- The average number of radiology students per institution in Oregon is around 18,000(1). Universities and colleges in the state charge between $7,900 to $20,000 each year for tuition for the rad tech programs.
- Radiologic technologists are also called radiographers, X-ray technicians, and rad techs. Regarding different types of careers, the term “radiography degrees” may be misleading(2).
- In contrast to a technician, a radiologic technologist is a medical professional with a broad range of skills and is certified and registered to perform diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays(3).
- To achieve the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification, individuals who meet the education criteria must take the ARRT certification examination(4). At least a score of 75 is necessary to pass the test.
X-ray Technician Schools in Oregon
The table below provides an easy way to evaluate Oregon‘s radiologic technology and medical imaging programs(5).
It is recommended that students consult with the Oregon Board of Medical Imaging (OBMI) to see whether or not the program they are pursuing will satisfy the standards for obtaining a license.
| School Name | Associate’s Imaging Program | Bachelor’s Imaging Program | National Accreditation | Completion Rate | Credential Exam Pass Rate | Job Placement Rate | Net Price |
| Linn-Benton Community College | Yes | — | — | — | — | — | $8,583 |
| Oregon Health & Science University | — | Yes | JRCERT | 89% | 94% | 100% | N.Av. |
| Oregon Institute of Technology | — | Yes | CAAHEP | — | — | — | $16,670 |
| Portland Community College | Yes | — | JRCERT | 91% | 100% | 100% | $8,530 |
**Data on listings was retrieved last June 27, 2022. Changes in data may occur when new information comes in.
Applicants may opt to choose programs either online or on-campus degrees in some institutions.
Short Trivia About Oregon Tech Schools
Here is a quick and short list of trivia about Oregon tech schools(6):
- Five universities and colleges in Oregon offer degree programs in radiology.
- The average number of radiology students per institution in the state of Oregon is around 18,000.
- Universities and colleges charge between $7,900 to $20,000 each year for tuition in the rad tech programs.
- The state’s tuition range for career schools is around $7,700 per year.
- One school in the state offers bachelor’s degree programs in radiology, while two provide associate degree programs in the same profession.
- In Oregon, the average yearly income for a radiology technician is around $63,000.
Another important note is that there is no master’s program or higher degree in radiologic science in Oregon(7).
Meanwhile, the following radiography programs are not currently accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)(8). However, many of these programs are accredited by other organizations.
The programs are still a viable option for obtaining a high-quality radiological technology education:
- Linn-Benton Community College
- Klamath Falls Treasure Valley Community College, Ontario
- Portland Oregon Institute of Technology
- Albany Oregon Health & Science University
List of Programs
Here is the list of JRCERT Accredited Radiography Programs in Oregon(9):
1. Oregon Health & Science University – Radiation Therapy
Program Name: Radiation Therapy
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Duration: 32 months
Completion Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 95%
Job Placement Rate: 88%
Tuition Fees: $21,064 resident, $25,344 non-resident
Address: 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, GH124, Portland OR 97239-3098
Tel: (503) 494-6708
2. Pioneer Pacific College – Radiography
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 28 months
Completion Rate: 87.5%
Credential Examination
Pass Rate: 71% Job Placement Rate: 80%
Tuition Fees: $21,353 resident, $21,353 non-resident
Address: 3800 Sports Way, Springfield OR 97477
Tel: (541) 684-4644
3. Portland Community College – Radiography
Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 104 months
Completion Rate: 90%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 100%
Job Placement Rate: 93%
Tuition Fees: $4,950 resident, $10,500 non-resident
Address: 12000 SW 49th Ave. SY HT 306, Portland OR 97219
Tel: (971) 722-4907
**Data based on listings last updated on June 17, 2022.
X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program
It is important to remember that a radiologic technologist is different from a radiologic technician.
Radiologic technicians or X-ray technicians often find employment in healthcare settings such as hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, clinics, labs, nursing homes, or even the private sector(11). Most workers put in 40 hours a week, with others also working nights, weekends, and on-call shifts.
Using sophisticated equipment, X-ray technicians produce medical pictures identifying specific anatomical structures inside their patients’ bodies.
X-ray technicians are highly trained healthcare professionals who can operate complex imaging equipment to get “inside” images of a patient. Thus, physicians can diagnose a patient’s condition and prescribe treatment.
In contrast to a technician, a radiologic technologist is a medical professional with a broad range of skills and is certified and registered to perform diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays(12).
Meanwhile, the key tasks of the radiographer include(13):
- Utilizing sophisticated imaging equipment
- Positioning the patient to get the proper anatomical perspective
- Choosing the correct exposure
- Reducing patient and employee radiation exposure
- Providing emotional support to the patient and must demonstrate empathy and compassion
A radiographer may progress by focusing on related fields, such as computed tomography, vascular interventional imaging, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, and bone densitometry, with extra training and study.
Among other courses to learn from, some radiology programs include patient care, medical imaging techniques, contrast media fluoroscopy, computed tomography, and interventional radiography(14).
Additionally, strong writing, oral communication, and collaboration abilities are required.
How to Become an X-ray Technician in Oregon
Employment in health care and earning a high school diploma is the first step in obtaining an entry-level position(15). Math and science courses, such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, physiology, and physics, may assist students in preparing for college-level study.
For an overview, radiologic technologists must possess a state license, which must be renewed every two years(16). In addition, continuing education standards must be satisfied, including 24 hours of coursework every two years.
Once a student or professional passes the state certification test or an equivalent exam from another state, they are granted a state license. Radiologist Assistants in Oregon are licensed through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification test.
Rad techs pursuing ARRT certification and licensing must complete the following steps(18):
- Completing a program of study in specific imaging modalities. The ARRT requires applicants to finish an associate’s degree and a program of study in their chosen modality.
- Passing the certification test. To achieve ARRT certification, individuals who meet the education criteria must take the ARRT certification examination. At least a score of 75 is required to pass the test.
- Submitting an application, licensure fee, and fingerprint background check to the OBMI. Once the background check and application processing is complete, the OBMI will issue a license to practice.
- Meeting the prerequisites for license renewal. The renewal of licenses is required every two years. The OBMI acknowledges sustained ARRT certification as completing continuing education and renewal criteria. Certificates must be renewed yearly, along with 24 hours of continuing education every two years, per ARRT requirements.
With the Restricted X-Ray Machine Operator (LXMO) Permit, Oregon also acknowledges limited scope X-ray technician practice(19). Aspiring LXMOs must pass an authorized education program in limited scope radiography, which involves applying for a temporary LXMO permit to fulfill the needed clinical experience.
Furthermore, as part of the application procedure for a temporary LXMO permit, applicants must register and pass the ARRT Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography examination.
Candidates can seek an upgrade to a permanent LXMO permit after meeting the education, examination, and experience criteria, which must be renewed every two years.
In addition to taking the test, applicants must pay an application fee and submit papers such as a high school diploma and identification(20).
Meanwhile, the board provides limited-scope tests for certain professional categories within the medical imaging industry, including:
- Sonography
- X-ray machine operations
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- Radiation treatment
- Nuclear medicine
- Radiography
The mentioned categories are the most common career tests with a restricted scope.
The state recognizes a temporary status that enables students and recent graduates to be eligible to get a permit while they wait for the date of their ARRT examination(21).
Students are permitted to begin working up to five months before the date on which they are expected to have completed all of their courses. The students have paid the temporary permission cost of $30 for this permit.
It is also worth noting that in some programs, during the last year of radiologic science, there are full-time externships under the supervision of clinical instructors(22).
After the externship year, imaging students will be qualified to take the American Registration of Radiologic Technologists‘ professional registry test (ARRT).
Accreditation
To get a license and transfer credits to other radiology schools, one must enroll in a radiography technology program authorized by the relevant authorities(23).
Accreditation may be either regional or programmatic, and both are viable choices. The United States Department of Education classifies the former as a school.
As part of issuing licenses to rad tech students, several states need accreditation as a prerequisite.
The Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCERT), the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology(JRCNMT) can conduct reviews of educational programs.
Professional Organizations
Students and working radiological technologists might consider joining a professional organization like the Oregon Society of Radiological Technologists (OSRT). The organization offers its members perks, including unique job postings, continuing education opportunities, and conferences(24).
The Oregon Society of Radiologic Technologists (OSRT) is a state affiliate of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
Career Opportunities for X-ray Techs in Oregon
Oregon citizens have several reasons to consider pursuing a career in radiology, particularly in the coming years(25). The rad tech profession is following the upward trend of the healthcare industry to satisfy expanding medical demands.
Radiologic technicians and anyone pursuing a career in the industry should anticipate excellent employment opportunities(26). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of job vacancies for radiology techs is projected to rise by 28% between 2010 and 2020.
The profession of radiological technology is expanding twice as quickly as the national average for all occupations(27). Approximately 2,170 radiological technologists are working in Oregon, and this number is increasing.
Hospitals, doctors’ offices, labs, and outpatient clinics are the most common employers for job seekers in this profession(28). A career in radiologic technology may be a promising option for those who appreciate working directly with patients.
Moreover, this career is for individuals who want to play a substantial role in a medical setting and can perform in diverse work situations.
Additionally, radiologic technology graduates may discover work prospects at major hospitals, smaller medical centers, doctor’s offices, and smaller clinics around the state(29).
Here are some of the Oregon hospitals that employ radiologic technologists:
- Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center
- Providence Portland Medical Center
- St. Charles Medical Center-Bend
- Peace Health Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend
- Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center
- Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
- Providence St. Vincent Medical Center
- Salem Health Hospital
Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current annual average compensation for radiological technologists in Oregon is around $71,450, with an average hourly income of $34.35(30).
This salary estimate is much more than the national average yearly compensation of $60,320.
This data makes Oregon one of the highest-paying states for radiologists. The compensation of rad techs also reflects the higher cost of living in Oregon, particularly in areas such as Portland and Bend.
Also, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of 2019, roughly 2,020 radiologic technologists and technicians were employed in Oregon, with a mean annual salary of $75,170(31).
- Radiology Tech Programs in Oregon
https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/oregon/ - 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/ - Ibid.
- Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Oregon
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/oregon/ - Ibid.
- Radiology Tech Programs in Oregon
https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/oregon/ - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Oregon
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/oregon/ - Education Options for Tomorrow’s Radiologic Technicians in Oregon
https://radiologyed.org/schools/oregon/ - Ibid.
- 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/ - What Does an X-Ray Technician Do?
https://www.fortis.edu/blog/healthcare/what-does-an-x-ray-technician-do.html - 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/ - Radiography
https://www.pcc.edu/programs/radiography/ - Radiologic Science
https://www.oit.edu/academics/degrees/radiologic-science - Radiology Schools in Oregon
https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/oregon.html - Education Options for Tomorrow’s Radiologic Technicians in Oregon
https://radiologyed.org/schools/oregon/ - Radiology Tech Programs in Oregon
https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/oregon/ - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Oregon
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/oregon/ - Ibid.
- Radiology Tech Programs in Oregon
https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/oregon/ - Oregon Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/oregon/ - Radiologic Science
https://www.oit.edu/academics/degrees/radiologic-science - Radiology Degrees
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/degrees/ - Education Options for Tomorrow’s Radiologic Technicians in Oregon
https://radiologyed.org/schools/oregon/ - Ibid.
- Oregon Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/oregon/ - Education Options for Tomorrow’s Radiologic Technicians in Oregon
https://radiologyed.org/schools/oregon/ - Oregon Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/oregon/ - Education Options for Tomorrow’s Radiologic Technicians in Oregon
https://radiologyed.org/schools/oregon/ - Ibid.
- Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Oregon
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/oregon/