- The National Center for Education Statistics lists 11 institutions in Indiana that offer various radiology programs(1).
- The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) has accredited 21 radiology programs from 18 radiology tech schools in Indiana(2).
- The Hancock Regional Hospital in Greenfield and the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis are among the radiology schools in Indiana with the highest program effectiveness data(3).
- As of May 2019, radiologic technologists and radiology technicians in Indiana have an average annual salary of $58,710.00(4).
Radiologists, radiologic technologists, and radiology technicians are allied health science specialists in diagnostic imaging.
Production of medical images involves modalities, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray, sonography, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, and mammography.
Students typically need an associate’s degree from a radiography program to pursue specialized degrees from MRI technologist or other radiology programs.
Higher-ranking occupations in nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, and fluoroscopy are also available to radiology students.
Graduates of accredited radiography programs may apply for entry-level positions. These occupations include radiographers or radiologic technicians who operate sonography or X-ray machines.
Those who aim for specialized and higher positions may study radiology programs to prepare for specific radiology fields.
Best Radiology Schools in Indiana
The best radiology schools in the state of Indiana have accreditation from the JRCERT. This committee is the only one with recognition from the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and from the United States Department of Education (USDE).
Twelve schools offer radiography programs for Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees upon graduation.
These degrees are necessary to enter advanced radiologic technology programs for specialized radiologic technology occupations.
Three schools offer Bachelor of Science degree programs in radiography, magnetic resonance, and radiation therapy. Such degrees are necessary for aspiring radiologists.
Prospects need a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree to pursue a medical degree and become a radiologist.
The following table is a comprehensive list of all schools in Indiana and that offer JRCERT–accredited programs(5)*.
| Radiology School | Type of Program | Degree/ Certificate | Program Length (in months) | Program Effectiveness Data (%) | ||
| Completion Rate | Credential Examination Pass Rate | Job Placement Rate | ||||
| Ball State University Indianapolis, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 14 | 80.00 | 97.00 | 97.00 |
| Columbus Regional Hospital Columbus, Indiana | Radiography | Certificate | 24 | 100.00 | 95.00 | 100.00 |
| Hancock Regional Hospital Greenfield, Indiana | Radiography | Certificate | 23 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 100.00 |
| Indiana University Fort Wayne Fort Wayne, Indiana | Radiography | Bachelor of Science | 33 | 90.00 | 100.00 | 100.00 |
| Indiana University Kokomo Kokomo, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 22 | 100.00 | 94.80 | 100.00 |
| Indiana University Northwest Gary, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 24 | 78.95 | 98.04 | 96.50 |
| Radiation Therapy | Bachelor of Science | 22 | 83.00 | 80.00 | 91.00 | |
| Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology Indianapolis, Indiana | Medical Dosimetry | Certificate | 12 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 100.00 |
| Radiation Therapy | Bachelor of Science | 22 | 100.00 | 90.10 | 98.00 | |
| Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Radiology Indianapolis, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 22 | 94.40 | 95.90 | 99.10 |
| Indiana University South Bend South Bend, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 22 | 85.00 | 96.00 | 100.00 |
| Ivy Tech Community College-Bloomington Bloomington, Indiana | Radiation Therapy | Associate of Science | 22 | 63.00 | 91.00 | 100.00 |
| Ivy Tech Community College-Central Indiana Indianapolis, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 21 | 100.00 | 100.00 | 97.00 |
| Ivy Tech Community College-Marion Marion, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 21 | 92.00 | 97.00 | 93.00 |
| Ivy Tech Community College-Wabash Valley Region Terre Haute, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 20 | 76.00 | 83.00 | 89.00 |
| John Patrick University of Health and Applied Sciences South Bend, Indiana | Medical Dosimetry | Master of Science, Bachelor of Science | 24, 16 | 100.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| King’s Daughters’ Health Madison, Indiana | Radiography | Certificate | 24 | 100.00 | 96.40 | 100.00 |
| Reid Hospital & Health Care Services Richmond, Indiana | Radiography | Certificate | 24 | 100.00 | 96.60 | 100.00 |
| St. Vincent Indianapolis/St. Vincent Anderson/St. Vincent Kokomo Consortium Indianapolis, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Applied Science | 22 | 94.00 | 98.00 | 98.00 |
| University of Saint Francis Fort Wayne, Indiana | Radiography | Associate of Science | 22 | 68.00 | 100.00 | 100.00 |
| University of Southern Indiana Evansville, Indiana | Radiography | Bachelor of Rad. & Imaging Sciences | 28 | 100.00 | 93.42 | 100.00 |
*Data retrieved on Sept. 10, 2020. Changes may occur when new information comes in.
Other Radiology Schools in Indiana
Some schools in the state of Indiana may offer radiologic technology programs that are not JRCERT-accredited. However, graduates of such programs are still eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam(6).
As long as students complete an educational program that meets ARRT standards, they may sit for the ARRT certification examination. Passing the ARRT certification exam is required for licensure.
Most states, including Indiana, require licensure before radiographers can practice(7). Industries also prefer hiring registered radiologic technologists.
The following schools offer radiology programs but are unlisted on the JRCERT website:
Purdue University Fort Wayne – Fort Wayne, Indiana
This public school offers an associate’s degree in medical radiologic technology or medical radiologic science for radiation therapists and a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology or radiologic science for radiographers.
During 2018 to 2019, no students completed the associate’s degree program, while 20 students completed the bachelor’s program(8).
This school has previously been accredited by the JRCERT. The school’s next review date is scheduled for April 1, 2027.
Radiological Technologies University VT – South Bend, Indiana
This private, for-profit school offers several radiology programs.
During 2018 to 2019, one student completed the bachelor’s degree program in medical radiologic technology or medical radiologic science for radiation therapists. An option to take this remotely is available as an undergraduate certificate program.
Two students completed the master’s degree in radiation protection or health physics.
The radiologic technology or radiologic science programs for radiographers offers associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees.
The school’s next JRCERT review date is scheduled for January 1, 2026(9).
Vincennes University – Vincennes, Indiana
This public school offers a certificate program and an associate’s degree program in medical radiologic technology or medical radiologic science for radiation therapists.
During 2018 to 2019, six students completed the associate’s program(10).
As of August 2020, the school has no schedule for its next JRCERT review.
How to Become a Radiologic Technologist in Indiana
Typical requirements for radiology school prospects include a high school degree or general education development (GED) degree. Applicants must be at least 17 years old to enter an accredited college with a radiology program.
Application
Schools, colleges, and universities typically accommodate online applications. Official websites require membership for easier application processes. Some official websites also offer a dedicated webpage for applicants to request information.
Admission
The admission processes of radiology schools tend to be competitive. Schools may prioritize students with a grade point average (GPA) above 3.0 for their radiologic technology programs. Having taken advanced math and science courses in high school also boosts a student’s chances.
For non-high school students, some schools may require prerequisite courses before admission. These subjects include physiology and anatomy, which are essential starting points in clinical education and science in radiologic technology.
Financial aid departments of schools also assist students with applying for the type of aid that they qualify for.
Curriculum
A standard curriculum of radiography programs includes industry fundamentals, such as theory, procedures, radiation protection, specialized patient care, and other coursework.
Meanwhile, radiology programs may focus on more specific clinical and didactic instructions to prepare students for specialized positions.
Graduation
Graduation from programs earns students an AAS degree. These programs may take two years to complete. AAS degree holders may apply for entry-level positions in radiology departments of hospitals as X-ray technicians or operators of CT scans and ultrasound machines.
Students of JRCERT-accredited schools have better chances of securing jobs in radiologic technology upon graduation. Graduates may also join the Indiana Radiological Society(11). This professional organization aims to standardize and advance the state’s radiologic practices.
Licensing Requirements in Indiana
The ARRT provides licensing exams for radiologic technologists to practice their professions within the state of Indiana. Only graduates of schools with ARRT certification may take the licensing exam.
The JRCERT is the only recognized accrediting body for radiography programs. Graduation from accredited programs may boost the chances of securing entry-level positions in the industry.
Students may complete any radiography program from a school that meets ARRT standards for the exam(12).
After passing the ARRT licensure exam, radiographers must complete continuing education to renew their license every two years.
More information and additional resources regarding licensure and accreditation are available at the Indiana State Department of Health(13) and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)(14).
Career Opportunities and Salary
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers an Occupational Employment Statistics Query System, which gathers the latest labor data of multiple occupations for one specific geographic area(15).
Based on BLS data as of May 2019, the following table summarizes the employment rates and wages for radiologist jobs in Indiana:
State: Indiana
Period: May 2019
| Occupation | Employment(A) | Average Hourly Salary | Average Annual Salary(B) |
| Radiation Therapists | 410 | $39.26 | $81,660.00 |
| Cardiovascular Technologists and Cardiovascular Technicians | 1,290 | $26.72 | $55,570.00 |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographers | 1,200 | $34.30 | $71,350.00 |
| Nuclear Medicine Technologists | 390 | $35.57 | $73,980.00 |
| Radiologic Technologists and Radiology Technicians | 4,550 | $28.22 | $58,710.00 |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists | 890 | $32.37 | $67,330.00 |
A. Estimates for detailed occupations do not sum to the totals because the totals include occupations not shown separately. Estimates do not include self-employed workers. Date extracted: September 9, 2020.
B. Annual salaries have been calculated by multiplying the corresponding hourly salary by 2,080 hours. Date extracted: September 9, 2020.
Based on the occupational employment statistics of the US BLS, Indiana is among the states with the highest concentration of jobs and location quotients in radiologic techs.
Except for cardiovascular technologists and cardiovascular technicians, other specialized careers make at least $8,000 more than radiographers and rad techs. Responsibilities of each profession account for the wage gap.
Radiologists may specialize in MRI, nuclear medicine technology, diagnostic medical sonography, cardiovascular technology, or radiation therapy. These professionals are actual physicians with a medical doctor (MD) status who diagnose and treat patients.
Radiographers and rad techs are limited to operating radiologic technology machines. They may know about appropriate courses of action when using radiologic technology. However, only radiologists can officially make assessments of diseases and decide on the best treatment plans.
Although radiography programs prepare students for radiologic technologists’ responsibilities, graduates may pursue radiology programs for further education.
Conclusion
Currently, there are 18 radiology schools in Indiana that offer programs with accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.
Students who complete accredited radiologic science programs may earn certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, or master’s degrees in radiology.
Students may take at least a year to two-and-a-half years to complete radiography programs and become radiographers or X-ray techs.
As of May 2019, radiographers or X-ray technicians and radiologic technicians in Indiana make an average hourly salary of $28.22, and an average annual salary of $58,710.00(16).
Radiology programs such as radiation therapy and medical dosimetry take about two years and 10 months to complete.
Professionals in MRI, mammography, nuclear medicine, and other specialized fields earn significantly more than radiographers and radiology technicians.
Radiologists are actual physicians with advanced clinical experience. These professionals work full-time with medical imaging and radiation sciences to diagnose and treat patients.
Meanwhile, radiographers may assist radiologists in the workplace. However, they cannot give formal diagnoses.
- National Center for Education Statistics. College Navigator. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=IN&p=51.0907+26.0209+51.0916+51.0911+51.0814&l=91+92+93+94
- JRCERT program effectiveness data. Retrieved from www.jrcert.org/resources/program-effectiveness-data/
- Ibid
- May 2019 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Indiana. Occupational Employment Statistics. National Center for Education Statistics. US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_in.htm
- JRCERT program effectiveness data. Op cit
- Student FAQs. Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Retrieved from https://www.jrcert.org/students/student-faqs/#javelin_faq1149_276
- Radiology Licensing Information. Indiana Department of Health. Retrieved from https://www.in.gov/isdh/23279.htm
- College Navigator – Purdue University Fort Wayne. National Center for Education Statistics. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=IN&p=51.0907+26.0209+51.0916+51.0911+51.0814&l=91+92+93+94&id=151102
- College Navigator – Radiological Technologies University VT. National Center for Education Statistics. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=IN&p=51.0907+26.0209+51.0916+51.0911+51.0814&l=91+92+93+94&id=488776
- College Navigator – Vincennes University. National Center for Education Statistics. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=IN&p=51.0907+26.0209+51.0916+51.0911+51.0814&l=91+92+93+94&id=152637
- About the Indiana Radiological Society. Indiana Radiological Society. Retrieved from http://www.inrad.org/about.html
- Student FAQs. Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Op cit
- Mission & Vision. Indiana Department of Health. Retrieved from https://www.in.gov/isdh/18930.htm
- Who We Are FAQ. American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Retrieved from https://www.asrt.org/main/about-asrt/mission-vision/who-we-are-faq
- Occupational Employment Statistics Query System. US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Retrieved from https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home
- May 2019 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Indiana. Occupational Employment Statistics. National Center for Education Statistics. Op cit