How to Select a Radiology Tech Degree Program near Opelousas Louisiana
Congratulations on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Opelousas LA so you can learn to be a radiologic technologist. But now that you have made a decision to go into the rewarding field of healthcare, just how do you go about selecting the right school and program to ensure that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And considering that most states do require that x-ray techs become licensed, based on where you ultimately work you may require training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s important that you investigate each of the colleges you are looking at in order to compare each program. Most potential students start by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and often gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while expense and location should be taken into consideration, there are additional critical qualifiers as well. For instance, you need to ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internship programs. These inquiries and others you should ask the colleges you are reviewing are presented later in this article. But first, let’s explore what a radiology tech does and the degrees and training options that are offered.
Radiology Technician Occupation Description
There are several professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, each has the same fundamental job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists might also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many elect to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialty, for instance mammography. They can practice in Opelousas LA clinics, hospitals, family 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 and frequently evaluate its performance and safety. They are also expected to retain in-depth records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Opelousas LA medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
X-Ray Tech Degree Options
The primary requirement for attending an x-ray tech school is to have attained a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, generally takes 18 months to two years to finish depending on the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at up to four years to complete and is more comprehensive in nature. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be appropriate as well. One thing to keep in mind is that Opelousas LA radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It may frequently be satisfied by taking part in an externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local clinics and hospitals in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any certification or licensing mandates in Louisiana or the state you will be working as applicable.
X-Ray Tech Licensing and Certification
Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, based on the state where you will be working you may have to become licensed. The majority of states do mandate licensing, and their criteria differ so check with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but many approve other alternatives for testing also. A number of states also call for certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. However, many Opelousas LA employers favor hiring radiology techs that are certified so it may enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also demands re-certification every two years, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.
Online Radiology Technician Classes
As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree colleges. So even though you can still obtain your degree online, a substantial portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off-campus. Clinical training is often conducted in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. But the online segment of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Opelousas LA residence. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree often find that the online style of learning is far more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are generally more affordable than on-campus options. In addition to reduced tuition, expenses for commuting and study materials may be reduced also. But just confirm that the online school you enroll in is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are disciplined enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then online classes may be the right option for you.
Questions to Ask X Ray Tech Colleges
When you have chosen the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can initiate the process of looking for and assessing Opelousas LA x-ray technician schools. You will also need to determine if you want to attend online classes or commute to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be relevant. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be a material factor as well. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you consider when reviewing schools? Well, you should check out if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you uncover some of these important details before you make your decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you need to ask the colleges you are reviewing.
Are the Radiology Technician Programs Accredited? Most radiology technician colleges have earned some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still imperative to make sure that the program and school 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 receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous examination of their teachers and course materials. If the college is online it may also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. All accrediting organizations should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Besides guaranteeing a premium education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial assistance and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Opelousas LA employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry level positions.
Are Internship Programs Provided? Find out if the Louisiana xray tech colleges you are evaluating have associations with regional clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only a terrific means to receive hands on training in a clinical environment, they are additionally a means to satisfy the practical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they can help students and graduates form professional relationships in the Opelousas LA health care community and assist with job placement.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the x-ray tech schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Opelousas LA healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? For a lot of students, the college they decide on will need to be within driving distance of their Opelousas LA home. Those who have opted to attend online classes naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of concern. Something to consider is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges usually charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges commonly charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.
What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the sort of student that prefers to sit way in the rear of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably prefer a smaller class size. Smaller classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Opelousas LA schools you are considering what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with a few of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray technician program also.
Does the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must verify that the x-ray tech school you ultimately select can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly crucial if you choose to continue working while attending classes. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Opelousas LA, make certain that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, verify if that is an option and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss due to illness, work or family emergencies.
Why Did You Decide to Be an X-Ray Tech?
When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's important to reflect on questions you may be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers often ask radiographer applicants is "What drove you to pick radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is hoping to discover is not only the personal reasons you may have for becoming an Xray technician, but additionally what characteristics and abilities you possess that make you exceptional at what you do. You will undoubtedly be asked questions relating exclusively to radiography, as well as a significant number of standard interview questions, so you must ready several ideas about how you would like to answer them. Since there are so many variables that go into choosing a career, you can address this primary question in a multitude of ways. When preparing an answer, aim to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the abilities you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the perfiect choice for the job. Don't try to memorize a response, but jot down several concepts and anecdotes that pertain to your own experiences and strengths. Going over sample answers can help you to prepare your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to impress the interviewer.Select the Ideal X-Ray Tech School near Opelousas LA
Picking the appropriate radiology technician degree program is a crucial first step toward starting a satisfying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer should be in good physical shape. Radiology techs frequently stand for the greater part of the day and position and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Prospects must also demonstrate a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to comply with the safety guidelines developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a good work environment and deliver the best possible care to patients. As has been addressed in this report, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each program you are assessing before making your ultimate selection. This is similarly true whether you decide on an online program or drive to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can examine and compare each program so you can focus your choices and make your decision. And with the right education and your commitment to be successful, you can reach your goal to practice as a radiology tech in Opelousas LA.
Some Background on Opelousas Louisiana
Opelousas, Louisiana
Opelousas (French: les Opelousas; coloquially: Slopelousas[3]) is a small city in and the parish seat of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, United States.[4] It lies at the junction of Interstate 49 and U.S. Route 190. The population was 22,860 at the 2000 census. Although the 2006 population estimate was 23,222, a 2004 annexation should have put the city's population above 25,000.[citation needed] In the 2010 census, but the population shrank to 16,634.[5] Opelousas is the principal city for the Opelousas-Eunice Micropolitan Statistical Area, which had an estimated population of 92,178 in 2008. Opelousas is also the third-largest city in the Lafayette-Acadiana Combined Statistical Area, which has a population of 537,947.
At 7.5 square miles, Opelousas is the most densely populated incorporated city in Louisiana. Founded in 1720, Opelousas is Louisiana's third-oldest city. The city served as a major trading post between New Orleans and Natchitoches in the 18th and 19th centuries. Traditionally an area of settlement by French Creoles and Acadians, Opelousas is the center of zydeco music. It celebrates its heritage at the Creole Heritage Folklife Center, one of the destinations on the new Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. It is also the location of the Evangeline Downs Racetrack and Casino.
The city calls itself the spice capital of the world, with production and sale of seasonings such as Tony Chachere's products,[6] Targil Seasonings,[7] Savoie's cajun meats and products,[8] and LouAna Cooking Oil. Opelousas was also home to one of the nation's two Yoohoo Factories until their closing.
During the tenure of Sheriff Cat Doucet from 1936 to 1940 and 1952 to 1968, that part of Opelousas along Highway 190 was a haven of gambling and prostitution. Doucet told historian Michael Kurtz that the return of Earl Long to the governorship in 1956 allowed him to bring back brothels and casinos and to guarantee the sheriff a take of the proceeds.[9]
As of the 2010 United States Census, 16,634 people resided in the city. The racial makeup of the city was 74.8% Black, 21.9% White, 0.3% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 0.2% from some other race and 1.0% from two or more races; 1.2% was Hispanic or Latino of any race.
More Cities of Interest in Louisiana
Business Results 1 - 10 of 15
0 Reviews 0 Reviews 0 Reviews 
2 Reviews 0 Reviews 0 Reviews 0 Reviews 0 Reviews 0 Reviews 0 Reviews 