X-ray Tech Schools in Iowa

  • X-ray technicians are skilled at identifying medical issues that may require immediate treatment(1). Radiologic technicians usually require a year or two of training before working in the field. 
  • An individual can be a limited radiologic technologist or a full-time radiologic technologist, depending on their experience level(3).
  • The IDPH or Iowa Department of Public Health requires all healthcare providers in the state, including radiologic technologists, to have a permit to practice medicine in their chosen field(4)
  • Radiologic technologists and technicians are likely to have a higher rate of employment growth in Iowa, with 11.6% between 2018 and 2028, according to Projections Central(5)
  • According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average radiologist in Iowa can expect to earn about $51,780 annually(6). This figure is significantly less than the national average annual wage of about $60,320

Best X-ray Tech Schools in Iowa

The following table is to help applicants readily compare all of the medical imaging programs, such as radiologic technology in Iowa(7)

It is recommended that students consult with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) to see whether or not the program they want to pursue will satisfy the standards for obtaining a license

School Name Associate’s Imaging Program Bachelor’s Imaging Program Graduate Imaging Program National Accreditation
Allen College Yes Yes Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

Briar Cliff University Yes
Eastern Iowa Community College District Yes JRCERT
Indian Hills Community College Yes JRCERT
Iowa Central Community College Yes JRCERT
Mercy College of Health Sciences Yes JRCERT, CAAHEP
North Iowa Area Community College Yes
Northeast Iowa Community College Yes JRCERT
Northwest Iowa Community College Yes JRCERT
St. Luke’s College Yes JRCERT
University of Iowa Yes JRCERT

CAAHEP

Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT)

**Data on listings was retrieved last July 7, 2022. Changes in this data may reflect when new information comes in. 

List of Programs in Iowa

Here is the JRCERT accredited radiography programs in Iowa(8): 

1. Covenant Medical Center – Radiography
3421 West Ninth Street, Waterloo, IA 50702
Tel: (319) 272-7419
Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Certificate Program
Program Effectiveness Data: Completion Rate: 100%
Job Placement Rate: 95%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 91%
Tuition Fees: $3,600 Resident, $3,600 Non-resident
Duration: 24 months

2. Iowa Central Community College (Fort Dodge Center) – Radiography
One Triton Circle, Fort Dodge, IA 50501
Tel: (515) 574-1302
Program Name: Science in Radiologic Technology
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 80%
Job Placement Rate: 75%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 75%
Tuition Fees: $5,670 Resident, $7,950 Non-resident
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science Degree
Duration: 68 months

3. Allen College – Radiography
1825 Logan Avenue, Waterloo, IA 50703
Tel: (319) 226-2031
Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Associate of Science
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 100%
Job Placement Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 95%
Tuition Fees: $16,732 Resident, $16,732 Non-resident
Duration: 34 months

4. Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa – Radiography
1000 4th Street, S.W., Mason City, IA 50401
Tel: (641) 428-6079
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Certificate
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 86%
Job Placement Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 100%
Tuition Fees: $3,000 Resident, $3,000 Non-resident
Duration: 24 months

5. Mercy College of Health Sciences – Radiography
928 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309-1239
Tel: (515) 643-6616
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 71%
Job Placement Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 93%
Tuition Fees: $21,690 Resident, $21,690 Non-resident
Duration: 38 months

6. Indian Hills Community College – Radiography
525 Grandview Ave., Ottumwa, IA 52501
Tel: (641) 683-5316
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 37%
Job Placement Rate: 97%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 96%
Tuition Fees: $8,633 Resident, $11,538 Non-resident
Duration: 90 months

7. Northeast Iowa Community College (Peosta Campus) – Radiography
8342 NICC Drive, Peosta, IA 52068
Tel: (563) 556-5110
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 82%
Job Placement Rate: 97%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 87%
Tuition Fees: $6,077 Resident, $6,077 Non-resident
Duration: 40 months

8. Scott Community College – Radiography
500 Belmont Road, Bettendorf, IA 52722-5649
Tel: (563) 441-4265
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 88%
Job Placement Rate: 96%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 98%
Tuition Fees: $5,600 Resident, $8,280 Non-resident
Duration: 36 months

9. Mercy St. Luke’s Hospitals – Radiography
1026 A Avenue, N.E., Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Tel: (319) 369-7077
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Certificate
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 83.3%
Job Placement Rate: 100%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 98%
Tuition Fees: $3,750 Non-resident, $3,750 Resident
Duration: 46 months

10. UnityPoint HealthDes Moines – Radiography
1200 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA 50309-1453
Tel: (515) 241-6880
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 78%
Job Placement Rate: 97%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 98%
Tuition Fees: $3,900 Non-resident, $3,900 Resident
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 28 months

11. St. Luke’s College – Radiography
2800 Pierce Street, Sioux City, IA 51104
Tel: (712) 279-3734
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 83%
Job Placement Rate: 90%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 95%
Tuition Fees: $13,500 Non-resident,$13,500 Resident
Duration: 38 months

12. University of IowaRadiation Therapy
101 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, IA 52242
Tel: (319) 356-8286
Program Name: Radiation Therapy
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Tuition Fees: $13,615 Non-resident, $3,950 Resident
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 100%
Duration: 14 months

13. University of Iowa – Radiography
101 Jessup Hall, Iowa City, IA 52242
Tel: (319) 356-4332
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 100%
Tuition Fees: $28,000
Duration: 50 months

Applicants may also ask if their chosen program offers financial aid(9). However, this aid is not a guarantee of sure employment. Students may ask a school representative about their financial aid program and the specific qualifications of grantees. 

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

X-ray technicians are skilled at identifying medical issues that may require immediate treatment(10)

The level of difficulty of being an X-ray technician can depend on an individual’s passion for medical imaging and patient care.

In addition to taking X-rays, some technicians undergo special training to perform other specialized imaging procedures such as computerized axial tomography scans (CAT or CT scans), sonograms, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs)

Radiologic technicians usually need a year or two of training before working in the field. In addition to hands-on training, candidates can also explore various programs related to this specialization.

Meanwhile, radiologic technologists (radiographers) obtain medical images of the body using advanced imaging equipment and ionizing radiation(11).

Pathology, radiation biology, radiation protection, patient care, and ethics are some subjects addressed in the radiologic technology program(12). Radiographic techniques, imaging, and diagnostic analysis are also covered in the classes.

An individual may be a limited radiologic technologist or a full-time radiologic technologist, depending on their experience level(13).

A limited radiologic technician can only do radiography on the chest, spine, extremities, shoulder, or pediatrics. CT and fluoroscopy are not included in their scope of practice for radiography.

Meanwhile, a full radiologic technologist can perform radiography on all regions of the body.

An aspiring candidate is required to complete 24 hours of continuing education during the biennium listed on their permit to keep their radiology technician licensure current in the state of Iowa.

How to Become an X-ray Technician in Iowa?

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) requires that all healthcare providers in the state, including radiologic technologists, hold a permit to practice medicine in their chosen field(14)

Those who have successfully passed the Nuclear Medicine Technologist Certification Board (NMTCB) or American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examinations are eligible to receive a permit.

Radiology technologists, also called rad techs, must fulfill the following steps to get a license:

1. Applicants need to acquire a high school diploma(15). In most cases, this is the initial step toward obtaining a career in the healthcare industry. 

Moreover, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) advises students to enroll in math and science courses, such as:

  • Trigonometry
  • Biology
  • Physiology
  • Physics
  • Statistics
  • Chemistry
  • Anatomy

These subjects are necessary for a variety of careers:

2. The IDPH does not mandate candidates to complete specific education requirements(16)

On the other hand, the NMTCB and the ARRT require that applicants have either a specific degree or a certificate from an appropriate training program in their chosen field. 

Candidates must also have at least an associate’s degree to be considered by the ARRT.

Meanwhile, to become a licensed radiologic technologist in Iowa, an individual must complete a training program that can take approximately six months to two years(17).

Depending on the program, applicants may be able to earn a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree. However, associate degree programs are commonly used for radiologic technologists.

As of January 2015, candidates for radiologic technologist programs in the state must have at least an associate degree or higher. Programs should also have accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). 

3. After getting a degree, the applicants need to pass the ARRT or NMTCB certification exams(18).

The ARRT certification test is recognized by the IDPH for all modalities, whereas the NMTCB certification exam is recognized for certification for individuals aiming to be a nuclear medicine technologist.

4. Once the applicant passes the certification exam, they can apply for a permit. Candidates are requested to use the IDPH’s online site to submit an application, any necessary fees, and proof that they have successfully passed a certification test.

5. Applicants must renew their license every two years and complete continuing education. If they have already completed the NMTCB or ARRT certification, the current certificate should be recognized as proof of completed continuing education.

6. The IDPH provides an additional license for limited scope X-ray operators called the Limited Radiologic Technologist (LRT) permit. 

Candidates for this permit are required to complete a training program recognized by the IDPH and pass the IDPH State Limited Examination in limited radiologic technology or its equivalent.  

However, applicants must first apply for permission to take the test. If permission is granted and the applicant passes the exam, they are eligible to apply for the permit.

Meanwhile, the ARRT requires aspiring enrollees to demonstrate proficiency in 39 required radiological operations(19)

Of these operations, 30 must be performed on actual patients, while the other ten can be performed through simulation or on phantoms. Applicants must also complete four general patient care skills.

Accreditation

The JRCERT is the only agency in the country that can provide accreditation for educational programs in radiography. It is also the only agency that the U.S Department of Education recognizes(20).   

The JRCERT is a voluntary program that allows radiologic technology schools to seek programmatic accreditation. This agency promotes the quality of education and the safety and quality of patient care

Individuals who need to contact the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology can reach them through: 

Address: 20 North Wacker Drive
Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
Contact Information: 312-704-5300
Email: mail@jrcert.org
Webpage: www.jrcert.org

Internship

Through clinical internships, students gain valuable experience by interacting with patients in various medical imaging facilities(21).

Students have the opportunity to operate a wide range of medical imaging equipment, such as digital radiography, breast tomosynthesis, digital mammography, and fluoroscopy.

Trainees must spend between 20 and 30 hours per week in radiologic technology studies on campus(22). Moreover, they need clinical rotations at an allocated medical institution to get clinical experience

In other school programs, the curriculum consists of six continuous classroom and laboratory study semesters and five semesters of clinical education(23). This rate compares to the anticipated 9% job growth rate nationwide within the same period.

Career Opportunities for X-ray Techs

Radiologic technologists and technicians are likely to have a stronger rate of employment growth in Iowa, with 11.6% between 2018 and 2028, according to figures provided by Projections Central(24)

This rate compares to the anticipated rate of 9% job growth nationwide within the same period.

There is no record of occupational information maintained by the BLS for limited-scope X-ray technicians. However, due to the lower educational requirements and the decreased work responsibility, restricted scope technicians often receive a lower salary than fully licensed radiologic technicians.

Despite hospitals being the most common place for finding a job as a radiologic technologist, working in healthcare facilities such as medical offices and clinics is also becoming more attractive(25).

A radiologic technologist‘s certification in various subspecialties can provide them with a great job opportunity. Individuals who want to pursue a career in this field can also enhance their skills by becoming medical sonographers.

After graduating from a radiologic technology program, individuals can start working in sonography. This field allows them to specialize in various areas and may lead to various certifications.

Moreover, one more option that can be considered for professional development is becoming a nuclear medicine technologist(26).  Individuals who have earned a degree in radiologic technology may take an additional year to fulfill the requirements for a certificate in nuclear medicine technology.

X-ray Tech Salary in Iowa

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), around 2,310 people were working as rad techs in the state as of 2019(27).

As of 2019, the average yearly wage for radiologic technologists in Iowa was $52,770(28).

Meanwhile, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average radiologist in Iowa can expect to earn about $51,780 annually or $24.90 hourly(29).

This projection is significantly less than the national average annual wage of about $60,320(30). However, the state’s lower cost of living helps keep the expenditures down.

In other states, the average earnings of a qualified technologist are expected to range from around $38,180 to $67,900(31). Factors affecting a technologist’s salary include the applicant’s job title, experience level, and employer.


31 Sources

  1. What Does an X-Ray Technician Do?
    https://www.fortis.edu/blog/healthcare/what-does-an-x-ray-technician-do.html
  2. BECOME A RADIOGRAPHER
    https://www.mchs.edu/Academics/Associate-Degrees/Radiologic-Technology
  3. Iowa Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/iowa/
  4. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Iowa
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/iowa/
  5. Ibid.
  6. Jumpstart a New Career in Medical Imaging in Iowa
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/iowa/
  7. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Iowa
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/iowa/
  8. Jumpstart a New Career in Medical Imaging in Iowa
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/iowa/
  9. Radiology Schools in Iowa
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/iowa.html
  10. What Does an X-Ray Technician Do?
    https://www.fortis.edu/blog/healthcare/what-does-an-x-ray-technician-do.html
  11. BECOME A RADIOGRAPHER
    https://www.mchs.edu/Academics/Associate-Degrees/Radiologic-Technology
  12. Radiologic Technology (may include BI, CT, CVI or MRI)
    https://medicine.uiowa.edu/radsci/programs/radiologic-technology
  13. Iowa Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/iowa/
  14. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Iowa
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/iowa/
  15. Radiology Schools in Iowa
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/iowa.html
  16. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Iowa
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/iowa/
  17. Iowa Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/iowa/
  18. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Iowa
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/iowa/
  19. Iowa Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/iowa/
  20. Radiologic Technology Program (X-ray)
    https://www.mercyone.org/northiowa/careers/graduate-medical-education/radiologic-technology-program-x-ray/
  21. Radiologic Technology (may include BI, CT, CVI or MRI)
    https://medicine.uiowa.edu/radsci/programs/radiologic-technology
  22. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Iowa
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/iowa/
  23. Ibid.
  24. Ibid.
  25. Iowa Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/iowa/
  26. Ibid.
  27. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Iowa
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/iowa/
  28. Ibid.
  29. Jumpstart a New Career in Medical Imaging in Iowa
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/iowa/
  30. Ibid.
  31. Ibid.
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