by Laura Horwitz
Find Online Colleges Columnist

Do you want a good salary and job stability? The current shortage of radiologists and radiologic technicians have increased job opportunities and wages, and improved working conditions for many interested in radiology careers.

What is a Radiologic Technologist?

Also known as radiologic technicians or radiologists, radiologic technologists are healthcare workers in charge of taking X-rays, performing MRIs and CT-scans, and various other diagnostic tests. Radiologists must have good communication skills to explain the procedure to the patient, and they must be familiar with all the stages of testing. A radiology career involves working with equipment and patients, using proper protective radiation shielding, and developing exposed film. As a radiologic technologist gains experience, they may conduct more complex tests.

What Does Radiology Training Involve?

Employers tend to prefer candidates with formal training, which can last anywhere from 1 to 4 years depending on the program you choose. Typically, radiologic technicians undergo a 2-year associate’s degree program, although some prefer to earn a Bachelor’s of Science in radiology from a 4-year program. Thanks to the Internet revolution, you can even get an online degree in radiology, studying at your own pace, wherever it’s convenient for you.

Training for a radiology career includes coursework in:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Patient care procedures (including positioning of patients)
• Radiation physics and protection
• Principles of imaging
• Medical terminology and ethics
• Radiobiology

Radiology Career Outlook and Salary Ranges

In 2004, the median annual salary for radiologic technologists was $43,350, with the highest 10% earning more than $60,210. The highest wages can generally be found at medical and diagnostic laboratories.

Opportunities should be best for multi-skilled radiologists, especially those trained in complex diagnostic imaging procedures like MRIs and CT-scans. However, the current shortage in radiology means most people entering this career path should find excellent job opportunities and may be able to negotiate higher salaries and better working conditions for themselves.

About the Author

Laura Horwitz has worked as a freelance writer and researcher for five years in both London and the US, specializing in educational and career advice topics for the last year. Her articles have appeared in RH Review, Film Focus, 6 Degrees Film, and BizBash magazine.

Source(s)

“Radiologic Technologists and Technicians,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics