You can become a radiology practitioner assistant after becoming a radiology technologist..
Radiology practitioner assistant (RPA) is a designation given radiology technologists who complete an extended educational program and attain the proper certification. RPAs perform a range of tasks, including invasive radiologic procedures, preliminary test analysis and fluoroscopic procedures. To become an RPA, you must first earn an accredited degree in radiography or radiology technology and attain certification under the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). This is followed by a specialized radiologic science degree program and successful completion of the national certification examination administered by the Certification Board for Radiology Practitioner Assistants. According to the certification board and the Society of Radiology Physician Extenders, there are currently three formally recognized and accredited RPA training programs in the United States.
Bachelor of Science in Radiology Practitioner Assisting
The Department of Radiologic Sciences at Weber State University offers a bachelor of science degree in radiologic sciences with a radiology practitioner assistant concentration. Applicants must be ARRT-registered and have at least three years of work experience providing radiology services under the supervision of a professional radiologist. Students must complete general education courses and acquire certification in advanced cardiac life support before beginning their studies. This 5-semester program is 20 months in duration and consists of coursework in psycho-social medicine, patient care and assessment, ethics, clinical information management, fluoroscopy, invasive imaging, clinical applications and evaluation for the osseous system, chest, abdomen, GI system, genitourinary systems and facial structures. The majority of these requirements are available through online modules and email communications, with approximately ten intensive classroom sessions held on-campus twice each semester.
Department of Radiologic Sciences
Weber State University
3925 University Circle
Ogden, UT 84408-3925
801-626-6000
weber.edu
Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences
Midwestern State University offers a bachelor of science degree in radiologic science for radiology practitioner assistants. Courses are delivered through online assignments, projects, tests and discussion boards. Applicants must be certified by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board or the ARRT or be in the second year of an accredited radiologic science program. Candidates must also have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on all previous post-secondary coursework in order be considered for admission. In addition to general education courses in political science, English, history, math, statistics and the humanities, this program consists of specialized instruction in pathophysiology, radiobiology, clinical skills, quality assurance and research methods. Optional courses include radiation therapy, medical imaging, bone densitometry, ultrasound, computed tomography, MRI, mammography, practicum training and a professional internship.
Radiologic Sciences Department
Midwestern State University
3410 Taft Blvd.
Wichita Falls, TX 76308-2099
866-575-4305
mwsu.edu
Masters of Science in Radiologist Assisting
Midwestern State University also offers a master of science degree in radiologic science with a radiologist assistant major. This program combines online learning with clinical practice and on-campus seminars. Applicants must hold a bachelor of science degree in radiologic science or radiology technology that includes a basic statistics or research methods course. At least one year of professional experience in radiography, radiation therapy, nuclear medicine or sonography and ARRT certification is also required. Coursework includes medical trends and law, patient interactions, invasive procedures, chest procedures, GI and musculoskeletal procedures, research methods and clinical applications.
Radiologic Sciences Department
Midwestern State University
3410 Taft Blvd.
Wichita Falls, TX 76308-2099
866-575-4305
mwsu.edu
Tags: State University, radiologic science, Radiologic Sciences, science degree, degree radiologic, Midwestern State
