Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Bluffton SC 29910 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Select a Radiology Tech College near Bluffton South Carolina

Bluffton SC x-ray tech internship program Congratulations on your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Bluffton SC in order to become a radiologic technologist. But now that you have decided to go into the rewarding field of healthcare, just how do you tackle picking the right college and program so that you will receive the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And since most states do mandate that radiology technicians become licensed, depending on where you subsequently work you might require training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s imperative that you research each of the colleges you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. A number of potential students begin by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and usually gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while cost and location should be considered, there are other critical qualifications as well. For instance, you should ask if the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they sponsor internship programs. These inquiries and others you must ask the colleges you are considering are presented later in this article. But first, let’s discuss what a radiologic tech does and the credentials and education choices that are offered.

Radiology Technician Occupation Description

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Regardless of the name, they all have the identical principal job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some elect to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for instance mammography. They may work in Bluffton SC 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 have to care for their equipment and frequently analyze its performance and safety. They are additionally expected to keep detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Bluffton SC medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

X-Ray Tech Degrees

x-ray machine in Bluffton SC The basic prerequisite for attending an x-ray 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 typical among techs, generally takes 18 months to two years to finish 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 expansive in nature. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be acceptable also. Something to consider is that Bluffton SC radiographer programs have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can typically be satisfied by participating in an externship program which many colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any licensing or certification requirements in South Carolina or the state you will be working as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Licensing and Certification

Once you have graduated from an Radiologist school, based on the state where you will be working you may have to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their criteria vary so check with your state. Currently, all states that do require licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but several provide other alternatives for testing also. Several states also call for certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. However, many Bluffton SC employers will only hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might improve your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their comprehensive exam. ARRT also calls for re-certification every 2 years, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.

Online X-Ray Tech Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Bluffton 29910 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 colleges. So although you can still earn your online degree, a significant portion of the training will be satisfied either in a college lab or in an externship off-campus. Practical training is often carried out in regional family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online portion of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Bluffton SC residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree usually discover that the online style of education is far more convenient with their active schedules. Plus online colleges are generally cheaper than conventional alternatives. In addition to lower tuition, expenses for study materials and commuting may be decreased as well. But just be sure that the online school you select is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then online classes may be the best option for you.

Points to Ask Radiographer Programs

After you have decided on the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can begin the process of searching for and evaluating Bluffton SC x-ray tech schools. You will also need to decide if you want to attend online classes or drive to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then naturally the location of the college will be relevant. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenditures will be a material factor also. But in addition to cost and location, what more should you consider when comparing schools? Well, you should find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you uncover some of these essential details before you make your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you should ask the programs you are assessing.

Are the Radiology Technician Colleges Accredited? A large number of radiology technician colleges have received some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still crucial to make sure that the school and program 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). Schools receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous examination 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 learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with guaranteeing a quality education, accreditation will also assist in securing financial assistance and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Bluffton SC employers will only hire graduates of an accredited program for entry-level positions.

Are Internships Offered? Ask if the South Carolina radiology tech colleges you are assessing have associations with area clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific means to get practical experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they can help graduates and students form professional relationships in the Bluffton SC healthcare community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the radiographer schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Bluffton SC healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.

Where is the School Located? For a number of students, the school they decide on will have to be within driving distance of their Bluffton SC home. Students who have chosen to attend online classes naturally will not have to trouble 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 even out of your local area, you may be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges commonly charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges normally charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

How Large are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of person that prefers to sit way in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will undoubtedly want a smaller class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Bluffton SC colleges you are researching what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate determination. This will also give you a chance to converse with some of the instructors and students to get their opinions regarding the x-ray technician program also.

Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer college you finally select can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly essential if you decide to continue working while attending school. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Bluffton SC, make sure that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, check if that is an option and how many credit hours or courses you would have to enroll in. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss due to illness, work or family emergencies.

Why Did You Decide to Be an X-Ray Tech?

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's helpful to consider questions you might be asked. One of the things that recruiters frequently ask radiographer applicants is "What compelled you to choose radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is trying to uncover is not only the personal reasons you may have for being a radiology technician, but also what characteristics and skills you possess that make you exceptional at your profession. You will likely be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, as well as a certain number of general interview questions, so you must organize a number of approaches about how you would like to respond to them. Because there are so many variables that go into choosing a career, you can answer this fundamental question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work interests you in addition to the strengths you have that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the ideal choice for the position. Don't try to memorize a response, but take down a few concepts and topics that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Going over sample answers can help you to formulate your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to include to wow the interviewer.

Select the Right X-Ray Technician College near Bluffton SC

Selecting the best radiology technician degree program is a critical first step toward launching a gratifying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs typically stand for the majority of the workday and position and in some cases lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to comply with the safety guidelines designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a good work environment and provide the best available patient care. As has been addressed in this report, there are several questions that you should ask each school you are reviewing before making your ultimate decision. This is just as true whether you enroll in an online program or travel to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each school so you can focus your options and make your decision. And with the proper education and your commitment to succeed, you can reach your goal to practice as a radiographer in Bluffton SC.

Some Background on Bluffton South Carolina

Bluffton, South Carolina

Bluffton is a Lowcountry town in Beaufort County, South Carolina, United States. It is primarily located around U.S. Route 278, between Hilton Head Island and Interstate 95. The town's original one square mile area, now known as Old Town, is situated on a bluff along the May River. The population was counted by the 2010 census at 12,893.[2] Bluffton is the fastest growing municipality in South Carolina with a population over 2,500, growing 882.7% between the 2000 and 2010 census.[3] Bluffton is the fifth largest municipality in South Carolina by land area.[4] The town is a primary city within the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Beaufort, SC Metropolitan Statistical Area. Bluffton is known for its eclectic Old Town district and natural views of the May River. It has been called "the last true coastal village of the South."[5][6]

Following the Tariff of 1842, Bluffton became a hotbed of separatist sentiment. In 1844 the Bluffton Movement, a protest against federal taxes, gave birth to the secession movement and led South Carolina to be the first state to leave the Union. In the antebellum period Bluffton became a popular location for wealthy merchants and plantation owners. During the Civil War two-thirds of the town was destroyed by fire during the Union's Bluffton Expedition on June 4, 1863.[7]

During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the area comprising southern Beaufort County was known as Granville County of St. Luke's Parish. The Yamasee people were invited to settle in the area by Lord Cardoss, leader of the nearby Scottish settlement in Beaufort. The Yamasee established ten towns with over 1,200 inhabitants in the area. In 1715, the Yamasee War broke out, and after several years of fighting, the Yamasee migrated to Florida, opening the "Indian Lands" to European settlement. In 1718, the Lords Proprietors carved the area into several new baronies, including the Devil's Elbow Barony that contained the future town of Bluffton. The first titled owner of the land was the Barbadian planter Sir John Colleton. Following the departure of the Yamasee people, colonists began building plantations in the Bluffton area in 1728. The Colletons prospered by growing cotton, corn and indigo.[8]

Before his death in 1776, Sir John Colleton (grandson of the original owner) developed plantations near Victoria Bluff - Foot Point areas and later disposed of much of his barony, much of it bought by the Rose and Kirk families.[8] These plantations were destroyed by the British under General Prévost in 1779.[9] During the 18th century, much of the land south of the May River (now known as Palmetto Bluff) was covered with rice fields.[10] Rice became a lucrative crop and a part of lowcountry culture until the early 20th century when it was disrupted by a series of devastating storms.[11]

The town of Bluffton was eventually built on two adjoining parcels in the Devil's Elbow Barony purchased by Benjamin Walls and James Kirk. The first homes were constructed during the early 1800s by area plantation owners seeking the high ground and cool river breezes as an escape from the unhealthy conditions present on Lowcountry rice and cotton plantations. Easy access by water provided more incentive for expansion, and the many tidal coves afforded excellent locations for residences. The community was originally known as "Kirk's Landing" or "Kirk's Bluff" as shown in Mill's Atlas of 1825. The first streets were formally laid out during the 1830s and the name of Bluffton decided upon in the early 1840s as a compromise between the Kirk and Pope families.