X-ray Tech Schools in MN

  • Students can get a certificate, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree in radiology from schools in Minnesota if they intend to start a new profession as a rad tech(1). Some community colleges and technical schools also provide associate’s degrees. The programs require two years of full-time study(2).
  • Aspiring radiologic technologists in Minnesota must attend a college or university certified by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) to secure employment in a reputable medical facility.
  • Certificate programs take between one and two years to finish, associate’s degrees require a minimum of two years, and bachelor’s degrees take at least four years(3)
  • Students need to complete an approved radiographic training program from a radiology school that currently holds approval from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to be employed as radiologic technologists (4).
  • Some institutions get financing from the State of Minnesota(5). The objective is to maintain lower tuition rates than those of private schools and universities. With cheap tuition, financial assistance, and scholarships, students can avoid incurring student loan debt.

X-ray Technician Schools in Minnesota

The table below provides students with an easy way to evaluate all of Minnesota’s radiologic technologies and medical imaging programs that a profit-making organization does not run on a range of criteria(6)

It is recommended that students check the ARRT to see whether or not the program that they are contemplating will satisfy the prerequisites for professional certification.

School Name Associate’s Imaging Program Bachelor’s Imaging Program Graduate Imaging Program National Accreditation Completion

Rate

Net Price
Century College Yes JRCERT 80% $10,227
Dunwoody College of Technology Yes JRCERT 83% $23,576
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Certificate Only) CAAHEP, JRCERT; JRCNMT 100% $9,546
Lake Superior College Yes JRCERT 78% $12,422
Minnesota State Community and Technical College Yes JRCERT 94% $9,813
Minnesota State College Southeast Yes JRCERT 63% $12,837
Minnesota West Community and Technical College Yes JRCERT 76% $11,244
Northland Community and Technical College Yes JRCERT 87% $9,992
Northwestern Health Sciences University Yes JRCERT N.Av.
Rasmussen University Yes JRCERT 82% N.Av.
Riverland Community College Yes JRCERT 86% $8,861
Rochester Community and Technical College Yes $13,430
St. Catherine University (Associate’s) Yes CAAHEP, JRCERT 91% $20,172
St. Catherine University (Bachelor’s) Yes CAAHEP, JRCERT 92% $20,172
St. Cloud State University Yes $13,594
St. Cloud Technical and Community College Yes CAAHEP $8,141
St. Mary’s University of Minnesota Yes $20,369

**Data retrieved on June 25, 2022. Changes may occur when new data or information comes in.

Students should ask their prospective schools in the United States for more information about the following: 

  • Program cost
  • Financial aid
  • Effectiveness data
  • Pass rate
  • Job placement rate
  • Licensure 
  • Completion rates 

How to Become a Radiology Technologist in Minnesota

Students should get a certificate, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree in radiology if they intend to start a new profession as a rad tech(7)

Some community colleges and technical schools in Minnesota provide associate’s degrees. These programs need about two years of full-time study(8).

To secure employment in a reputable medical facility, aspiring radiologic technologists in Minnesota must attend a college or university certified by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.

Certificate programs take between one and two years to finish, associate’s degrees require at least two years, and bachelor’s degrees take a minimum of four years(9)

Coursework in medical terminology, radiologic image generation, image evaluation, radiologic pharmacology, and radiology methods will help prepare students for the certification test. 

Students may find the course challenging. To get a degree in radiology, students need both classroom instruction and clinical experience, which will provide them with the necessary patient care and radiology skills, knowledge, and training.

Although there are two types of MRI technician degrees, the options accessible to students vary depending on the colleges in the area(10). Numerous colleges and hospitals offer certificate or diploma programs, which typically take 15 to 30 credits to be completed in one year.

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

Students may have heard of a radiologist, the expert responsible for diagnostic and treatment recommendations(11). Nevertheless, they may not be aware of the several opportunities present at the technologist or technician level within the field, such as:

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

X-ray technicians assist physicians and other medical personnel in treating patients(12). Using sophisticated equipment, these workers capture X-ray pictures for radiologists to review and analyze.

In addition, technicians are often responsible for carefully positioning patients for X-rays. These professionals also ensure that the X-ray pictures are of the best quality. 

On the contrary, radiologic technologists aid physicians with the diagnostic imaging of a patient’s injury or illness using X-rays and other imaging modalities(13).

Application Process 

To work as a radiologic technologist, students will need to get a state license and complete an educational program at the postsecondary level(14). The following is a list of the fundamental steps that students in Minnesota might anticipate taking on their journey toward becoming radiologic technologists:

  1. Students need to get a diploma from high school. That process is the initial stage for the majority of careers in the healthcare industry.
    Students should develop a strong foundation of knowledge before enrolling in college by completing courses in mathematics and science. These courses include anatomy, biology, chemistry, physiology, and physics.
  2. Students need an associate’s degree at the very least. The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) is by far the most frequent degree held by entry-level radiologic techs.
    Before enrolling in a radiologic technology program, prospective students should check if the program has JRCERT accreditation.
  3. The state requires students of Minnesota to get a license or certification. Additionally, they need to check out the website of the state of Minnesota for further information on the standards that are particular to the state. Students should also get in touch with the ARRT for more certification information.
  4. Students must enroll and complete a radiographic training program from an ARRT-approved radiology school to be employed as:
  • Radiation therapist
  • Diagnostic sonographer
  • Radiologic technologist
  • Nuclear medicine technologist 

The ARRT approval is required to be eligible for employment in any of these ARRT fields. The ARRT exam, necessary to get a license in Minnesota, is only open to those who have graduated from an ARRT program that has been authorized. 

Programs

Schools need a solid foundation for continuing education in their specialties in radiation therapy and other programs. 

There are now 11 radiography programs in the state of Minnesota that have received accreditation from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists(15)

There is a possibility that these radiology programs may award either a certificate, an associate’s, or a bachelor’s in radiology technology, or any combination of the three degrees. 

The following schools in Minnesota that offer radiology programs include: 

  • Dunwoody College of Technology, Minneapolis
  • Lake Superior College, Duluth
  • Century College, White Bear Lake
  • Minnesota State College, Winona, Detroit Lakes
  • Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Luverne
  • Mayo School of Health Sciences, Rochester
  • Northland Community & Technical College, East Grand Forks
  • St. Catherine University, Minneapolis
  • St. Cloud Hospital, St. Cloud
  • Riverland Community College, Austin
  • Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Minneapolis

Generally, the radiologic technology program aims to educate students for entry-level radiologic technicians who can produce diagnostic medical images of patients in various settings, including hospitals and outpatient clinics(16)

Students in the program will have the chance to work closely with radiology doctors and staff members and be educated in fundamental patient care procedures, appropriate positioning skills of anatomical body parts, and the most up-to-date radiation safety requirements(17). Furthermore, students will:

  • Work in various settings, like clinics, hospitals, surgical centers, and orthopedic institutions.
  • Contribute meaningfully to improving the quality of life of others by playing a pivotal role as a part of a competent healthcare team.
  • Create images using cutting-edge technology that help with identifying injuries and illnesses.

In addition to the classroom requirements indicated in the curriculum, trainee radiographers cycle through clinical education locations(18).

There are clinical education centers that have been accredited, and these centers provide students with a variety of inpatient and outpatient imaging treatments. The goal of these services is to enhance students’ imaging and patient care work-readiness after they graduate.

Cost and Financial Aid

Some institutions get financing from the State of Minnesota(19). The goal is to keep tuition costs much lower compared to those of private institutions and universities. The low cost of tuition, the availability of financial aid, and scholarship opportunities can avoid accruing debt through student loans.

Accreditation

The JRCERT now accredits traditional and online master’s programs in medical dosimetry, radiography, radiation therapy, and magnetic resonance(20)

The association also accredits certificate, associate’s, and bachelor’s degree programs. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, or CAAHEP, is the largest programmatic accreditor for degrees in the health sciences(21)

In addition, the Joint Review Committee on Nuclear Medicine Technology or JRCNMT evaluates programs based on national standards. Assurance of program quality is crucial(22). The Council on Higher Education Accreditation or CHEA recognizes JRCNMT to accredit postsecondary programs in nuclear medicine technology.

Here are some of the JRCERT accredited programs in Minnesota(23):

  1. St. Catherine UniversityRadiation TherapyMinneapolis
    Program Name: Radiation therapy
    Program Type: Bachelor of Science (BS)
    Duration: nine months
  2. Argosy University – Twin CitiesRadiation Therapy
    Program Name: Radiation therapy
    Program Type: Associate of Science (AS)
    Duration: 85 months
  3. Dunwoody College of Technology – Radiography
    Program Name: Radiologic technology
    Program Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
    Duration: 40 months
  4. Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences – Radiography
    Program Name: Radiography
    Program Type: Certificate
    Duration: 68 months
  5. Minneapolis VA Healthcare System – Radiography
    Program Name: Radiologic technology
    Program Type: Certificate
    Duration: 24 months
  6. Minnesota West Community and Technical College – Radiography
    Program Name: Radiologic technology
    Program Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
    Duration: 32 months
  7. Riverland Community College – Radiography
    Program Name: Radiography
    Program Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
    Duration: 33 months
  8. St. Cloud Hospital – Radiography
    Program Name: Diagnostic Imaging
    Program Type: Certificate
    Duration: 21 months
  9. Rasmussen College – Lake Elmo or Woodbury – Radiography
    Program Name: Radiologic technology
    Program Type: Associate of Radiography
    Duration: 40 months
  10. Northland Community & Technical College – Radiography
    Program Name: Radiologic technology
    Program Type: Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
    Duration: 32 months

Professional Organizations

Students and practicing radiologic technologists might consider joining the Minnesota Society of Radiologic Technologists to further their careers(24). This professional organization provides its members with a range of benefits, including access to exclusive job postings and opportunities to network with other members.

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is a good source of information about radiology education.

Career Opportunities for X-ray Techs in Minnesota

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), roughly 3,780 radiology technicians are employed in Minnesota(25). Due to the abundance of professional prospects in Minnesota, radiology technicians can specialize in certain medical industries. 

After graduating from a recognized institution, aspiring radiological technicians may pursue work in radiation treatment, nuclear medicine, MRI, sonography, and radiography(26)

In addition to hospitals, radiologists can also work in medical labs, the federal government, and physician offices(27). Most businesses need qualified radiologist technicians skilled in radiography equipment maintenance, film processing, medication administration, patient care, and medical records. 

In Minnesota, registering with employee groups and state-affiliated organizations such as the American Society of Radiologic Technologists will boost one’s chances of securing a higher-paying job(28)

Salaries

According to the BLS, the average yearly pay for a radiology technician in Minnesota is around $59,330, depending on their education, experience, place of work, role, and area(29)

Meanwhile, radiologic technologists in the state of Minnesota earn above-average salaries(30). In Minnesota, the average yearly pay for a radiologic technologist is around $64,880, with an average hourly compensation of $31.19. 

The projected salary exceeds the current national average wage for radiologic technologists, which is around $60,320 per year(31). In Minnesota, like in other U.S. states, the salary of radiological technologists might vary based on criteria such as work tasks, company, and experience. 


  1. Minnesota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/minnesota/
  2. MRI Technician Schools in Minnesota
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/mri/minnesota/
  3. Minnesota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/minnesota/
  4. Radiology Schools in Minnesota
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/minnesota.html
  5. Radiologic Technology
    https://www.century.edu/programs/radiologic-technology
  6. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Minnesota
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/minnesota/
  7. Minnesota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/minnesota/
  8. MRI Technician Schools in Minnesota
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/mri/minnesota/
  9. Minnesota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/minnesota/
  10. MRI Technician Schools in Minnesota
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/mri/minnesota/
  11. Radiology Schools in Massachusetts
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/massachusetts.html
  12. What Is the Process of Becoming an X-Ray Technician?
    cambridgehealth.edu/blog/what-is-the-process-of-becoming-an-x-ray-technician/
  13. Become a highly skilled radiologic technologist
    https://www.northshore.edu/academics/programs/rad/
  14. Radiology Schools in Minnesota
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/minnesota.html
  15. How to Become a Radiologic Technician in Minnesota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/minnesota/
  16. Radiologic Technology
    https://www.century.edu/programs/radiologic-technology
  17. Ibid. 
  18. Radiologic Technology
    https://www.northlandcollege.edu/programs/radiologic_technology/program_detail.php?program_code=470
  19. Radiologic Technology
    https://www.century.edu/programs/radiologic-technology
  20. About JRCERT
    https://www.jrcert.org/about-jrcert/
  21. What is CAAHEP?
    https://www.caahep.org/
  22. JRCNMT
    https://www.jrcnmt.org/
  23. How to Become a Radiologic Technician in Minnesota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/minnesota/
  24. How to Become a Radiologic Technician in Minnesota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/minnesota/
  25. Minnesota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/minnesota/
  26. Ibid.
  27. Ibid.
  28. Ibid.
  29. Ibid.
  30. How to Become a Radiologic Technician in Minnesota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/minnesota/
  31. How to Become a Radiologic Technician in Minnesota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/minnesota/

 

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