Get the proper education and certification to become a radiography tech.
A career in radiography entitles you to administer medical imaging and work with X-rays. A successful career as a radiography technician lies heavily in the the proper amount of education, certification and experience. The coursework is known to be rather challenging, but a radiography license can be obtained in a shorter amount of time than many other professions in the medical field. Careful preparation and dedication will be key factors in becoming a radiography technician.
Instructions
1. Build a solid academic foundation by studying relative life sciences in high school, such as biology, chemistry, anatomy and physical education. Seek the guidance of a school counselor who can help you determine which courses would prepare you for a career in radiography.
2. Apply to a 1-4 year program in radiography or radiation therapy that provides both classroom and clinical instruction. Visit rtstudents.com to research schools that might interest you. Tuition cost, location, prerequisites and admission criteria are options you will want to consider before coming to a decision.
3. Complete the coursework and clinical requirements. Clinicals enable you to gain hands-on experience in radiology labs at different healthcare facilities. Most medical imaging schools offer an associate's degree to technician students upon completion of at least a two-year course.
4. Take the national certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to improve your chances of becoming a licensed radiographer. Though not mandatory, it is required in 36 states. Examinations are offered in radiography and radiation therapy.
5. Receive your license after successfully passing the exam and you will become a certified radiology technician. Remember to renew your license every two years by completing the required 24 hours of continued education.
Tags: career radiography, education certification, medical imaging, radiation therapy, radiography radiation, radiography radiation therapy, radiography technician