How to Choose an Xray Technician Degree Program near Rockingham North Carolina
Congrats on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Rockingham NC so you can become a radiology technologist. But now that you have made a decision to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, just how do you tackle selecting the ideal school and program so that you will obtain the proper training to become a skilled practitioner? And since the majority of states do mandate that x-ray technicians become licensed, based on where you ultimately practice you may need 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 evaluate each program. Most students begin by searching for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and usually settle on the most affordable cost. But while location and cost should be taken into account, there are additional important qualifiers as well. For instance, you should find out whether or not the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internship programs. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are examining are provided later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray tech does and the degrees and training options that are offered.
Radiology Tech Career Description
There are several professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. Regardless of the name, each has the identical major job function, which is to employ imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some opt to work as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, such as mammography. They may work in Rockingham NC clinics, hospitals, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech 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 maintain their equipment plus frequently assess its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to retain complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Rockingham NC health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
X-Ray Technician Degrees Offered
The primary requirement for attending a radiology tech college is to have earned a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the choice to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among technicians, generally requires 18 months to 2 years to complete depending on 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. Most students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be acceptable as well. Something to consider is that Rockingham NC radiographer programs 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 offer through local clinics and hospitals in their region. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing requirements in North Carolina or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.
X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing
Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech school, depending on the state where you will be working you may have to become licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their prerequisites differ so get in touch with your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensing will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the purpose of licensing, but several accept additional alternatives for testing as well. Several states also require certification as a component of the licensing process, if not it is optional. Having said that, many Rockingham NC employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it may enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.
Online Radiology Technician Degrees
As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree programs. So although you can still obtain your online degree, a significant portion of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an internship off campus. Practical training is often carried out in area family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online segment of the training can be attended in the comfort of your Rockingham NC residence. Students who continue working while earning their degree typically find that the online approach to education is far more convenient with their busy schedules. Plus online programs are often less costly than traditional alternatives. Along with lower tuition, expenditures for study materials and commuting may be decreased also. But just be sure that the online college you enroll in is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online school may be the right choice for you.
Questions to Ask X Ray Tech Programs
After you have decided on the kind of degree that you want to obtain, you can start the process of locating and evaluating Rockingham NC x-ray technician colleges. You will also need to decide if you prefer to attend online classes or drive to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be important. The price of tuition and ancillary expenses will be an important variable as well. But along with location and cost, what else should you factor in when reviewing schools? Well, you should find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these important details prior to making your decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you must ask the schools you are considering.
Are the X-Ray Tech Schools Accredited? Most radiology tech colleges have received some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Nevertheless, it’s still important to verify that the program and school 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). Programs earning accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a detailed evaluation of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it can also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a quality education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are many times not available for non-accredited programs. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Rockingham NC employers will only hire graduates of an accredited college for entry level jobs.
Are Internship Programs Offered? Inquire if the North Carolina xray tech programs you are reviewing have associations with local clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent means to obtain practical training in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may help students and graduates establish professional connections in the Rockingham NC healthcare community and assist with obtaining employment.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the radiographer programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Rockingham NC healthcare employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the College Located? For a lot of students, the college they pick will need to be within travelling distance of their Rockingham NC home. Individuals who have opted to attend classes online obviously will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of concern. Something to keep in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a program that is out of state or even 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 commonly charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.
How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of person that likes to sit far in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will likely want a small class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Rockingham NC schools you are researching what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate determination. This will also give you an opportunity to converse with a few of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology tech program also.
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 crucial if you choose to continue working while attending classes. If you need to schedule night or weekend classes in Rockingham NC, verify that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, check if that is an alternative and how many courses or credit hours you would have to carry. Also, find out what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss due to illness, work or family obligations.
Why Did You Choose to Be a Radiologic Technologist?
When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's a good idea to review questions you might be asked. One of the things that interviewers frequently ask radiographer applicants is "What drove you to choose radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is trying to uncover is not merely the personal reasons you may have for becoming an Xray technician, but also what attributes and skills you have that make you exceptional at what you do. You will likely be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, in addition to a certain number of standard interview questions, so you need to organize a number of approaches about how you would like to respond to them. Since there are so many factors that go into selecting a career, you can address this fundamental question in a variety of ways. When formulating an answer, try to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the abilities you possess that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the position. Don't try to memorize an answer, but take down several concepts and talking points that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Reviewing sample answers can help you to formulate your own concepts, and provide ideas of what to include to wow the recruiter.Choose the Ideal X-Ray Technician School near Rockingham NC
Selecting the best x-ray tech college is a critical first step toward beginning a gratifying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical condition. Radiology techs often stand for the majority of the working day and position and sometimes lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to comply with the safety requirements developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and provide the best available care to patients. As we have discussed in this article, there are a number of questions that you should ask each school you are considering prior to making your ultimate selection. This is equally true whether you opt for an online program or commute to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each school so you can narrow down your options before making your final choice. And with the proper training and your commitment to be successful, you can realize your goal to work as a radiologic technologist in Rockingham NC.
Some Background on Rockingham North Carolina
Rockingham County, North Carolina
Rockingham County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of the 2010 census, the population was 93,643.[1] Its county seat is Wentworth.[2] The county is known as "North Carolina's North Star."
Rockingham County is included in the Greensboro-High Point, NC Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is also included in the Greensboro-Winston-Salem-High Point, NC Combined Statistical Area.
Between 1728-1733, the Dan River Valley was surveyed by William Byrd II. He soon thereafter purchased 20,000 acres of the land, attracting prospective farmers. The region's first western settlers came from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia and were of German, English, Scottish, and Irish descent.[3] The county was officially formed in 1785 from Guilford County. It was named for Charles Watson-Wentworth, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, British Prime Minister from 1765 to 1766 and again in 1782. Rockingham's administration was dominated by the American issue. Rockingham wished for repeal of the Stamp Act 1765 and won a Commons vote on the repeal resolution by 275 to 167 in 1766.[4] This made him a popular figure among British colonials in America, who would later become known as "Americans". People in North Carolina were still fond of him in the years following the independence of the United States.
By the early 19th century a network of grist mills had been established along the Dan and Smith rivers. The textile industry was founded in 1813 with construction of the first cotton mill at the junction of the Dan and Smith rivers. Founded by John M. Morehead, it was one of the first cotton mills in the state.[3] The county was the location for the Searcy & Moore arms factory, which was at Hogans Creek, a small village 20 miles northwest of Greensboro. The factory produced firearms called the "N.C. Rifle" for the Confederate States of America forces during the Civil War. Owned by Alexander M. Searcy and Dr. J. S. Moore, the small factory made hundreds of rifles for the South between 1862 and 1863. The town of Stoneville was incorporated in 1877. Francis Henry Fries later establish several mill sites in the region, with the construction of the Mayo Mills plant in 1895 in the village of Mayodan and another site in what became the town of Avalon in 1899.[3][5][6] In 1911 a large fire destroyed the Avalon Mill.[7] The town was soon thereafter abandoned and its workers were transferred to Mayodan, while some of the other residents relocated to Stoneville. The 60 or so Avalon company houses were put on logs and rolled by mules and horses to Mayodan, where some still stand.[3] The only remains in Avalon are the mill's powerhouse, railroad tracks, and the dam works. The Mayo Mill, which was later called the Washington Mills-Mayodan Plant, closed in 1999.[5]
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 573 square miles (1,480 km2), of which 566 square miles (1,470 km2) is land and 7.2 square miles (19 km2) (1.2%) is water.[8]
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