- A radiologic technologist or radiology tech is someone who can perform imaging procedures using a combination of hands-on and theoretical training in imaging equipment(1). In most cases, an associate’s degree is the only requirement for entry-level positions.
- California has one of the highest cost of living indexes, and radiologic technician salaries are much higher than the state’s average yearly pay(2).
- In California, radiologic technologists make an average yearly income of $77,650(3). This amount is much more than the national average annual pay for radiologic technologists, which is roughly $60,320 per year.
Top X-ray Technician Schools in Los Angeles
There are almost 40 schools in California that offer a variety of programs in the field of radiologic technology.
California has one of the highest costs of living indexes. The average annual compensation for radiologic technicians is much more than the state’s average annual wage(4).
In addition, California has one of the broadest options of universities from which to get a Bachelor of Science or Associate of Applied Science degree in radiation and imaging sciences.
Before students start looking for a program that will meet their needs, they need to ensure that the program meets the licensing requirements of the California Department of Public Health’s Radiologic Health Branch (RHB).
Students may also note that the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) currently accredits certificates, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degree programs in radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance, and medical dosimetry(5).
These courses can be offered in both traditional and distance education settings.
Also, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or CAAHEP is the leading programmatic accreditor for careers in the health sciences degree(6).
Together with its committees, CAAHEP evaluates and accredits more than 2,100 individual education programs in 32 health science vocations.
Ongoing evaluations ensure that CAAHEP-accredited programs adhere to the standards and guidelines of each profession(7).
Meanwhile, the Joint Review Committee on Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT) assesses programs following nationally-recognized criteria. Therefore, assuring the quality of educational programs(8).
The CHEA or Council for Higher Education Accreditation recognizes the JRCNMT to accredit nuclear medicine technology programs at the postsecondary level(9).
The following table aims to help students compare the various programs in medical imaging and not-for-profit radiographic technology in California(10).
| School Name | Associate’s Imaging Program | Bachelor’s Imaging Program | Graduate Imaging Program | Program Accreditation | Completion Rate | ARRT Exam Pass Rate | Job Placement Rate | Net Price |
| Antelope Valley College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 100% | 100% | 100% | $9,761 |
| Cabrillo College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 77% | 97% | 90% | $10,157 |
| Bakersfield College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 88% | 89% | 100% | $6,645 |
| Cañada College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 84% | 100% | 94% | $6,453 |
| California Baptist University | — | Yes | — | JRCERT | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $25,714 |
| California State University-Northridge | — | Yes | — | JRCERT | 100% | 99% | 97% | $5,958 |
| CBD College | Yes | — | — | CAAHEP | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $23,095 |
| Casa Loma College-Van Nuys | Yes | — | — | — | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $24,787 |
| Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science | Yes | Yes | — | JRCERT | 90% | 69% | 85% | $10,526 |
| Chaffey College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 82% | 100% | 98% | $10,526 |
| Crafton Hills College | Yes | — | — | — | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $15,162 |
| City College of San Francisco | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 90% | 100% | 90% | $5,479 |
| Cosumnes River College | Yes | — | — | CAAHEP | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $5,921 |
| Cypress College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT, CAAHEP | 91% | 94% | 94% | $6,636 |
| El Camino Community College District | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 86% | 100% | 99% | $10,623 |
| Fresno City College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 93% | 94% | 98% | $4,266 |
| Foothill College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT, CAAHEP | 95% | 99% | 98% | $7,481 |
| Loma Linda University (Associate’s) | Yes | Yes | Yes | JRCERT, CAAHEP, JRCNMT | 94% | 80% | 95% | N.Av. |
| Lincoln University | — | Yes | — | — | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $15,462 |
| Long Beach City College | Yes | — | — | — | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $5,526 |
| Loma Linda University (Bachelor’s) | Yes | Yes | Yes | JRCERT, CAAHEP, JRCNMT | N.Av. | 86% | 91% | N.Av. |
| Los Angeles City College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 96% | 92% | 86% | $7,360 |
| Moorpark College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 87% | 97% | 91% | $4,293 |
| Merced College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT, CAAHEP | 85% | 96% | 100% | $9,728 |
| Merritt College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 70% | 88% | 99% | $6,540 |
| Mt. San Jacinto College-Menifee | Yes | — | — | CAAHEP | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $6,863 |
| Mt. San Antonio College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 81% | 85% | 98% | $4,890 |
| Orange Coast College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT, CAAHEP | 75% | 84% | 94% | $5,533 |
| National University | — | Yes | Yes | JRCERT | 79% | N.Av. | N.Av. | $23,232 |
| San Diego Mesa College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 100% | 98% | 94% | $7,543 |
| Pasadena City College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 86% | 92% | 95% | $8,030 |
| Santa Rosa Junior College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 100% | 93% | 91% | $8,770 |
| San Diego State University | — | — | Yes | — | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $13,363 |
| San Joaquin Delta College | Yes | — | — | — | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $11,060 |
| Santa Barbara City College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT, CAAHEP | 82% | 92% | 94% | $11,082 |
| University of California-San Diego | — | — | Yes | CAAHEP | N.Av. | N.Av. | N.Av. | $14,616 |
| University of California-Irvine | — | — | Yes | JRCERT | 100% | 100% | 100% | $13,944 |
| Yuba College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 87% | 97% | 80% | $5,229 |
**Data on the table retrieved on June 12, 2022.
Students need to consider that the duration of the program varies on the X-ray technician courses offered.
Individuals must consider other factors when choosing a radiology program(11). Individuals with a high school diploma or an advanced degree may enroll in radiology certificate programs.
Programs
In California, aspiring Certified Radiologic Technologists (CRTs) may apply to the RBH (Royal Berkshire Hospital) for four certificates or permits(12):
- Radiologic technologist fluoroscopy certificate
- Diagnostic radiologic technologist certificate
- Mammographic radiologic technologist certificate
- Therapeutic radiologic technologist certificate
As part of the Radiologic Sciences education, students will study career-specific topics such as anatomy, physics, radiation safety, communication, and computer skills.
Some colleges and universities offer comprehensive programs, including clinical rotations where students can apply their patient care and technical abilities in a real-world setting(13).
Students will work with physicians, nurses, and experienced radiologic technicians in radiology departments or physician’s offices.
X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program
Radiologic technicians include radiographers, X-ray technologists, and rad techs(14).
A radiologic technologist is different from a radiologic technician. “Technologist” is a broader category, signifying knowledge of a range of imaging procedures and equipment and a comprehensive grasp of diagnostic imaging basics.
In contrast to an X-ray technician, a radiologic technologist is a skilled and registered medical practitioner who does diagnostic imaging examinations, like X-rays, to support physicians in patient care such as diagnosis of sickness or injury.
Also, radiologic technologists undertake diagnostic imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography(CT) scans(15). Some specialize in specific methods, including cardiovascular-interventional, mammography, sonography, and radiography programs.
How to Become a Radiology Technologist in California
A radiologic technologist or radiology tech can perform imaging procedures using a combination of hands-on and theoretical training in imaging equipment(16).
In most cases, an associate degree is the only requirement for entry-level positions.
Aspiring Certified Radiologic Technologists or CRTs and X-ray techs or XTs in California should anticipate accomplishing the following basic procedure(17):
- Students can get a degree or certificate in radiation therapy, radiography, or any other chosen field. However, the learners need to ensure that the program meets the board’s requirements.
- Students need to submit the CRT application and pay the application fee to the California Department of Public Health-Radiologic Health Branch (CDPH-RHB). Once the CDPH-RHB has determined eligibility, a one-year period of state eligibility commences, during which the test must be completed.
- After the CDPH-RHB has established the student’s test eligibility, applicants must pay the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam cost.
Once everything has been completed, students will get a Candidate Status Report (CSR) from the ARRT. Applicants will be eligible to plan and take the test within a 90-day period.
All candidates must take the Fluoroscopy part of the test in addition to the main certification exam. - After passing the ARRT examination, students need to obtain their certificate or licensure and will be permitted to practice as a CRT in the state.
- In addition to obtaining a CRT license in California, some RTs may choose to seek ARRT national certification in radiologic technology.
- Students need to maintain their RT certification. The CDPH-RHB mandates that RT credentials be renewed every two years. However, before renewal, RTs must complete 24 continuing education(CE) credits, including a specific number in their specialty, and pay all application and certification costs to the CDPH-RHB.
Meanwhile, students in California’s medical schools will also find clinical coursework significant in their learning(18).
As a result of these sessions, students will get practical experience working with X-ray equipment and clinical rotations in clinical settings. Aside from the programs, students are taught clinical competency, critical thinking and problem-solving, effective communication, and professional aptitude.
The training required to become a radiology technician may have different course titles and credit hours depending on the institution, but the fundamentals are almost identical.
Other programs and courses available to students at California’s radiology schools may include(19):
- Radiographic imaging
- Radiographic equipment and clinical application
- Anatomy and radiographic positioning
- Radiographic science and protection
Accreditations
Under the Radiologic Technology Act, the California Radiologic Health Branch (RHB) certifies X-ray technician programs in the following fields(20):
- Diagnostic radiologic technology
- Therapeutic radiologic technology
- Fluoroscopic radiologic technology
- Limited permit X-ray technician
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is the only organization recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) to accredit distance and traditional delivery educational programs in:
- Radiation therapy
- Radiography
- Magnetic resonance
- Medical dosimetry
It has been determined that JRCERT–accredited programs meet or exceed the Standards for Accredited Programs in Radiologic Technology Program. Students may visit their website at www.jrcert.org for more information.
It is recommended for students that when they are looking for accredited radiography programs in California, they should consider schools with program effectiveness and a completion rate of 100%.
Here are some examples of accredited radiography programs in California(21):
1. Antelope Valley College – Radiography
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 20 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 100%
Job Placement Rate: 100%
2. Bakersfield College – Radiography
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 52 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 83%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 89%
Job Placement Rate: 100%
3. Arrowhead Regional Medical Center – Radiography
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 18 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 85%
Job Placement Rate: 93%
4. California State University, Northridge – Radiography
Program Name: Radiologic Sciences
Program Type: Bachelor of Radiologic Science
Duration: 120 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 99.1%
Job Placement Rate: 98.8%
5. Cabrillo College – Radiography
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 52 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 72%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 96%
Job Placement Rate: 88%
6. Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science, College of Science and Health – Radiography
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 87 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 89%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 74.68%
Job Placement Rate: 83%
Career Opportunities
US News and World Report has rated 17 hospitals in the biggest and most populated state in the country, California(22). Although employment at these hospitals is more competitive, compensation and benefits are likely among the finest in the state.
Salaries for X-ray Technicians
In California, radiologic technologists make an average yearly income of $77,650(23). This amount is much more than the national average annual pay for radiologic technologists, roughly $60,320 annually.
This yearly wage average is also much greater than the annual salary average for California residents, which is $57,190(24). The salary makes radiology science an excellent option for California students seeking well-paying employment in a developing area.
FAQs
1. How long will it take to complete an X-ray tech program?
It is possible to become an X-ray technician in as little as one year or as much as two years, depending on the type of school program that students choose(25).
Certificate programs for X-ray technicians normally last for a period of fourteen months; however, some of these programs provide a fast-track option that enables students to finish the curriculum sooner.
In comparison, programs leading to an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree may take two and four years to finish, respectively.
2. How much is the average tuition fee for an X-ray tech program?
A certificate in radiography or radiologic technology typically costs between $6,000 and $20,000 and can take from 18-24 months to complete the program(26).
3. Is it hard to become an X-ray tech?
The subjects covered in X-ray technician programs can be difficult(27). Students will require a solid and in-depth knowledge of the human body and imaging equipment.
However, the instructors are experts in their respective professions. This indicates that they will be able to assist the students in comprehending the technical information, allowing the students to feel confidence in their skills.
4. How much does an X-ray tech make a year?
In California, radiologic technologists earn an average of $77,650 per year(28). This amount is much more than the national average annual salary for radiologic technologists, which is around $60,320 per year.
- Radiology Schools in California
https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/california.html - Great Careers in California: Become a Radiologic Technologist
https://radiologyed.org/schools/california/ - Ibid.
- Great Careers in California: Become a Radiologic Technologist
https://radiologyed.org/schools/california/ - About JRCERT
https://www.jrcert.org/about-jrcert/ - What is CAAHEP?
https://www.caahep.org/#:~:text=What%20is%20CAAHEP%3F,of%20the%20health%20sciences%20professions. - Ibid.
- JRCNMT
https://www.jrcnmt.org/ - Ibid.
- Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in California
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/california/ - X-Ray Technician
https://www.radiology-schools.com/x-ray-technician.html - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in California
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/california/ - Radiologic Sciences
https://www.dallascollege.edu/cd/credit/radiologic-sciences/pages/default.aspx - What to Know About X-ray Tech Programs and Radiography Degrees
https://www.cleveland.edu/blog-post/~post/what-to-know-about-x-ray-tech-programs-and-radiography-degrees-20180419/ - Radiologic Technologist
https://explorehealthcareers.org/career/allied-health-professions/radiologic-technologist/ - Radiology Schools in California
https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/california.html - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in California
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/california/ - Radiology Schools in California
https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/california.html - Ibid.
- California Accredited Radiography and Radiation Therapy Programs
https://www.csrt.org/education/student-corner/schools - Great Careers in California: Become a Radiologic Technologist
https://radiologyed.org/schools/california/ - Ibid.
- Ibid.
- Ibid.
- FAQ: How Much Time Does It Take To Be an X-Ray Tech?
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-xray-tech# - How Much Does X-Ray Technician School Cost?
https://www.vocationaltraininghq.com/cost/x-ray-technician-school/ - How Long Is X-Ray Technician School & Is It Hard?
https://www.cambridgehealth.edu/blog/how-long-is-x-ray-technician-school-is-it-hard/ - Great Careers in California: Become a Radiologic Technologist
https://radiologyed.org/schools/california/