Radiologic Technologist Careers Information
Radiologic technologists (sometimes called radiographers or x-ray technologists) are specialists in a particular kind of medical imaging technology. In addition to good old-fashioned x-rays, some radiologic technologists conduct types of imaging that require introduction of certain chemical solutions, or even take sets of many x-rays in order to create a composite three-dimensional image.
Radiologic Technologist Careers & Degrees
- Concorde Career College: Aurora
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRIs, are another common scan performed by radiologic technologists. Whatever their particular duties, radiologic technologists must prepare patients for x-ray technology, including taking significant steps to protect both the patients and themselves from the effects of radiation. They must also possess enough training and expertise to produce images of useful quality and present them to doctors, and assist in diagnoses.
Radiologic Technologist Careers Path
Radiologic Technologists most often hold specialized Associate’s degrees. Those looking to move up to supervisory and management positions will often hold Bachelor’s or even Master’s degrees. Once aspiring Radiologic Technologists have graduated from an accredited program, they must pass an exam in order to be certified. Certification is run by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, either directly or through programs run by individual states.
Radiologic Technologist Careers: Compatible Personality Traits
Careful, charismatic, attentive, perceptive, diligent, prepared, composed, perceptive, quick-learning, technologically-minded.
Radiologic Technologist Interview
Read More by a Radiologic Technologist…
Radiologic Technologist Careers: Salary Expectations
The annual median salary for radiologic technologists is $52,210, although entry-level technologists should expect to earn less than that. There are strong possibilities for advancement, both into specialties and into other medical imaging professions, such as nuclear medicine.
Radiologic Technologist Careers: Job Outlook
As the American population ages, the demand for medical imaging technologies should increase. Furthermore, as new developments in digital imaging technology come down in price, they should be used by healthcare providers on a more widespread basis. The Department of Labor estimates that employment for Radiologic technologists will grow by 17% by 2018.
Radiologic Technologist Associations and Resources
Slightly Off the Footpath
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Nuclear Medicine Technician
- Registered Nurse
- Medical Assistant
- Cardiovascular Sonography Technician
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Psychologists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos105.htm (visited November 1, 2011).
