How Long Does It Take to Become a Radiology Tech?

Radiology techs work with imaging equipment and machines to product x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), computed tomography, and more, so that doctors can get an internal look at the body without invasive procedures. Sometimes called radiographers, radiology technicians and technologists can work in general medicine or specialize in one area of the body or one type of medical condition. Regardless of your specialization choices, the best way to advance in your career as a radiology tech is to complete the proper training.

Educational Requirements

Officially, there’s no nation-wide educational requirement to work in this position, but the more education you have, the more likely you will be to get hired. Most states require radiology technicians to be licensed. And the vast majority of employers want to see all of their radiology techs certified.

Becoming a Licensed Radiology Technician

Many states use the certification test from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists as their licensing test, and to successful complete this test, you should first complete at least a two-year associate’s degree program. Many radiology techs actually get their bachelor’s degree before taking the test, so if you want to work in this career field, you can estimate to spend 18 months to 5 years completing your program of choice.

Your education doesn’t end there. Once you have your license, you must complete at least 24 hours of education every two years to renew your license. This education makes it possible for you to stay current with new technologies and research in your field. You can also pursue an advanced degree in radiology technology, medical diagnostic sonography, or another related field.

Radiology Technician Salaries

According to BLS, starting salaries in this field average nearly $37,000. Even if you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, you can succeed in this field. Those with less than a bachelor’s degree average around $56,000 a year. If you’re willing to put in the extra time, however, you can expect to make more like $63,000 per year. Keep in mind, however, that there are just averages estimated by the ASRT.

Your exact salary will depend not just on education experience, but also on your recommendations, the location where you work, and your specialization. Overall, for all radiology techs of all skill levels, educational backgrounds, and experience, the average salary is between $49,000 and $50,000. Any way you slice it, the education to become a radiology tech pays for itself after just a few years.

Radiology Technician and Health Science Programs

Having an associate's degree is the most common educational qualification among radiology technicians and technologists. No matter which career options in the radiology technician field you may be pursuing, the health degrees listed here will have you on your way to fulfilling your dreams.

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AS in Health IT	Hodges University — The Associate of Science degree in health information technology from Hodges University prepares students for entry-level positions within hospitals, X-ray clinics, and other healthcare settings. Knowledge of medical technology and equipment and medial recordkeeping is learned within this convenient, two-year program.
AOS in Radiography BS in Radiologic Science	Pima Medical Institute — A student in Pima's AOS in radiography degree program will learn the necessary skills to provide high quality diagnostic imagery to patients. The BS in radiologic sciences program will give you the academic insight into radiologic health care administration to evaluate and understand the diagnostic imagery performed on clients. This program is highly relevant in today's expanding medical field.
BS in Radiologic Science	Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences — Florida Hospital College offers an accredited online BS degree in radiological sciences that offers medical imaging technologists and radiologic technicians the opportunity to learn more skills to advance their careers in the healthcare field. Earning this degree ensure that its graduates are wholly prepared for the fast-paced and quickly adapting environment of medical imaging clinics and hospitals.
AAS in Health IT	Rasmussen College — Rasmussen College offers an AAS in health information technology that is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in healthcare. Aspiring radiology technicians will learn the ins and outs of cutting edge medical technology and computer systems.
AAS in Health IT	Lincoln College — At the Lincoln College AAS in health information technology degree program, students are able to take courses in Pharmacology, Pathophsyiology, Health Systems and Procedures, and Healthcare Data Applications. The program includes an internship module, which teaches students the tools for personal and professional development needed for success in the workplace.
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