Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Alviso CA 95002 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Pick a Radiologic Technician College near Alviso California

Alviso CA x-ray tech internship program Congrats regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Alviso CA in order to become a radiology technician. And now that you have made a decision to enter the satisfying field of healthcare, just how do you tackle choosing the ideal school and program to ensure that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a skilled practitioner? And considering that the majority of states do mandate that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately practice you might need preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s essential that you assess each of the colleges you are looking at so that you can evaluate each program. A number of prospective students begin by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and often settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location need to be considered, there are additional critical qualifications as well. For example, you need to ask whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internships. These questions and others you must ask the colleges you are considering are presented later in this article. But first, let’s explore what a radiologic technician does and the credentials and training options that are available.

X-Ray Tech Career Description

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, they all have the identical primary job function, which is to use 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 elect to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, such as mammography. They can practice in Alviso CA 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 take care of their equipment and frequently evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally required to keep in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Alviso CA health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

Radiology Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Alviso CA The standard prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech program is to have received 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 prevalent among technicians, normally requires 18 months to two years to finish depending on the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to 4 years to finish and is more expansive in scope. The majority of students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be appropriate also. Something to bear in mind is that Alviso CA radiographer colleges have a clinical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It can frequently be satisfied by taking part in an externship program which a large number of schools 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 mandates in California or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiographer Licensing and Certification

When you have graduated from an Radiologist school, based on the state where you will be practicing you might need to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their prerequisites differ so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the purpose of licensing, but a number approve other options for testing also. Several states also call for certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is optional. Having said that, numerous Alviso CA employers will only hire radiology techs that are certified so it may increase your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every two years, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Technician Schools

attending x-ray tech school online in Alviso 95002 As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is the same for online degree programs. So although you can still obtain your online degree, a considerable portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an internship off campus. Practical training is typically performed in regional hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online segment of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Alviso CA home. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree often discover that the online style of education is much more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online schools are generally less expensive than traditional options. Along with reduced tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials may be decreased as well. But just make certain 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 type of training, then an online school may be the ideal choice for you.

Questions to Ask X Ray Tech Colleges

As soon as you have chosen the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can begin the process of looking for and assessing Alviso CA x-ray tech colleges. You will also need to decide if you prefer to attend online classes or travel to a nearby campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be relevant. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenses will be an important factor as well. But along with location and cost, what more should you factor in when evaluating schools? Well, you need to find out if the schools are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these essential details before you make your decision, we have assembled a list of questions that you must ask the schools you are looking at.

Are the Radiology Technician Schools Accredited? A large number of xray technician colleges have obtained some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. Even so, it’s still crucial to make sure that the school and program 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 obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through an extensive assessment of their teachers and course materials. If the school is online it can also obtain 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. In addition to guaranteeing a premium education, accreditation will also assist in getting financial assistance and student loans, which are frequently not offered for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Alviso CA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry level positions.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Ask if the California xray technician colleges you are assessing have relationships with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only an excellent way to get practical training in a clinical setting, they are also a means to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they may assist students and graduates develop professional relationships in the Alviso CA medical community and assist with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the x-ray tech 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 sizable networks and great relationships with Alviso CA healthcare employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the Program Located? For a number of students, the school they pick will need to be within commuting distance of their Alviso CA home. Those who have opted to attend online classes obviously will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. One thing to keep in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you may have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges frequently charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the type of student that likes to sit far in the back of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will undoubtedly prefer a small class size. Smaller classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Alviso CA colleges you are considering what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you an opportunity to converse with a few of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the x-ray tech program as well.

Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the x-ray tech program you ultimately choose can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you choose to continue working while you attend classes. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Alviso CA, check that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to enroll in. Also, find out 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 Want to Become an X-Ray Tech?

When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to reflect on questions you could be asked. Among the things that recruiters often ask radiographer candidates is "What made you select radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is hoping to learn is not just the private reasons you may have for becoming a radiology technician, but also what attributes and skills you have that make you good at what you do. You will likely be asked questions relating specifically to radiography, in addition to a certain number of routine interview questions, so you should organize a number of approaches about how you would like to address them. Given that there are so many factors that go into selecting a career, you can address this primary question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the profession appeals to you along with the strengths you have that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the position. Don't make an effort to memorize a response, but jot down several concepts and topics that pertain to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample answers can help you to formulate your own thoughts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the recruiter.

Select the Best X-Ray Tech Program near Alviso CA

Selecting the best x-ray tech degree program is a critical first step toward initiating a satisfying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs often stand for the greater part of the workday and position and sometimes lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Candidates must also demonstrate a capability 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 technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Possessing social skills is a must in order to have a good work environment and provide the best available care to patients. As has been covered in this article, there are a number of questions that you should ask each school you are assessing prior to making your final selection. This is just as true whether you participate in an online program or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can assess and compare each program so you can narrow down your choices before making your decision. And with the appropriate education and your commitment to succeed, you can realize your goal to practice as a radiographer in Alviso CA.

Some Background on Alviso California

Alviso, San Jose

Alviso is a neighborhood in San Jose, Santa Clara County, California, and until 1968, it was an independent city of the same name. It is located approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south of Drawbridge, at the north end of San José where it meets the southern end of the San Francisco Bay and borders the cities of Milpitas, Sunnyvale, and Santa Clara.

The Guadalupe River and Coyote Creek both end at Alviso, emptying into the Bay through Alviso Slough and Mud Slough. Alviso is the lowest point in the San Francisco Bay Area at 13 feet (4.0 m) below sea level.[2] Throughout the 20th Century, Alviso has been victim to severe flooding most recently in 1983 and 1995.[3]

Alviso was first settled in the 18th century. The community was named for Ignacio Alviso, the son of Corporal Domingo Alviso, one of the original members of the de Anza expedition. Corporal Alviso lived but a short time after reaching San Francisco and was buried March 11, 1777[4] Alviso's descendants were granted the Rancho Rincon de Los Esteros holding. In 1840, his descendant of the same name, Ignacio Alviso, moved from Mission Santa Clara de Asís to this 3,653 acres (14.78 km2) ranchero. From this port, beaver pelts, cattle hides and tallow went to San Francisco.[5]

The city of Alviso was incorporated on March 4, 1852, as the boating and shipping port of San José and the transportation hub for the Santa Clara Valley to the San Francisco Bay. Steamboats traveled regularly between San Francisco and Alviso. That usage declined with the growth in railroad transportation between San Francisco and San José. In 1864 Alviso was bypassed by the San Francisco and San Jose Railroad, (later part of the Southern Pacific Railroad). However, in the 1880s Alviso was a stop on the Newark line of Southern Pacific Railroad between San José and Oakland.

Alviso was the home to a series of several successful business ventures. Alviso Mills, founded in 1853, at its peak produced up to 300 barrels of flour a day. As wheat production in the San Joaquín Valley grew, production in the Santa Clara Valley waned and the Alviso Mills closed in 1885. In 1906, Sai Yin Chew opened the Bayside Canning Company there, and at its peak was the 3rd largest cannery in the United States. During The Depression Alviso was known for its dance halls and gambling establishments. In the 1960s and 1970s a small independent boat building community developed there.[6]