- Healthcare professionals in imaging commonly use radiographers, X-ray technologists, and rad techs(1). However, the term “radiologic technologist” is not just a name for a radiologic technician.
- Students must confirm with the Connecticut State Department of Public Health (DPH) that the program they want to take meets licensure requirements(2).
- High school diploma holders may become radiologic technologists(3). Acquiring a diploma in high school is the first step to becoming a medical technologist.
Also, radiologic technologists must get a bachelor’s degree after earning an associate’s degree. Associate in applied science degrees are prevalent in this sector.
List of X-ray Tech Schools in CT
Depending on the program students choose, those enrolled in a radiology technician training program can spend up to four years in school(4). On the other hand, associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs usually take about two to four years.
The United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) only recognize the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) for the accreditation of distance and traditional delivery educational programs in radiation therapy, radiography, medical dosimetry, and magnetic resonance.
Also, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) is the leading programmatic accreditor for careers in the health sciences.
Lastly, the CHEA recognizes the JRCNMT (Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology) to accredit postsecondary nuclear medical technology programs.
The table allows for an easy comparison of all non-profit radiologic technology and medical imaging programs in Connecticut(5). Students should verify with the Connecticut State Department of Public Health (DPH) that the program they are considering meets licensing standards.
| School Name | Associate’s Degree in Imaging Program | Bachelor’s Imaging Program | Graduate Imaging Program | National Accreditation | Completion Rate2 | Credential Exam Pass Rate 2 | Job Placement Rate 2 | Net Price1 |
| Capital Community College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 71% | 78% | 95% | $7,752 |
| Gateway Community College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT, CAAHEP, JRCNMT | 70% | 93% | 100% | $6,736 |
| Manchester Community College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 92% | 0% | 0% | $7,312 |
| Middlesex Community College | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 76% | 84% | 100% | $4,872 |
| Naugatuck Valley Community College Waterbury | Yes | — | — | JRCERT | 90% | 97% | 96% | $6,525 |
| Quinnipiac University Hamden | — | Yes | Yes | JRCERT | 85% | 98% | 96% | $41,636 |
| Sacred Heart University Bridgeport | Yes | Yes | — | JRCERT | 43% | 85% | 97% | $41,570 |
| University of Hartford | — | Yes | — | JRCERT | 87% | 88% | 99% | $29,141 |
| Yale-New Haven Hospital or Yale University (Certificate Programs Only) | — | — | — | CAAHEP | — | — | — | $18,073 |
**Data retrieved on May 16, 2022. Changes may occur when new information comes in.
List of Radiology Technologist Programs in CT
Here are the sample programs of select schools in Connecticut with the Radiology Technologist Degree Program(6):
1. Gateway Community College
Gateway Community College (GCC) offers an Associate of Science (AS) in Diagnostic Imaging and Therapy. Radiography helps students prepare for jobs as radiographers and fulfills the prerequisites for taking the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification test.
The 20-month program is progressive, building on preceding classroom and clinical study semesters. Students will participate in clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare institutions during regular semesters, winter, and summer vacations.
Each student will have at least three evening rotations scheduled. Quality Assurance, Radiographic Imaging, and Physics in Radiography are subjects taught in the classroom. Applicants must finish all required courses with a grade of at least 75 and a minimum GPA of 2.70.
All courses must be completed by attaining a grade of “C” or above to continue in the Radiography program. In addition to programs in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nuclear Medicine Technology, and Radiation Therapy, the AS in Diagnostic Imaging and Therapy provides programs in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nuclear Medicine Technology, and Radiation Therapy.
2. Capital Community College
Students who successfully complete the two-year curriculum at Capital Community College (CCC) get an Associate of Science (AS) in Radiologic Technology degree. Students in the program are required to follow a prescribed schedule of courses.
Clinical rotations will commence in the first semester and include rotations throughout the first year’s winter break and each following semester. For students who cannot complete clinical rotations during the day, a limited number of nighttime rotations are provided.
The courses in radiologic technology include Anatomy and Physiology, Radiobiology and Safety, and Radiographic Seminar. Graduates will be qualified to take the ARRT certification examination.
Admission to the program is contingent on completing necessary coursework, the GPA in any prior radiologic technology courses, and the SAT and TEAS test results.
3. University of Hartford
The University of Hartford (UHart) offers a four-year Radiologic Technology Bachelor of Science (BS) degree program. Before starting the professional program in the next two years, students must complete the required courses in their first year.
The minimal GPA necessary to continue in the professional program is 2.50. After their junior year, students will have completed their radiologic technology courses, making them eligible for an Associate of Science (AS) degree, the ARRT certification test, and employment.
Also, students may specialize in computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound (US) during their fourth year.
Students will finish the courses for the bachelor of science degree during the final year and may seek certificate programs in other subjects.
The undergraduate curriculum comprises courses in general education and radiologic technology and practical training in a fully-functioning lab on campus. Clinical rotations occur at affiliated medical institutions, such as Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, Manchester Memorial Hospital, and Open MRI of Connecticut.
4. Middlesex Community College
The Radiologic Technology Associate of Science (AS) degree at Middlesex Community College (MCC) may be earned in 22 months. This curriculum is intended to prepare students for entry-level radiologic technology careers.
The program’s academic component is conducted at MCC, and the laboratory and clinical components are completed at Middlesex Healthcare Systems facilities. Clinical education on campus will include radiobiology, health care, and general education.
All students must complete a five-month internship during the program’s final semester. Slots in the program are restricted due to the capacity of the clinical center. Thus, admission is competitive.
Before applying to the radiologic technology program, students must fulfill MCC’s general admissions standards, accomplish the required coursework, and complete a two-hour clinical observation.
The final admission decision will depend on the application, a faculty interview, and a background check.
X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program
Although there are many promising careers in healthcare, many people do not know about the many job titles that come with a degree in radiography or X-ray technology(7). Many individuals who graduate from these programs only need to go to school for two years to become certified radiologic technologists.
Radiographers, X-ray technologists, and rad tech work in the field of imaging. However, the term “radiologic technologist” is not just a name for a radiologic technician.
X-ray technologists have a wide range of experience and knowledge in medical imaging, capable of handling challenging situations.
Unlike an X-ray technician, a radiologic technologist is a highly skilled individual who can perform various imaging procedures, such as X-rays.
What Is an X-ray Technician?
An X-ray technician uses an X-ray machine to capture radiographic images of patients to assist healthcare providers in the diagnosing process(8). Additionally, X-ray images may be utilized to choose and implement an effective treatment strategy. X-ray technicians may be responsible for the following:
- Utilizing X-ray equipment to take pictures of various body parts
- Adjusting X-ray machines as necessary to achieve clear and precise imaging
- Evaluating, interpreting, and reporting imaging X-ray findings
- Making therapy recommendations based on X-ray findings
- Providing comfort to the patient and radiation protection
How to Become a Radiology Technologist in Connecticut
High school students can start their career as radiologic technologists by obtaining a high school diploma(9). This is the first step in their path to becoming successful medical technologists.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, students who want to pursue a radiology career may benefit from taking math and science courses, such as chemistry, physiology, biology, and physics(10).
After graduating with an associate degree, students must start working toward a college degree to become successful radiologic technologists. An associate of applied science is one of the most common degrees for those hoping to pursue this field.
Most states require that a person who wants to practice as a radiographer in Connecticut must have a license or certification. To check the requirements for Connecticut, visit the ARRT’s website or the state’s official website.
Admission Criteria and Prerequisites
In states that require radiologic technicians to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) test, a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree is necessary(11). In Connecticut, obtaining a bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for taking the AART test, which is a statutory requirement.
The preparations for a career in radiology technology throughout high school is not too early. Human sciences courses are required, such as anatomy, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics courses.
In college, students should anticipate a challenging curriculum consisting of classes that expand on the fundamentals learned in high school and pathology, radiation physics and protection, and image analysis.
Compassionate patient care and radiography treatments are also provided.
There is also a frequent alternation between classroom time and clinical investigations. Clinical studies expose students to the practical application of the complicated technology they must operate and the psychology related to dealing with patients facing significant mental or physical pain.
Program Goals and Learning Outcomes
Here are examples of radiography program goals and learning outcomes(12):
1. Students will communicate effectively
1.1 Students will develop strong written communication abilities through practice.
1.2 Students will use effective oral communication with a range of clinical audiences.
2. In the clinical context, students will display critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
2.1 Students will evaluate the diagnostic quality of photographs.
2.2 Students will modify patient positioning according to patient assessment.
3. Students will exhibit clinical competency in radiography practice.
3.1 Students will show awareness of basic radiation safety techniques.
3.2 Students will conduct radiographic imaging procedures proficiently.
4. Students will exhibit professional conduct.
4.1 Students will exhibit professional ethics.
4.2 Students will engage in professional development activities with regional, state, and national organizations.
Accreditation
Accreditation affects licensing and the ability to transfer credits to another school, such as if individuals want to gain a new modality certification or transfer to a four-year degree after finishing a two-year program(13).
Regional (sometimes called institutional) and programmatic accreditation are important. Regional accreditation implies a school is accredited by one of six U.S. Department of Education-approved regional accreditors.
Some states require accreditation for rad tech certification, and most credentialing tests need graduates from approved schools.
This certification is essential for federal student loans and other financial aid. Regionally accredited schools demand transfer credits from other regionally accredited schools.
The second is programmatic accreditation. A specialist organization accredits a program.
In medical imaging, there are three primary program accreditors:
- The Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT)
- The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
- The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Accreditation signifies quality since programs must pass a rigorous evaluation and screening process. Many jurisdictions and exam administrators consider programmatic accreditation in licensing. These three accreditors each recognize various modalities.
JRCERT is the sole organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit degree programs in radiologic technology. These JRCERT-accredited programs are radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and dosimetry.
Also, JRCERT annually releases program effectiveness data (credentialing test pass rate, job placement rate, and program completion rate) for all authorized programs(14).
The program effectiveness data is at the bottom of the program detail screen. Students can search for more information about JRCERT at www.jrcert.org
Meanwhile, CAAHEP and JRCNMT are minor medical imaging accreditors. CAAHEP accredited diploma- through master’s-level health education programs, including advanced cardiovascular sonography and diagnostic medical sonography.
JRCNMT accredited nuclear medicine programs. Graduates from non-JRCNMT recognized schools may still be able to take the ARRT tests.
Students can check with the state’s RT licensing board for particular criteria in the modalities they want to practice.
Career Opportunities and Salary
Connecticut has a high quality of life but is also highly expensive(15). Radiologic science is a booming sector with well-paying jobs that may help Connecticut citizens earn more than the average yearly wage.
In Connecticut, positions for radiologic technologists and technicians are anticipated to increase by 4%, or 100 jobs, between 2018 and 2028(16). Nationally, a 9% increase in employment is anticipated for rad technologists during the same period.
As of 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the average annual compensation of the 2,280 radiologic techs employed in Connecticut was $69,400. Although the BLS does not collect occupational statistics for X-ray technicians, technicians often earn less than RTs owing to lesser educational requirements and job duties.
Radiologic technologists and technicians are employed in several locations, including physician’s offices, imaging centers, medical facilities, and hospitals.
In Connecticut, Jefferson Radiology, Midstate Radiology Associates, Advanced Medical Imaging of Northwest Connecticut, Yale New Haven Hospital, Greenwich Hospital, and Stamford Health are significant employers of radiologic technologists and technicians.
- 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/ - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Connecticut
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/connecticut/ - Steps To Become A Radiologic Technologist
Https://Www.Medicaltechnologyschools.Com/Radiologic-Technologist/How-To-Become-A-Rad-Tech - Ibid.
- Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Connecticut
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/connecticut/ - 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/ - Learn About Being an X-ray Technician
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-an-x-ray-technician-do - Radiology Schools in Tennessee
https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/tennessee.html - Ibid.
- Connecticut Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/connecticut/ - Associate in Science
https://gatewayct.edu/Radiography - Radiology Degrees
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/degrees/ - Program Effectiveness Data
https://www.jrcert.org/program-effectiveness-data/ - Become a Radiologic Technologist in Connecticut
https://radiologyed.org/schools/connecticut/ - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Connecticut
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/connecticut/