How to Select a Radiologic Technician Degree Program near Ypsilanti Michigan

Congratulations on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Ypsilanti MI in order to learn to be a radiology technician. And now that you have decided to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, exactly how do you go about choosing the ideal college and program so that you will receive the proper training to become a skilled professional? And since most states do mandate that radiology techs become licensed, depending on where you subsequently work you might require preparation to pass a licensing test. So it’s imperative that you investigate each of the schools you are looking at so that you can evaluate each program. Many prospective students begin by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and typically gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while cost and location must be considered, there are other important qualifications also. For instance, 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 evaluating are provided later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a x-ray technician does and the credentials and education options that are available.

Radiology Technician Work Description

There are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. No matter what the name, each has the same fundamental job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many opt to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for example mammography. They can practice in Ypsilanti MI hospitals, clinics, private 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 must take care of their equipment and routinely analyze its performance and safety. They are additionally required to retain complete records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Ypsilanti MI medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Tech Degrees

The standard prerequisite for attending an x-ray tech college is to have attained a high school diploma or GED. 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 technicians, generally takes 18 months to two years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at up to four years to finish and is more expansive in nature. Most students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be appropriate also. Something to bear in mind is that Ypsilanti MI radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may typically be fulfilled by participating in an externship program which many schools sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their region. After you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing requirements in Michigan or the state you will be working as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Licensing and Certification

Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech program, based on the state where you will be working you might have to be licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their requirements differ so get in touch with your state. Currently, all states that do require licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but several approve other options for testing also. A number of states also require certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. Having said that, many Ypsilanti MI employers would rather hire radiology techs that are certified so it may enhance your career options to become certified. 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 satisfied with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Tech Schools

As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have practical or lab training included in their course of study. This is no different for online degree programs. So although you can still earn your degree online, a large portion of the training will be completed either in a college 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 portion of the training may be attended in the privacy of your Ypsilanti MI home. Students who continue working while earning their degree usually find that the online style of learning is much more practical with their active schedules. Plus online schools are frequently cheaper than on-campus options. Along with reduced tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials can be lessened also. But just confirm that the online program you enroll in is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are disciplined enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then an online school may be the ideal choice for you.

What to Ask Radiology Tech Colleges

Once you have chosen the type of degree that you want to earn, you can initiate the process of looking for and evaluating Ypsilanti MI x-ray technician schools. You will also have to decide 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 important. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be a material factor as well. But along with location and cost, what else should you look at when comparing schools? Well, you need to check out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you uncover some of these essential details before you make your selection, we have compiled a list of questions that you need to ask the programs you are reviewing.

Are the X-Ray Technician Schools Accredited? The majority of radiology technician colleges have obtained some type of accreditation, whether national or regional. Nevertheless, it’s still imperative 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 detailed evaluation of their teachers and educational materials. If the program is online it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. 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 assist in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are often not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And many Ypsilanti MI employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited college for entry-level jobs.

Are Internships Offered? Ask if the Michigan radiology tech colleges you are interested in have associations with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent means to receive hands on training in a clinical environment, they are also a way to fulfill the practical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can help students and graduates form professional connections in the Ypsilanti MI healthcare community and help with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession 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. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Ypsilanti MI healthcare employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the College Located? For a number of students, the school they pick will have to be within commuting distance of their Ypsilanti MI residence. Those who have chosen to attend online classes naturally will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. Something to keep in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges usually charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of student 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 permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Ypsilanti MI schools you are looking at what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you a chance to talk with a few of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray tech program also.

Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you need to verify that the radiographer  college you finally choose can provide the class schedule you need. This is especially crucial if you opt to continue working while you attend classes. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in Ypsilanti MI, make certain that they are available. 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 might miss due to work, illness or family emergencies.

Why Did You Want to Be a Radiology Technician?

When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's advantageous to review questions you might be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers typically ask radiographer prospects is "What compelled you to choose radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is trying to learn is not only the private reasons you may have for becoming a radiology technician, but additionally what characteristics and abilities you possess that make you good at your profession. You will likely be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, along with a certain number of typical interview questions, so you need to ready several ideas about how you would like to address them. Because there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a multitude of ways. When preparing an answer, aim 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 make an effort to memorize a response, but jot down several ideas and anecdotes that relate to your personal strengths and experiences. Going over sample answers can help you to prepare your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to include to impress the recruiter.

Choose the Ideal X-Ray Technician College near Ypsilanti MI

Enrolling in the best x-ray technician degree program is a crucial first step toward initiating a satisfying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer should be in good physical shape. Radiology techs often stand for the greater part of the workday and position and at times lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay close attention to detail and to adhere to 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 radiologists and other doctors. Having social skills is a must in order to have a productive work environment and furnish the best possible patient care. As has been covered in this article, there are several questions that you should ask each school you are considering prior to making your final decision. 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 college so you can focus your options and make your decision. And with the proper education and your dedication to be successful, you can realize your goal to work as a x-ray tech in Ypsilanti MI.

Some Background on Ypsilanti Michigan

 

More Cities of Interest in Michigan

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Alto MI 49302

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Cass City MI 48726

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Caro MI 48723

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Flat Rock MI 48134

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Lakeville MI 48366

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Kingsford MI 49802

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Genesee MI 48437

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Sandusky MI 48471

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Durand MI 48429

Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Drayton Plains MI 48330