Choosing between a career as a teacher or radiology technician can be a tough decision. Each has positives and negatives, leaving you to determine what is most important to you. Considering the education required, salary, hours, location, job security and work environment may help you determine which is best suited for you personally.
Education
The education required to become a basic radiology technician involves two years at a community college. At that time, you can further your certifications for ultrasound, cat scans, etc., which can vary in additional schooling. The minimum amount of school to become a teacher is a four-year degree. Decide how many years of schooling you want to put into your career first and foremost.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for a teacher starts at a base amount and accrues annually (if budgets allow), while a radiology technician's salary is based on the certifications held and your ability to work over-time, varying shifts and holidays. This can substantially increase your income to surpass a 25-year teaching veteran. In regards to benefits, teachers are usually on a state system as a teacher, while radiology techs are usually on a private one.
Hours
As a teacher, working 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for 10 months of the year will be common place, with the guarantee of two months of the year off. As a radiology technician, your shifts may vary and your time off will be far less.
Location
Location is imperative to your career choice. If you want to live in a very rural area, then a radiology tech may not be the best choice depending on whether a hospital is located nearby. On the other hand, almost every community has a school that employs teachers.
Job Security
While most teaching jobs are secure, it has become obvious during times of economic recession that the medical field is even more secure. Job growth in the medical field is expected to continue at an all-time high. If you do decide to become a teacher, it is best to prepare for a core field that is not in danger of being eliminated.
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