Memphis, Tennessee, is home to several institutions that offer radiology tech programs for individuals looking to pursue a career in this field. These programs provide students with the necessary education and training to become competent radiologic technologists.
Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers or X-ray technologists, play a crucial role in the medical field. They are responsible for operating imaging equipment to produce high-quality images of the body, which help physicians diagnose and treat various medical conditions.
Why Pursue a Career in Radiologic Technology?
Radiologic technology is a rewarding and in-demand career that offers many benefits. Here are some reasons why you may want to consider pursuing a career in this field:
- Job Stability: Radiologic technologists are in high demand, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment opportunities in this field will grow 7% from 2020 to 2030.
- Competitive Salary: Radiologic technologists are well-compensated, with median salaries ranging from $60,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience and location.
- Variety of Work: Radiologic technologists can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers, and can specialize in different modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Personal Satisfaction: Radiologic technologists have the opportunity to make a positive impact on patients' lives by helping to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
Radiology Tech Programs in Memphis, TN
Here are some institutions in Memphis, TN, that offer radiology tech programs:
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center: The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences degree program that prepares students to become competent radiologic technologists.
- Concorde Career College: Concorde Career College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology degree program that can be completed in as little as 24 months.
- Baptist College of Health Sciences: Baptist College of Health Sciences offers a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences degree program that prepares students to become radiologic technologists.
- Southwest Tennessee Community College: Southwest Tennessee Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology degree program that can be completed in as little as 24 months.
What to Expect from a Radiology Tech Program
Radiology tech programs typically include both classroom and clinical training. Here are some things you can expect to learn in a radiology tech program:
- Patient Assessment: Radiologic technologists must be able to assess patients' medical conditions and adjust imaging protocols accordingly.
- Imaging Modalities: Radiologic technologists must be familiar with various imaging modalities, including X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound.
- Radiation Safety: Radiologic technologists must understand the principles of radiation safety and be able to protect patients and themselves from excessive radiation exposure.
- Image Production: Radiologic technologists must be able to produce high-quality images of the body using imaging equipment.
Certification and Licensure
In Tennessee, radiologic technologists must be certified and licensed to practice. Here are some steps you can take to become certified and licensed:
- Certification: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers certification in various modalities, including X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound.
- Licensure: The Tennessee Department of Health requires radiologic technologists to be licensed to practice in the state.
Career Opportunities
Radiologic technologists can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers. Here are some career opportunities available to radiologic technologists:
- Staff Radiologic Technologist: Staff radiologic technologists work in hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers, producing images of the body using imaging equipment.
- CT Technologist: CT technologists specialize in computed tomography imaging and work in hospitals and imaging centers.
- MRI Technologist: MRI technologists specialize in magnetic resonance imaging and work in hospitals and imaging centers.
- Ultrasound Technologist: Ultrasound technologists specialize in ultrasound imaging and work in hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers.
Gallery of Radiologic Technology
FAQs
What is the job outlook for radiologic technologists?
+The job outlook for radiologic technologists is excellent, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 7% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030.
What is the median salary for radiologic technologists?
+The median salary for radiologic technologists is around $60,000, but can range from $40,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience and location.
What type of education and training is required to become a radiologic technologist?
+Radiologic technologists typically require an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in radiologic sciences, as well as certification and licensure in the state where they practice.
In conclusion, radiologic technology is a rewarding and in-demand career that offers many benefits. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, consider enrolling in a radiology tech program in Memphis, TN. With the right education and training, you can become a competent radiologic technologist and make a positive impact on patients' lives.