How to Pick a Radiology Tech School near Houghton Lake Michigan
Congratulations on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Houghton Lake MI in order to become a radiology technician. But now that you have made a decision to enter the rewarding field of healthcare, exactly how do you go about selecting the ideal school and program so that you will receive the appropriate training to become a skilled professional? And because most states do mandate that x-ray technicians become licensed, based on where you subsequently practice you may require preparation to pass a licensing test. So it’s essential that you assess each of the colleges you are considering in order to compare each program. A number of potential students begin by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and often gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while location and cost must be considered, there are additional important qualifications as well. For instance, you should find out if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internship programs. These inquiries and others you must ask the schools you are reviewing are provided later in this article. But first, let’s explore what a radiology tech does and the credentials and training choices that are available.
Radiology Technician Work Summary
There are several professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be referred to as radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. No matter what the name, they all have the same 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. Some choose to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, such as mammography. They can work in Houghton Lake MI clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician 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 frequently evaluate its functionality and safety. They are also expected to keep complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Houghton Lake MI medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
Radiology Tech Degrees Available
The standard prerequisite for enrolling in an x-ray tech program is to have attained 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 typical among techs, normally takes 18 months to two years to finish based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to four years to complete and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other similar majors that may be appropriate as well. One thing to bear in mind is that Houghton Lake MI radiographer programs have a clinical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It can typically be fulfilled by taking part in an externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local clinics and hospitals in their area. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Michigan or the state you will be working as applicable.
Radiographer Licensing and Certification
When you have graduated from an x-ray technician college, based on the state where you will be employed you may have to be licensed. The majority of states do mandate licensing, and their criteria vary so check with your state. Currently, all states that do mandate licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but a number offer other alternatives for testing also. Several states also require certification as a component of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. However, many Houghton Lake MI employers favor hiring radiology techs that are certified so it may enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also calls for re-certification every other year, which may be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.
Online Radiology Technician Programs
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 schools. So while you can still obtain your degree online, a large portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a college lab or in an internship off campus. Clinical training is typically performed in local hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training can be accessed in the privacy of your Houghton Lake MI home. Students who keep working while earning their degree usually discover that the online style of learning is far more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are often less expensive than on-campus options. Along with reduced tuition, expenditures for study materials and commuting may be reduced also. But just confirm that the online school you pick is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are disciplined enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then online classes may be the best option for you.
What to Ask Radiographer Schools
When you have decided on the type of degree that you would like to obtain, you can start the process of locating and assessing Houghton Lake MI x-ray technician schools. You will also have to decide if you prefer to attend classes online or commute to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the school will be critical. The price of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a determining factor as well. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you look at when evaluating schools? Well, you should find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you learn some of these crucial details before you make your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are looking at.
Are the X-Ray Tech Colleges Accredited? Most xray technician colleges have acquired some type of accreditation, whether national or regional. Nevertheless, it’s still imperative to make sure that the program and school 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 receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through an extensive assessment of their instructors and educational materials. If the program is online it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. All accrediting agencies should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a premium education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are many times not offered for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And many Houghton Lake MI health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited program for entry level positions.
Are Internships Provided? Ask if the Michigan xray tech schools you are evaluating have partnerships with area clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only a terrific means to obtain practical training in a clinical environment, they are additionally a means to satisfy the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can assist students and graduates establish professional connections in the Houghton Lake MI medical community and assist with obtaining employment.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the x-ray tech schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Houghton Lake MI healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Program Located? For a number of students, the college they pick will need to be within driving distance of their Houghton Lake MI residence. Individuals who have chosen to attend online classes obviously 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 program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you may be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges typically charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges often charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.
How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of person that likes to sit far in the rear of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will probably prefer a smaller class size. Smaller classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Houghton Lake MI colleges you are considering what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classrooms. 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 opinions regarding the radiology technician program as well.
Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the x-ray tech college you ultimately choose can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you opt to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in Houghton Lake MI, verify that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, find out if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to enroll in. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss due to work, illness or family emergencies.
Why Did You Desire to Become a Radiologic Technologist?
When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's important to review questions you may be asked. One of the things that recruiters typically ask radiographer candidates is "What compelled you to decide on radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is attempting to uncover is not merely the personal reasons you may have for becoming a radiology technician, but additionally what characteristics and talents you possess that make you exceptional at what you do. You will likely be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, as well as a significant number of routine interview questions, so you need to ready some ideas about how you want to address them. Considering there are so many factors that go into choosing a career, you can respond to this primary question in a variety of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the profession appeals to you in addition to the talents you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the position. Don't try to memorize an answer, but take down some ideas and anecdotes that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample responses can help you to develop your own thoughts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to wow the recruiter.Pick the Best Radiology Technician Program near Houghton Lake MI
Selecting the right x-ray tech degree program is an important first step toward starting a satisfying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs typically stand for the greater part of the workday and position and at times lift the patient to get the proper image. Prospects must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to comply with the safety guidelines designed 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. Having social skills is a necessity in order to have a good work environment and furnish the best available patient care. As we have addressed in this article, there are a number of questions that you need to ask each college you are reviewing prior to making your final 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 evaluate and compare each program so you can focus your choices and make your final choice. And with the right education and your motivation to be successful, you can achieve your goal to practice as a radiographer in Houghton Lake MI.
Some Background on Houghton Lake Michigan
Houghton Lake, Michigan
Houghton Lake is an unincorporated community in Roscommon Township, Roscommon County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The Census Bureau has defined a census-designated place (CDP) for statistical purposes with the same name. The population was 3,749 at the 2000 census.
The community is situated on the southwest shore of Houghton Lake, Michigan's largest inland lake. The CDP includes the nearby community of Houghton Lake Heights, which is about one mile southwest along the shore of the lake. M-55 runs through both communities. The community of Prudenville is adjacent to the CDP on the east, at the southeast end of the lake. US 127 passes just west of the communities. A small portion of the CDP area extends into Lake Township to the north.
The Houghton Lake Area is a popular vacation spot in Northern Michigan, and is host to many resorts, events, and other tourist attractions. Tourism makes up a large part of the local economy. Houghton Lake is also a popular retirement location, with many retired residents known as "Snow Birds" who stay in Houghton Lake each year until winter.
The Houghton Lake area's first white settlers were said to be the Emery family in 1873. Augustus Emery, his wife, and their 7 children left their home in Chesaning, Michigan, and made their way on foot to an area three miles south of the lake via the well-known Saginaw Trail. It was here that Mr. Emery and his three sons, Augustus, Jr., 21, William, 19, and Harvey, 17, would construct the family home on 160 acres of homesteaded property.
Lumbering had a profound impact on the early development of Houghton Lake. In the mid-1800s, lumber camps in the area were abundant, and roads, towns, and railways were established to support the lumber trade. Logs were floated from Houghton Lake down the Muskegon River to sawmills and shipping facilities in Muskegon. It has been estimated that in 1860 alone, mills on the Muskegon River produced 75,000,000 board-feet of lumber.
More Cities of Interest in Michigan
Business Results 1 - 10 of 0
