of the workday and move and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate a capability to pay close attention to detail and to adhere to the safety guidelines designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology 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 productive work environment and deliver the best possible patient care. As we have discussed in this post, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each college you are looking at before making your final selection. This is just as true whether you decide on an online school or travel to classes on-campus. By asking the right questions you can assess and compare each college so you can focus your options before making your decision. And with the appropriate training and your motivation to succeed, you can realize your goal to practice as a radiographer in Titusville PA.
Some Background on Titusville Pennsylvania
Titusville, Pennsylvania
Titusville is a city in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 5,601 at the 2010 census,[3] and the city is part of the Meadville, PA Micropolitan Statistical Area and Erie-Meadville, PA Combined Statistical Area. Titusville is where the modern oil industry began.[4]
The area was first settled in 1796 by Jonathan Titus. Within 14 years, others bought and improved the land lying near him, along the banks of the now-named Oil Creek. He named the village Edinburg(h), but as the village grew, the settlers began to call this little hamlet Titusville. The village was incorporated as a borough in 1849.
Lumber was the principal industry with at least 17 sawmills in the area.
The Titusville City Hall and Titusville Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.[5]
Titusville was a slow-growing community until the 1850s, when petroleum was discovered in the region.
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