Becoming a Radiologic Technologist

What is a Radiographic Technologist?

A radiographic technologist operates a wide variety of equipment used in producing x-rays and other images that healthcare professionals such as doctors and nurses can use for the diagnosis of disease. A large part of a career as a radiographic technologist requires preparing patients for x-rays to be taken, explaining and comforting patients through the process and ultimately ensuring that a high-quality x-ray is taken. Ultimately you are often responsible for the initial evaluation of x-ray images as well.

How to Become a Radiologic Technologist: The Required Degrees for a Radiologic Technologist

The majority of radiologic technologists get their training by following a two-year program for a certificate or an associate’s degree. Others will complete a four-year bachelor’s degree or a master’s. Keep in mind that any school you attend for a radiologic technology degree must be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Nearly all radiologic technologists will need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam before being allowed to practice. You can also complete a voluntary certification through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, which can improve your resume when it comes to getting a job as a radiologic technologist.

Radiologic Technologist Salary and Jobs: How much money do Radiologic Technologists make?

An average radiologic technologist can expect to earn a salary of around $48,000. For those just starting out, salaries are closer to $32,000, while highly experienced radiologic technologists can earn as much as $69,000. The current job market for radiologic techs is strongly in favor of employees, and radiologic technologists can choose to work in hospitals, clinics, assisted living facilities, and numerous other medical locations. As a whole x-ray technologists are in high demand, and the radiologic technologist career path is expected to do well as the population ages and requires more diagnosic imaging. In fact, radiologic technologist positions are expected to increase by about 15 percent in the next several years. This is a significantly faster growth than most other occupations. Overall, radiologic technologists can expect a promising and lucrativefuture.