How to Pick a Radiologic Technician Degree Program near Bucksport Maine
Congrats regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Bucksport ME so you can learn to be a radiologic technician. But now that you have decided to enter the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you go about picking the right school and program so that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a qualified practitioner? And considering that the majority of states do require that radiology technicians become licensed, based on where you ultimately work you might require preparation to pass a licensing examination. So it’s essential that you investigate each of the colleges you are looking at so that you can compare each program. A number of students start by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and frequently gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location need to be taken into consideration, there are additional critical qualifiers also. For example, you need to ask if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you should ask the schools you are considering are presented later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a radiology technician does and the credentials and training options that are available.
Radiology Tech Career Summary
There are several professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, they all have the same principal job description, 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. Some opt to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for example mammography. They can work in Bucksport ME hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech might utilize 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 also regularly analyze its performance and safety. They are additionally required to keep complete records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Bucksport ME health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
Radiology Technician Degrees Available
The basic requirement for attending a radiology tech school is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the choice to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among technicians, generally requires 18 months to 2 years to finish depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at as much as four years to finish and is more expansive in scope. Most students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that are acceptable also. One thing to keep in mind is that Bucksport ME radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It can typically be fulfilled by taking part in an externship program which a large number of colleges sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any certification or licensing mandates in Maine or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.
Radiographer Certification and Licensing
Once you have graduated from an Radiologist program, depending on the state where you will be working you may have to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their criteria vary so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensing will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but several approve additional alternatives for testing as well. Some states also require certification as a component of the licensing process, if not it is voluntary. However, numerous Bucksport ME employers will only hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it could enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also requires re-certification every other year, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.
Online X-Ray Tech Degrees
As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree programs. So while you can still earn your online degree, a substantial portion of the training will be satisfied either in a college lab or in an internship off campus. Practical training is often provided in area family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online section of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Bucksport ME home. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree usually discover that the online style of learning is far more practical with their active schedules. Plus online colleges are often less costly than traditional options. Along with lower tuition, expenses for study materials and commuting can be decreased as well. But just confirm that the online college you select 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 Radiologic Tech Colleges
After you have selected the kind of degree that you would like to obtain, you can begin the process of locating and assessing Bucksport ME x-ray tech schools. You will also need to decide if you prefer to attend online classes or commute to a nearby campus. If you choose the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be relevant. The cost of tuition and secondary expenses will be an important variable also. But in addition to cost and location, what else should you factor in when evaluating colleges? Well, you should find 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 selection, we have assembled a list of questions that you must ask the programs you are looking at.
Are the Radiology Technician Schools Accredited? A large number of radiology tech colleges have received some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. Even so, it’s still crucial to verify that the school and program are accredited. One of the most highly respected accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous review of their instructors and course materials. If the school is online it may also receive 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 superior education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not accessible for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And numerous Bucksport ME health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry-level openings.
Are Internship Programs Provided? Inquire if the Maine radiology technician programs you are interested in have relationships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a great way to receive hands on training in a clinical setting, they are also a means to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may help students and graduates form professional relationships in the Bucksport ME healthcare community and help with job placement.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the x-ray tech schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Bucksport ME healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the College Located? For many students, the school they select will need to be within driving distance of their Bucksport ME residence. Those who have chosen to attend classes online naturally will not have to worry 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 choose to enroll in a college that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you may be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges usually charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges typically charge a higher tuition for those students that don’t reside within their districts.
How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of person that likes to sit far in the rear of class or get lost in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Smaller classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Bucksport ME schools you are reviewing 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 an opportunity to speak with a few of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the x-ray tech program as well.
Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer program you finally select can provide the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you choose to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Bucksport ME, make sure that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, ask what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss due to illness, work or family obligations.
Why Did You Choose to Become an X-Ray Tech?
When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's helpful to consider questions you may be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers often ask radiographer prospects is "What compelled you to select radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is hoping to discover is not merely the private reasons you may have for becoming an Xray technician, but additionally what characteristics and skills you have that make you outstanding at your profession. You will likely be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, in addition to a certain number of typical interview questions, so you should organize some strategies about how you would like to address them. Considering there are several factors that go into selecting a career, you can address this fundamental question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, attempt to include the reasons the profession appeals to you along with the abilities you have that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the position. Don't try to memorize an answer, but take down a few ideas and anecdotes that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Going over sample responses can assist you to formulate your own thoughts, and inspire ideas of what to include to enthuse the recruiter.Choose the Right X-Ray Technician Program near Bucksport ME
Picking the right x-ray tech college is a crucial first step toward initiating a fulfilling new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer must be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs often stand for the majority of the workday and position and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Prospects must also show an ability to pay close attention to detail and to follow the safety guidelines developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and deliver the best possible patient care. As we have addressed in this post, there are several questions that you need to ask each school you are looking at before making your ultimate decision. This is equally true whether you opt for an online program or travel to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can examine and compare each school so you can narrow down your options and make your decision. And with the appropriate training and your dedication to succeed, you can realize your goal to practice as a radiologic technologist in Bucksport ME.
Some Background on Bucksport Maine
Bucksport, Maine
Bucksport is a town in Hancock County, Maine, United States. The population was 4,924 at the 2010 census. Bucksport is a historic town across the Penobscot River estuary from Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, which replaced the Waldo–Hancock Bridge.
The first inhabitants of Bucksport were a 5,000-year-old prehistoric culture known as the Red Paint People, that would later be referred to as the Maritime Archaic. They were thought to be a highly advanced native fishing culture that buried red paint in their graves along with stone tools and weapons. The first archaeological dig in the state of Maine, if not the entire United States, was initiated by Professor Charles Willoughby in 1891 on Indian Point, on a site where the present-day mill is located.[4]
Once territory of the Tarrantine (now called Penobscot) Abenaki Native Americans, it was one of six townships granted by the Massachusetts General Court to Deacon David Marsh of Haverhill, Massachusetts and 351 others. Colonel Jonathan Buck and a number of the grantees arrived in 1762 to survey the land, then returned to Haverhill. In June 1763, Buck came back to settle permanently what was known as Plantation No. 1, building a sawmill on Mill Creek, as well as a house and store. By 1775 the plantation had 21 families.[5] Legend has it that Buck burned his mistress for being a witch, and that she promised to return and seek vengeance on the town. It is believed to be her foot and leg that appears on his tombstone, reappearing each time it has been replaced.[6][7]
During the Revolutionary War, the British military built Fort George at Castine. On April 14, 1779, the stronghold became the site of a major American naval defeat called the Penobscot Expedition. The following day, when most of Plantation No. 1 was deserted, the 16-gun Royal Navy sloop HMS Nautilus anchored at the harbor. Its crew burned the town, sparing only those remaining inhabitants who swore allegiance to the Crown. But following the peace treaty of 1783, the town was resettled and called Buckstown Plantation after its founder. Incorporated on June 27, 1792 as Buckstown, it was renamed Bucksport in 1817.[5] The town was occupied by the British during the War of 1812. In 1851, the East Maine Conference Seminary was opened by the Methodist Church as a preparatory school, but closed in 1933 when Bucksport opened its first public secondary school.[8]
In 1780, the Jed Prouty Tavern and Inn was built in downtown Bucksport. It was expanded to a 17-room hotel around 1820. It is now being turned into a nursing home for the elderly.
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