Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Winder GA 30680 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Pick an X-Ray Technician College near Winder Georgia

Winder GA x-ray tech internship program Best wishes regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Winder GA so you can become a radiologic technologist. But now that you have decided to enter the gratifying field of healthcare, just how do you set about picking the right college and program so that you will receive the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And since most states do mandate that x-ray technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you might require preparation to pass a licensing test. So it’s imperative that you assess each of the colleges you are considering so that you can evaluate each program. Most prospective students start by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and frequently settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location should be taken into consideration, there are other critical qualifications also. For example, you must ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internship programs. These questions and others you should ask the schools you are evaluating are provided later in this article. But first, let’s explore what a radiologic tech does and the degrees and education choices that are offered.

Radiology Tech Occupation Description

There are multiple professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. Irrespective of the name, they all have the identical principal job function, which is to employ imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some elect to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They can work in Winder GA hospitals, clinics, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist might utilize include:

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

Radiographers must maintain their equipment and regularly analyze its performance and safety. They are also required to keep detailed records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Winder GA health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

X-Ray Technician Degree Options

x-ray machine in Winder GA The standard requirement for attending an x-ray tech program is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, generally requires 18 months to 2 years to complete based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as four years to complete and is more comprehensive in scope. Most students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be acceptable as well. One thing to bear in mind is that Winder GA radiographer programs have a clinical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It may often be fulfilled by participating in an internship or externship program which many schools offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. After you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing mandates in Georgia or the state you will be working as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Licensing and Certification

When you have graduated from an X-Ray tech school, based on the state where you will be employed you may have to be licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their requirements differ so contact your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but a number offer other options for testing also. Several states also call for certification as a component of the licensing procedure, if not it is optional. However, numerous Winder GA employers will only hire radiology techs that are certified so it might improve your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online X-Ray Tech Degrees

attending x-ray tech school online in Winder 30680 As a component of any 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 colleges. So even though you can still earn your online degree, a substantial portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off-campus. Practical training is often provided 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 Winder GA home. Students who continue working while earning their degree often discover that the online approach to learning is far more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are generally cheaper than traditional options. In addition to lower tuition, costs for commuting and study materials may be decreased as well. But just confirm that the online school you enroll in is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then an online school may be the right choice for you.

Points to Ask Radiographer Programs

When you have decided on the type of degree that you want to earn, you can initiate the process of searching for and evaluating Winder GA x-ray technician colleges. You will also need to determine if you want to attend online classes or travel to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then of course the location of the college will be important. The price of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be an important variable as well. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you factor in when reviewing schools? Well, you need to check out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you learn some of these crucial details prior to making your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you need to ask the schools you are reviewing.

Are the X-Ray Tech Schools Accredited? A large number of radiology tech schools have acquired some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still important to confirm that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a rigorous evaluation of their teachers and educational materials. If the college is online it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also assist in getting financial aid and student loans, which are often not offered for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And numerous Winder GA health facilities will only hire graduates of an accredited school for entry level jobs.

Are Internships Sponsored? Find out if the Georgia radiology technician colleges you are evaluating have partnerships with local clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only an excellent way to obtain practical experience in a clinical environment, they are also a way to satisfy the practical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can help graduates and students develop professional connections in the Winder GA medical community and help with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Find out if the x-ray tech programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Winder GA healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the School Located? For many students, the school they pick will have to be within travelling distance of their Winder GA home. Those who have chosen to attend classes online obviously will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. One thing to consider is that if you choose to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you might be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges generally charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the kind of student that prefers to sit way in the rear of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will undoubtedly prefer a smaller class size. Smaller classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Winder GA schools you are researching what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate determination. This will also give you a chance to talk with some of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program also.

Does the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the radiographer program you ultimately select can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially crucial if you opt to continue working while attending school. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Winder GA, verify 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 need to carry. Also, ask what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss because of work, illness or family emergencies.

Why Did You Desire to Become a Radiologic Technologist?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's advantageous to review questions you could be asked. One of the things that interviewers often ask radiographer candidates is "What made you decide on radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not just the private reasons you might have for being an X-Ray tech, but additionally what qualities and abilities you have that make you outstanding at your profession. You will likely be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, as well as a significant number of general interview questions, so you should ready some ideas about how you want to respond to them. Considering there are several variables that go into choosing a career, you can address this fundamental question in a multitude of ways. When preparing an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work interests you along with the talents you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the best choice for the job. Don't attempt to memorize an answer, but jot down several ideas and talking points that pertain to your personal experiences and strengths. Reviewing sample responses can assist you to develop your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to impress the recruiter.

Select the Right X-Ray Tech Program near Winder GA

Selecting the best radiology technician degree program is a critical first step toward starting a rewarding new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer should be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs regularly stand for the greater part of the day and position and at times lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having social skills is a must in order to have a pleasant work environment and furnish the best available care to patients. As has been discussed in this post, there are several questions that you need to ask each college you are assessing before making your ultimate decision. This is equally true whether you enroll in an online program or travel to classes on campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each program so you can narrow down your choices before making your final choice. And with the right education and your dedication to be successful, you can achieve your goal to work as a radiographer in Winder GA.

Some Background on Winder Georgia

Winder, Georgia

Winder (pronounced WYN-der) is a city in Barrow County, Georgia, United States. It is located east of Atlanta and is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. The population was 14,099 at the 2010 census. The first syllable of Winder is pronounced like "wine". [5] The city is the county seat of Barrow County.[6]

Winder was a place for early settlement, being first occupied hundreds of years ago by Creek Indians, who called it Snodon.[7] Activities centered around what are now Athens and Church streets. When white settlers established homes and farms near that village in 1793, the town was renamed, becoming The Jug, and, ten years later; Jug Tavern. At that time, the town had a population of 37 persons. The first school was built on 11.5 acres, known as the Academy Lot, located at the intersection of West Athens and Church streets. An historic marker now commemorates the site. For protection from hostile Indians, Fort Yargo was constructed, one of four such forts built in the area by the Humphrey brothers.

Jug Tavern grew slowly during the decades before the Civil War. The town, at the time of its origin, extended from the railroad crossing of Broad Street (then known as Jefferson Road) for one-half mile into three counties: Jackson, Walton and Gwinnett. In 1884, Jug Tavern was incorporated by the Georgia General Assembly. It was first governed by a mayor and four aldermen who were elected annually. The first mayor, N. J. Kelly, took the oath of office on January 8, 1885.

During the Civil War, Jug Tavern was largely untouched, though a number of its young men fought in several battles. Towards the end of that conflict, however, as the northern armies of General William T. Sherman approached, two important skirmishes took place nearby; first in the fight known as the Battle of Jug Tavern in July 1864, and, during the following month, the Battle of King's Tanyard.[8]

That decade and the next were pivotal in Winder's history. The city began to achieve prominence with the construction of railroads. The Gainesville Midland Railroad (then the Gainesville, Jefferson and Southern Railroad) built tracks through Jug Tavern along Midland Avenue in 1883, connecting it with Gainesville and Social Circle, with other stops at Bethlehem and Mulberry. The Georgia, Carolina and North Railroad (later to be merged with the Seaboard Air Line Railrway) was planned to pass four miles south of Jug Tavern, but enterprising local citizens deeded 16 acres for $10 to induce the railroad to pass through the town, which it first did on April 24, 1892, with 150 passengers on board. Jug Tavern henceforth became a station on the Atlanta and Athens run, and a depot was erected that year. Most of the early commercial activity which came to the heart of downtown was located between these two rail lines.