X-ray Tech Schools in MA

  • Individuals in Massachusetts may pursue a degree in radiology from various colleges and universities, including programs leading to an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree(1). 
  • Full-time students can finish an associate’s degree in as little as two years in community colleges, while part-time students may need as long as three years to complete their studies(2). There are other bachelor of science programs that last four years. 
  • Students may acquire a postsecondary diploma or degree(3). The level the students require will depend on the type of radiology employment students want to pursue. According to BLS or the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic technologists often have an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. 
  • A radiographer‘s hourly pay in MA is $33.51, with an annual mean of $82,080(4). It does not matter where a radiologist works. Outpatient imaging clinics and government institutions always have the highest pay rates.

List of X-ray Tech Schools

Using the following table, students can quickly compare all of Massachusetts‘ not-for-profit radiology technology and medical imaging programs on a range of criteria(5). 

Students can check with the Massachusetts Radiation Control Program (RCP) to see whether the program students are interested in will fulfill licensing criteria before enrolling.

School Name Associate’s Imaging Program Bachelor’s Imaging Program Graduate Imaging Program National Accreditation Completion Rate Net Price
Bunker Hill Community College Yes — — JRCERT, CAAHEP 86% $8,358
Boston University — — Yes — — $29,479
Laboure College Yes — — JRCERT 86% $27,743
Holyoke Community College Yes — — JRCERT 73% $7,321
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts — Yes — JRCERT 75% $15,418
Massachusetts Bay Community College Yes — — JRCERT 87% $9,322
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University-Boston — Yes Yes JRCERT, CAAHEP, JRCNMT 82% $39,112
Massasoit Community College Yes — — JRCERT 92% $8,571
Middlesex Community College Yes — — JRCERT, CAAHEP 85% $5,294
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University-Worcester — Yes — CAAHEP — $39,112
North Shore Community College Yes — — JRCERT 82% $8,799
Quinsigamond Community College Yes — — JRCERT 90% $6,972
Northern Essex Community College Yes — — JRCERT 88% $7,941
Roxbury Community College Yes — — JRCERT 100% $11,489
Regis College Yes Yes — JRCERT, CAAHEP, JRCNMT 69% $32,047
Springfield Technical Community College Yes — — JRCERT, CAAHEP 73% $8,759
Salem State University — Yes — JRCNMT — $17,720
University of Massachusetts-Lowell — Yes Yes — — $18,183
Suffolk University — Yes Yes JRCERT 75% $33,105

**Data retrieved on June 14, 2022. Changes may occur when new information comes in.

List of Programs

Individuals in Massachusetts can pursue a degree in radiology from various colleges and universities, including programs leading to an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree(6). 

Full-time students can finish an associate’s degree in as little as two years in community colleges, while part-time students may need as long as three years to complete their studies(7). There are other bachelor of science programs that last four years. 

Here is an example of schools offering two-year associate of science programs(8):

  • North Shore Community College, Danvers
  • Regis College, Medford
  • Holyoke Community College, Holyoke
  • Massasoit Community College, Brockton
  • Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester
  • Roxbury Community College, Boston
  • Middlesex Community College, Bedford
  • Bunker Hill Community College, Boston
  • Northern Essex Community College, Lawrence
  • MassBay Community College, Framingham
  • Springfield Technical Community College, Springfield

Meanwhile, here is the list of schools offering bachelor of science degree programs(9): 

  • Mass College of Pharmacy
  • Regis College

In some institutions, students that qualify may be eligible to receive financial help. Check the school website’s financial aid for more information(10). 

Some of the programs available are the following(11):

What Is an X-ray Technician?

X-ray technicians assist physicians and other medical personnel in treating patients(12). These medical professionals collect X-ray images for radiologists to review and analyze using specialized technology. 

Technicians are often responsible for positioning patients appropriately for X-rays and producing quality images.

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

Many prospective students may have heard of a radiologist, the medical practitioner responsible for the diagnosis and recommendation of treatment choices(13). However, students may be unaware of the many careers available at the technologist or technician level. These occupations consist of:

  • X-ray technician
  • Nuclear medicine technologist
  • Ultrasound technician
  • Cardiovascular technologist
  • MRI technician
  • Radiologic technologist

Meanwhile, radiologic technologists assist doctors in diagnosing a patient’s injury or sickness through X-rays and other imaging modalities(14). Patient positioning, examination methods, equipment protocols, radiation safety, and patient care are emphasized heavily in their training(15). 

Radiologic technologists may do general radiography or specialize in a particular imaging technique, such as:

A full-time, 21-month associate degree program in radiologic technology is meant to teach the student radiographer. Clinical training in affiliated local hospitals is an integral part of the curriculum. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) offers a certification examination for those who complete this JRCERT-accredited curriculum.  

The R.T. (R)–Registered Technologist certificate is given upon passing the test, and the radiographer is now eligible to apply for a Massachusetts radiographer license.

How to Become a Radiology Technologist in Massachusetts

Creating diagnostic images is the most basic duty of a radiological technician. However, the responsibilities may expand significantly based on the educational path(16). 

This career path could be pursued by following these steps:

1. Students may obtain a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED). In most healthcare fields, including radiology, this is the standard initial step. 

The BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) recommends that high school students take college-level anatomy, biology, and chemistry courses to prepare for college.

2. Students may acquire a postsecondary diploma or degree. The level the students require will depend on the type of radiology employment students want to pursue. According to BLS or the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic technologists often have an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. 

However, a postsecondary certificate or a bachelor’s degree may be sufficient for certain positions. In any case, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCET) is a good source of information on recognized programs.

3. Students may check whether working in Massachusetts requires extra licenses or certificates. Many states, although not all, require licensure. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is an excellent place for further information about certification criteria.

Also, students may find the information helpful through professional organizations like the state branch of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and the Massachusetts Society of Radiology Technologists (MSRT).

Admission Criteria and Prerequisites

Massachusetts‘ radiologic technologists must have a state license, which is valid for two years(17). The state certification test or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists(ARRT) certification exam may be used to get a radiologic technology license in 36 additional states in the United States. 

To maintain a license in Massachusetts, one must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years(18).

Program Goals and Outcomes

In most school programs, students are introduced to the technical abilities required to create excellent radiographs. These radiographs are then used by radiologists and other clinicians to diagnose illness and injuries(19). 

Radiation safety principles and procedures, as well as ideas and theory, are emphasized. Through practical and clinical rotations at a local hospital, this knowledge is reinforced and put into clinical experience. 

The theory is presented systematically, taking students through patient-centered radiograph production tasks. 

Students have the chance to examine different diagnostic imaging modalities, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, while enrolled in the program. Numerous radiologic technology program graduates pursue further professional certificates by continuing their studies.

Generally, the objective of the radiography program is to create a high-quality learning environment that prepares a diverse group of radiographers for the changing workforce. 

Through clinical collaborations, students will deliver the best quality patient care, use the standards, execute various diagnostic procedures, and engage in professional lifetime learning activities.

Here are examples of program goals(20):

  • Students will demonstrate clinical competence
  • Students will display critical thinking 
  • Students will enhance their communication skills

Other school program goals include(21): 

  • Students will show exam-specific positioning skills and technological considerations
  • Students will practice radiation protection techniques on patients, themselves, and others

Meanwhile, here are some of the learning outcomes(22):

  • Students will practice radiation safety in accordance with correct guidelines
  • Students will correctly position patients
  • Students will demonstrate professional conduct
  • Students will perform successfully in non-routine examinations
  • Students will change exposure indices and technical aspects

Accreditation

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) currently accredits traditional and online master’s accredited programs in radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance, and medical dosimetry(23). The organization also accredits certificate programs, associate’s degrees, and bachelor’s degrees.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or CAAHEP is the major programmatic accreditor for health sciences degrees(24).

In addition, the Joint Review Committee on Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT) reviews programs using national criteria. Ensuring program quality plays a major role(25). The Council for Higher Education Accreditation or CHEA recognizes JRCNMT to accredit postsecondary nuclear medicine technology programs(26).

Here is an example of JRCERT Accredited Radiography Programs in Massachusetts(27):

1. Bunker Hill Community College – Radiography
Program Name: Medical Radiography
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 132 months
Completion Rate: 91.1%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 85.1%  Job Placement Rate: 100%

2. Laboure College – Radiation Therapy
Program Name: Radiation Therapy
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 26 months
Completion Rate: 100%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 83%  Job Placement Rate: 92%

3. MCPHS University – Radiography
Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Duration: 37 months
Completion Rate: 100%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 91%  Job Placement Rate: 100%

4. Roxbury Community College – Radiography
Program Name: Radiology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 26 months
Completion Rate: 80%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 87.5%  Job Placement Rate: 79.6%

5. Suffolk University – Medical Dosimetry
Program Name: Medical Dosimetry
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 12 months
Completion Rate: 100%

6. Suffolk University – Radiation Therapy
Program Name: Radiation Therapy
Program Type: Certificate (Post-Baccalaureate)
Duration: 22 months
Completion Rate: 100%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 90%  Job Placement Rate: 78.1%

7. UMass Memorial Medical Center – Radiation Therapy
Program Name: Radiation Therapy
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 16 months
Completion Rate: 50%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 100%  Job Placement Rate: 100%

**Data are based on listings last updated last July 1, 2022.

Career Opportunities

The employment of radiologic technologists and technicians in Massachusetts is expected to increase by 3.9% over the next decade(28). The increase is slower than the national job growth rate of 9%.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that approximately 4,910 healthcare professionals in Massachusetts are licensed as radiologic technologists and technicians(29).

Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not have data on the occupational data for X-rays technicians, it is believed that they typically earn less than RTs(30).

Some significant hospitals in Massachusetts that employ radiologic technologists include the Boston Children’s Hospital, the Massachusetts General Hospital, and the New England Baptist Hospital.

Individuals interested in working in imaging centers can also consider applying to various companies such as Bay Radiology, Alliance Imaging, and the BIH Radiologic Foundation.

Salary

Radiologic technologists in Massachusetts make an average annual income of over $78,300. The salary is considered one of the highest-paying jobs in the state(31).

The Bureau of Labor Statistics supports the average projection. According to the report, radiologic technologists in Massachusetts are the highest-paid in the United States(32).

A radiographer‘s hourly pay in this state is $33.51, with an annual mean of $82,080(33). It does not matter where a radiologist works. Outpatient imaging clinics and government institutions always have the highest pay rates.

FAQs

1. How do I become an X-ray Tech in Massachusetts?

In order to become an X-ray tech in Massachusetts, students may earn either a high school diploma or a General Educational Development certificate (GED)(34). Students may receive a postsecondary certificate or degree. According to BLS or the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic techs often possess an associate of applied science or AAS degree.

2. How long is the duration of studies in X-ray tech schools?

In community colleges, full-time students can get an associate’s degree in as little as two years, while part-time students may require up to three years(35). There are other four-year bachelor of science degrees.

3. Is it hard to become an X-ray tech?

The coursework in X-ray technician schools may be challenging(36). Students will need a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and imaging equipment.

Nonetheless, the professors are specialists in their respective fields. The instructors will be able to assist learners in grasping technical information, enabling them to feel confident in their abilities.

4. How much do X-ray techs make in Massachusetts?

In the state of Massachusetts, the hourly wage for a radiographer is $33.51, with an annual mean wage of $82,080(37). Outpatient imaging clinics and government organizations consistently provide reasonable compensation regardless of where a radiologist works.

  1. Radiology Tech Programs in MA with Course Descriptions
    https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/radiology-tech-programs-ma.html
  2. Radiologic Technology Education
    https://www.massgeneral.org/imaging/education/radiologic-technology
  3. Radiology Schools in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/massachusetts.html
  4. Massachusetts Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/massachusetts/
  5. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/massachusetts/
  6. Radiology Tech Programs in MA with Course Descriptions
    https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/radiology-tech-programs-ma.html
  7. Radiologic Technology Education
    https://www.massgeneral.org/imaging/education/radiologic-technology
  8. Ibid.
  9. Radiologic Technology Education
    https://www.massgeneral.org/imaging/education/radiologic-technology
  10. Radiology Schools in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/massachusetts.html
  11. Your Career in Medical Imaging in Massachusetts Starts Here
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/massachusetts/
  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 Schools in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/massachusetts.html
  14. Become a highly skilled radiologic technologist
    https://www.northshore.edu/academics/programs/rad/
  15. Careers in Radiologic Technology
    https://www.asrt.org/main/career-center/careers-in-radiologic-technology
  16. Radiology Schools in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/massachusetts.html
  17. Your Career in Medical Imaging in Massachusetts Starts Here
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/massachusetts/
  18. Ibid.
  19. Radiologic Technology Education
    https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/radiologictechnology/
  20. Radiologic Technology Education
    https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/radiologictechnology/
  21. Radiologic Technology Degree in Greater Boston
    https://www.massbay.edu/academics/health-sciences/radiologic-technology
  22. Radiologic Technology Education
    https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/radiologictechnology/
  23. About JRCERT
    https://www.jrcert.org/about-jrcert/
  24. What is CAAHEP?
    https://www.caahep.org/#:~:text=What%20is%20CAAHEP%3F,of%20the%20health%20sciences%20professions.
  25. JRCNMT
    https://www.jrcnmt.org/
  26. Ibid.
  27. Your Career in Medical Imaging in Massachusetts Starts Here
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/massachusetts/
  28. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/massachusetts/
  29. Ibid.
  30. Ibid.
  31. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/massachusetts/
  32. Massachusetts Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/massachusetts/
  33. Ibid.
  34. Radiology Schools in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/massachusetts.html
  35. Radiologic Technology Education
    https://www.massgeneral.org/imaging/education/radiologic-technology
  36. 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/
  37. Massachusetts Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/massachusetts/
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