AS-Radiolog Sci 2 yr

Practitioners in radiologic sciences are highly skilled educated professionals who provide radiographic images of the human body to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease or injury. This practice requires development of cognitive skills, technological skills, and effective communication and interpersonal skills that will assist the individual in this profession.

The Radiologic Sciences Program, fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, is 24 months in length. The first year is primarily didactic, with emphasis on required academic courses and introductory courses in radiologic sciences, including a clinical rotation. The professional component, which is 15 months in length, combines extensive clinical rotations with professional coursework. Clinical competency is verified through faculty assessment of student’s skill level in actual performance of radiologic examinations. Students enrolled in the program must maintain an overall grade point average of 2.5. All Radiologic Science courses and required Anatomy and Physiology courses must be completed with a C or better to continue to the next sequenced professional course.

The Associate Degree fulfills the eligibility requirements for the national certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Upon certification, graduates may find employment in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, and physician offices. With additional education and training, the following career paths can be pursued: computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, cardiovascular imaging, interventional imaging, management, and education.

Prospective students should be aware that to successfully complete this program they will be required to perform certain physical functions in course work and/or clinical education. The following physical standards describe the physical abilities necessary to complete the program:

Physical Standards

1. Lift, assist and maneuver patients in wheelchairs, on stretchers and imaging tables (weight can vary from 20 lbs. to greater than 100 lbs.).

2. Manipulate, lift, move, and push heavy equipment (must be able to extend arms overhead and forward).

3. To ensure patient safety, hear faint sounds from a distance of 15 feet, as control panels and exposure switches are located in rooms or paneled areas separate from the x-ray table on which patients are placed.

4. Hear verbal directions/requests from physicians, patients, etc.; hear faint audible signals such as low sounding buzzers and bells to determine and recognize malfunctioning equipment.

5. See requisitions/computer screens for medical information pertaining to radiographic exams, proper equipment manipulation, proper positioning, and image evaluation of exams.

6. Manual dexterity, good motor skills, eye-hand coordination skills, and sensory function to perform skills such as taking a pulse, assisting with sterile procedures, manipulating equipment, etc.

7. Cognitive ability to perceive and effectively manage any environmental threats, stress, and ability to function safely and efficiently during periods of high stress and ability to continue to function safely and effectively during periods of high stress.

8. Exhibit social skills necessary to interact effectively with patients, families, supervisors, co-workers and physicians of the same or different cultures.

9. Intellectual and emotional skills to exercise discretion in handling confidential medical information.

10. Prioritize multiple tasks.

11. Maintain personal hygiene.

12. Must be of sufficient health to meet the criteria of clinical affiliates.