Colleges and universities offer a variety of degrees in radiology.
Radiology encompasses a wide range of study that includes certificate to doctoral degree programs. The name of the degree is not standardized and depends on the preference of the educational institution. Common names include "Radiology," "Radiologic Technology," "Radiologic Sciences," "X-ray Technology," "Radiography," and "Pre-Radiology."
Associate of Science (AS) and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degrees
Two-year colleges offer associate degrees for students of radiology. The AS and AAS degrees prepare the graduate to work as a radiographer after successfully completing a nationally recognized registration examination. A pre-radiology AA degree prepares the student to enter a bachelor of science (BS) degree program in radiology.
BS in Radiology
BS radiology programs prepare the graduate to work in, typically, one of three specialty areas: advanced imaging, radiology administration or education. Advanced imaging includes modalities such as computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and sonography. With a BS in radiology administration, the graduate can work as a radiology department director for a hospital or medical diagnostic facility. The BS radiology education degree prepares the graduate to teach student radiographers in an educational institution.
MS and Ph.D. Programs in Radiology
Before the 21st century, few colleges offered MS radiology programs. The emerging career field of radiology assisting has increased the demand for graduate-level programs. The radiologist's assistant performs many duties of the radiologist (doctor who specializes in radiology). Radiation physicists who protect patients, the public, and radiation workers by monitoring and controlling the use of radiation also are typically required to have an MS in radiology. Ph.D. programs are offered to doctors who wish to work as radiologists.
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