X-ray Tech Schools in Alabama

  • Universities, career schools, colleges, and other learning institutions in Alabama offer radiology programs(1). These programs prepare students how to become skilled radiology technicians by mastering X-ray imaging techniques or sonography. 
  • Before individuals can start working as an X-ray tech, they must meet various requirements(2). Students need an accredited postsecondary X-ray program, which usually takes two years(3). Schools also require externships and training.
  • A license to practice for radiologic technologists is not a requirement from the Alabama Department of Public Health(4). However, candidates should register with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, the national organization that certifies medical imaging professionals.
  • The number of radiologic tech positions in Alabama is expected to grow by 7.1% through 2028(5). According to the Alabama Department of Labor, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a radiologic technologist‘s average yearly compensation in 2019 was $46,490(6). 

List of X-ray Tech Schools in Alabama

The table below compares all of the radiologic technology and medical imaging programs in Alabama that are not-for-profit on a range of criteria(7). However, students need to confirm with the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) that the program they want to pursue will comply with the standards for obtaining a license.

School Name Associate’s Imaging Program Bachelor’s Degree in Imaging Program Graduate Imaging Program National Accreditation Completion Rate Credential Exam Pass Rate Job Placement Rate Net Price
Southern Union State Community College Yes — — JRCERT 66% 87% 92% $8,278
Lawson State Community College Yes — — — 84% 98% 97% $7,897
University of South Alabama — Yes — JRCERT 81% 87% 97% $13,624
Gadsden State Community College Yes — — JRCERT, CAAHEP 75% 90% 99% $4,960
Jefferson State Community College Yes — — JRCERT 79% 93% 100% $8,525
Wallace Community College–Dothan Yes — — JRCERT 73% 81% 100% $2,347
Trenholm State Community College Yes — — JRCERT, CAAHEP N.Av. N.Av. N.Av. $7,850
Lurleen S. Wallace Community College Yes — — CAAHEP — — — $8,127
University of Alabama at Birmingham — — Yes JRCNMT — — — $17,068
Wallace State Community College–Hanceville Yes — — JRCERT, CAAHEP — — — $7,094

**Data retrieved on July 8, 2022. Changes may reflect when new information or data comes in.

List of Programs

Here is the list of Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredited radiography programs in Alabama(8):

1. Crestwood Medical Center – Radiography

Program Name: Radiology
Program Type: Certificate program
Duration: 16 months
One Hospital Drive, S.E., Huntsville, AL 35801
Tel: (256) 429-5634

2. George C. Wallace Community College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology program
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 55 months
1141 Wallace Drive, Dothan, AL 36303
Tel: (334) 556-2299

3. DCH Regional Medical Center – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 40 months
809 University Blvd., East, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Tel: (205) 759-6009

4. Gadsden State Community College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 48 months
1001 George Wallace Drive, Gadsden, AL 35903
Tel: (256) 549-8469

5. Southern Union State Community College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 66 months
1701 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801
Tel: (334) 745-6437

6. H. Councill Trenholm State Community College – Radiography

Program Name: Medical Radiologic technology
Program Type: Associate in Applied Technology
Duration: 57 months
1225 Air Base Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36108
Tel: (334) 420-4342

7. Huntsville Hospital – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Associate of Occupational Technology
Duration: 30 months
101 Sivley Road, Huntsville, AL 35801
Tel: (256) 265-8928

8. Jefferson State Community College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 80 months
4600 Valleydale Road, Birmingham, AL 35242
Tel: (205) 983-5218

9. Wallace State Community College – Radiography

Program Name: Diagnostic imaging
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 83 months
801 Main Street, Hanceville, AL 35077
Tel: (256) 352-8309

10. University of South Alabama – Radiation Therapy

Program Name: Radiation therapy
Program Type: Certificate (Post-Baccalaureate)
Duration: 12 months
Department of Radiologic Sciences, Mobile, AL 36688-0002
Tel: (251) 445-9355

11. University of South Alabama – Radiography

Department of Radiologic Sciences, Mobile, AL 36688
Tel: (251) 445-9351
Program Name: Radiologic sciences
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Duration: 98 months

Here is the list of specific programs offered by the following radiology schools(9): 

1. Southern College – surgical technology, Associate of Applied Science (AAS)2. Fortis Institute – radiologic technology
3. Fortis College – surgical technology, diploma
4. Keiser University – radiologic technology, (Associate of Science) AS
5. Southern Technical College – surgical technology, AAS
6. South College

  • Diagnostic medical sonography, AS
  • Radiologic technology, AS
  • Computed tomography, certificate
  • Health science, Bachelor of Science (BS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
  • Radiological sciences, BS

7. Miller-Motte College – surgical technology, AAS
8. McCann School of Business and Technology – surgical technology, Associate in Occupational Studies
9. Sullivan University 

  • Limited medical radiography diploma
  • Radiologic technology
  • Surgical technology

10. Brookline College- surgical technology, AS

Financial aid is available in some radiology schools(10). However, the goal of this financial program is to provide students with educational opportunities, not a guarantee of employment. Applicants should consult a school representative to learn more about the financial aid program.

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

Aspiring X-ray technicians can work in the field of radiology with an associate’s degree. However, most will pursue a bachelor’s degree before entering the profession. 

Meanwhile, radiologic technologists are qualified by education and clinical experience(11). A radiologic technologist produces optimal radiography quality while minimizing the patient’s radiation exposure.

What Is an X-ray Technician?

X-ray technicians help medical professionals provide the best possible care to their patients(12). They use special equipment to record X-ray images that radiologists analyze. They also perform various duties such as positioning patients and ensuring that the X-ray images are of the highest quality.

Universities, career schools, colleges, and other learning institutions offer programs in the field of radiology(13). These programs teach individuals how to become skilled radiology technicians.

Also, the curriculum is designed to prepare students for careers in medical imaging, such as sonography or X-ray imaging(14). Students should also take practical lessons on various technologies to become skilled technicians.

How to Become an X-ray Technician in Alabama

Before individuals can start working as a rad tech, they must meet various requirements(15). A high school diploma is also essential to ensure individuals can continue pursuing their goals.

First, individuals must have an accredited postsecondary program in X-ray technology to graduate. Most of the associate degrees in radiologic technology programs take about two years to finish(16). In addition to regular training, individuals also need to complete various externships. These trainings are designed to provide students with hands-on experience in the field. 

Although different requirements apply in every state, individuals still need to be licensed to work as an X-ray technician. After obtaining a license, they can then pursue certification from the American Radiologic Technologists or the ARRT.

Some of the coursework that individuals need include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, psychology, health science, radiographic physics, and image production.

What Is a Radiologic Technologist?

Radiologic technologists are medical professionals who diagnose and help treat various medical conditions using imaging tests(17). These individuals are also known as radiographers and radiology technicians. To become a certified rad technologist in Alabama, students must complete training in multiple medical disciplines, including:

  • Radiology
  • Biology
  • Physics
  • Pathology

In most programs, students will learn the necessary skills to perform various medical procedures such as imaging tests, radiotherapy, and mammography. While learning these skills, students can also specialize in one of these areas.

How to Become a Radiologic Technologist in Alabama 

Although the Alabama Department of Public Health does not require that radiologic technologists be licensed to practice in the state, applicants can still register with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)(18). This national organization provides a framework for the credentialing of medical imaging professionals.

In Alabama, there is no requirement for a radiologic technologist to be licensed to practice(19). However, this does not mean that individuals interested in becoming certified technologists will not go through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)certification process.

To be eligible for ARRT certification, candidates must complete an associate’s degree program in their chosen field(20). 

Most employers in the state require individuals certified by the ARRT to have at least two years of residency in addition to their two years attending the program in an accredited school(21). 

In some programs, every student must participate in a clinical rotation each semester(22). These clinical rotations are often available in various clinics, hospitals, and other medical facilities.

In other school programs, the first two years of the curriculum are spent in the pre-professional phase, pursuing general education courses(23).

In the first autumn, spring, and summer, they will take general radiography courses, such as patient care, contrast media, and radiation biology. Students will choose between general radiography, ultrasound, and radiation therapy specializations in the final year.

After successfully completing the educational requirements, applicants should take the ARRT exam(24). They should also have a score of 75 or better to be certified. The applicants may take the exam on or before 365 days.

Applicants who are registered as technologists are required to maintain their certification and registration(25). They must also complete at least 24 credits of continuing education every two years.

Also, individuals handling X-ray equipment in Alabama must have a license from the state’s radiation control program(26). These individuals can then get an ID card from the Bureau of Radiation Control. 

After securing the ID card, applicants can start working with imaging equipment. After five years, they will need to take a retest for license renewal. 

Accreditation

The  JRCERT or Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology was established in 1969. The committee’s responsibility is to review and evaluate the educational programs in medical dosimetry, magnetic resonance, radiation therapy, and radiography(27). 

JRCERT is the only organization recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) as an agency that focuses on the certification of the programs mentioned above. 

JRCERT Information: 

Address: 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850,
Chicago, Illinois  60606-3182
Phone: 312-704-5300
Email:  mail@jrcert.org
Website:  www.JRCERT.org

Career Opportunities

Many skilled and experienced radiology techs are needed in Alabama to fill the various jobs that are becoming available, in positions such as(28):

  • Radiologic technologist
  • X-ray technician
  • Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI Technician
  • Radiologist (MD)
  • Ultrasound technician

In the Dothan metropolitan area, there are about 3.25 rad tech jobs for every 1,000 work opportunities(29). Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not provide data for limited scope X-rays technicians, these professionals are believed to earn less than their counterparts. 

Around 3,500 career opportunities are currently available in Alabama(30). Most of these radiologic technicians work in hospitals, imaging centers, physician offices, and clinics. 

In another report, the number of radiologic tech positions in Alabama is expected to grow by 7.1% through 2028(31). This figure is slightly below the projected increase for the country, which is at 9% in the same period. 

Many organizations in the state provide various opportunities for radiology technicians positions which are primarily state-owned(32). 

Salary

In Alabama, the annual salary for a radiologic technologist is around 23% less than the national average. The cost of living index is around 11% less than the national average(33).

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Alabama Department of Labor, the average annual salary of a radiologic technologist in the state of Alabama was $46,490 in 2019(34). This data is above the state’s median income of $44,930.

There is a broad range of compensation for radiology-related positions. The following table shows the average salary for radiology positions in Alabama(35):

Career Total Employment Annual Mean Wage
Radiologic Technologists 3,550 47,670
Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians 600 51,250
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists 510 59,150
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers 1,130 55,750
Nuclear Medicine Technologists 360 61,310

**Data retrieved on July 8, 2022. Changes may reflect when new information or data comes in.

FAQs

1. How do I become an X-ray tech in Alabama?

In Alabama, there is no requirement for radiologic technologists to be licensed to practice(36). This information does not imply that those who want to become certified technologists do not have to pass the ARRT exam.

Also, most employers in the state require ARRT-certified employees to have two years of residence in addition to two years of schooling in an accredited school(37).

Applicants who are registered as technologists are required to maintain their certification and registration(38). They must also complete at least 24 credit hours of continuing education every two years.

2. How long does it take to complete an X-ray tech program?

To graduate, individuals must have an accredited postsecondary program in X-ray technology(39). Most programs take about two years to finish. In addition to regular training, individuals also need to complete various externships.

3. What kind of schooling does an  X-ray tech need?

Before individuals can start working as an X-ray tech, they must meet various requirements(40). A high school diploma is also essential to ensure aspiring X-ray technicians can continue pursuing their goals.

Although requirements differ in various states, individuals still need to be licensed to work as X-ray technician. After obtaining a license, individuals can then pursue certification from the ARRT.

To be eligible for ARRT certification, candidates must have at least an associate’s degree in their chosen field in radiology(41). 

In most programs, students will learn the necessary skills to perform various medical procedures such as imaging tests, radiotherapy, and mammography. While learning these skills, students can also specialize in one of these areas(42).

4. How much does an X-ray tech make in Alabama?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Alabama Department of Labor, the average annual salary of a radiologic technologist in the state of Alabama was $46,490 in 2019(43). This data is above the state’s median income of $44,930.

43 Sources

  1. Radiology Tech Programs in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/alabama/
  2. What Is the Process of Becoming an X-Ray Technician?
    https://www.cambridgehealth.edu/blog/what-is-the-process-of-becoming-an-x-ray-technician/
  3. Ibid.
  4. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  5. Ibid.
  6. Alabama – Schools, Programs and Career Options
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/alabama/
  7. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  8. Alabama – Schools, Programs and Career Options
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/alabama/
  9. Radiology Schools in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/alabama.html
  10. Ibid.
  11. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  12. What Is the Process of Becoming an X-Ray Technician?
    https://www.cambridgehealth.edu/blog/what-is-the-process-of-becoming-an-x-ray-technician/
  13. Radiology Tech Programs in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/alabama/
  14. Ibid.
  15. What Is the Process of Becoming an X-Ray Technician?
    https://www.cambridgehealth.edu/blog/what-is-the-process-of-becoming-an-x-ray-technician/
  16. Ibid.
  17. Alabama Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/alabama/
  18. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  19. Radiology Tech Programs in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/alabama/
  20. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  21. Radiology Tech Programs in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/alabama/
  22. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  23. Ibid.
  24. Ibid.
  25. Ibid.
  26. Radiology Schools in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/alabama.html
  27. About JRCERT
    https://www.jrcert.org/about-jrcert/
  28. Radiology Schools in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/alabama.html
  29. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  30. Radiology Tech Programs in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/alabama/
  31. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  32. Radiology Tech Programs in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/alabama/
  33. Alabama – Schools, Programs and Career Options
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/alabama/
  34. Ibid.
  35. Radiology Schools in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/alabama.html
  36. Radiology Tech Programs in Alabama
    https://www.radiology-technician.com/radiology-tech-programs-by-state/alabama/
  37. Ibid.
  38. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  39. What Is the Process of Becoming an X-Ray Technician?
    https://www.cambridgehealth.edu/blog/what-is-the-process-of-becoming-an-x-ray-technician/
  40. Ibid.
  41. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Alabama
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/alabama/
  42. Alabama Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/alabama/
  43. Alabama – Schools, Programs and Career Options
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/alabama/
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