X-ray Tech Schools in NM

  • Radiologists play an essential role in discovering diseases and illnesses by performing various imaging procedures that physicians use to diagnose and treat them(1). These medical professionals include technologists, sonographers, and medical imaging personnel.
  • X-ray technicians provide medical images that identify particular anatomical structures inside their patients’ bodies using advanced technology(2). Meanwhile, radiologic technologists perform various procedures and collect data related to the diagnosis and treatment of patients(3). 
  • Through the radiologic technology program, students can gain hands-on experience in both clinical and classroom settings(4). They also interact with other healthcare workers, such as physicians and nurses.
  • The United States (U.S) Department of Labor anticipates a 21% increase in employment between 2012 and 2022, with annual median pay of $54,000(5).

The employment of radiologic technicians and technologists in New Mexico is expected to grow by 6.9% in around 2028, slightly below the national rate of 9%(6).

Top X-ray Technician Schools in New Mexico

The following table will help applicants compare the various medical imaging and not-for-profit programs in New Mexico(7). 

Before enrollees start considering a program, it is essential that they thoroughly check with the Radiation Control Bureau (RCB), and the New Mexico Environmental Department (NMED) to ensure that the program meets licensing requirements.

School Name Associate’s Imaging Program Bachelor’s Imaging Program Graduate Imaging Program National Accreditation
Central New Mexico Community College Yes — — Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT),

 

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
Clovis Community College Yes — — JRCERT
New Mexico State University–Dona Ana Yes — — JRCERT, CAAHEP
University of New Mexico-Main Campus — Yes — Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT)

**Data on listings was retrieved last July 2, 2022. Changes in data may occur when new information comes in. 

List of Programs

Here is the list of JRCERT Accredited Radiography Programs in New Mexico(8):

1 Clovis Community College – Radiography

417 Schepps Boulevard, Clovis NM 88101
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 48 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 92%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 98%
Job Placement Rate: 90%
Tuition Fees: $975 Resident, $2,225 Non-resident

2 Central New Mexico Community College – Radiography

525 Buena Vista SE, Albuquerque NM 87106
Tel: (505) 224-4000
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 48 months
Tuition Fees: $1,440 Resident, $3,240 Non-resident

3 Pima Medical Institute-Albuquerque – Radiography

4400 Cutler Avenue NE, Albuquerque NM 87110
Tel: (505) 881-1234
Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 93 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 86%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 83%
Job Placement Rate: 91%
Tuition Fees: $15,687 Resident, $15,687 Non-resident

4 Doña Ana Community College – Radiography

MSC 3DA P.O. Box 30001, Las Cruces NM 88003-8001
Tel: (575) 527-7581
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 57 months
Program Effectiveness Data: Completion Rate: 95%
Credential Examination Pass Rate: 82%
Job Placement Rate: 100%
Tuition Fees: $1,560 Resident, $4,968 Non-resident

Students in the medical imaging program have the option to seek additional certifications in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT), both of which provide online components of the curriculum(9). Programs leading to this certification will need both didactic and clinical instruction.

Also, patient care for radiography, radiographic imaging, biomedical ethics, and radiologic technology capstone courses prepare students for work as radiologic technologists and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination(10). Some school programs provide an Associate in Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

Radiographers are healthcare professionals who perform various procedures such as diagnostic and interventional therapy procedures(11). They are usually involved in performing radiographic procedures directly with the patient.

Likewise, radiologists play an essential role in discovering and treating illnesses by performing various imaging procedures that doctors use to diagnose and treat them(12). 

If applicants want to pursue a career in radiology, they can pursue any of the  following radiologic fields listed below(13):

  • X-ray technician
  • Nuclear medicine tech
  • Radiologist (M.D.)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI technician
  • Radiologic technologist
  • Ultrasound technician

Radiologic technologist are medical specialists that do diagnostic imaging(14). 

Radiologic or X-ray technicians often work in hospitals, diagnostic imaging facilities, clinics, laboratories, nursing homes, and even in the private sector(15). These individuals work evenings, weekends, and on-call shifts, while most workers earn 40 hours each week.

X-ray technicians provide medical images identifying particular anatomical structures inside their patients’ bodies using advanced technology.

Meanwhile, radiologic technologists are medical professionals who perform various procedures and collect data related to the diagnosis and treatment of patients(16). They are also responsible for radiation protection for both patients and healthcare workers.

Through the radiologic technology program, students can gain hands-on experience in both clinical and classroom settings. They also interact with other healthcare workers, such as physicians and nurses.

Moreover, aspiring enrollees will learn about the human body’s various functions and anatomical structures, as well as the safe handling and exposure of radiation. They will also perform laboratory activities to improve their patient positioning skills.

How to Become a Radiology Technologist in New Mexico?

Post-secondary education and state licensure are often necessary if applicants wish to work as radiologic technologists(17). 

If a student wishes to become a radiologic technologist, they should follow these steps:

Getting GED or high school diploma is usually the first step in a career in health and patient care(18). Trigonometry, statistics, chemistry, anatomy, biology, physiology, and physics are among the subjects recommended by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) of the United States Department of Labor.

Also, suppose applicants want to become radiologic technicians (rad techs). In that case, rad techs may look for a program that has been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

In New Mexico, a licensed radiology technician must be certified by the state New Mexico Radiation Control Bureau(19). However, this does not mean that all requirements are the same. Only the national registration requirements for ARRT are the same.

To become a registered member of ARRT, applicants must have a valid and accredited medical technology program. Enrollees must also complete the ARRT exam(20).

The application fee for the exam is $200(21). Students need a copy of the application, which should be submitted no later than three months before the graduation date. In New Mexico, the licensing fee is $110.

Meanwhile, those planning on taking the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) Medical Imaging Program should have either completed an entry-level program in medical imaging such as ultrasound, X-ray, or radiation therapy, before they can be accepted(22).

Each clinical program consists of academic coursework and intense clinical training at several medical facilities(23). Students will work under the supervision of clinical personnel on various equipment and learn how to execute the different examination processes.

Applicants who complete the program and pass the national certification exam for radiologic technologists are eligible to pursue employment in this field(24). However, certain types of convictions may prevent students from taking the exam.

Admission Requirements

In New Mexico, there are seven radiology technician schools where applicants may acquire a degree as a radiologic technologist(25). However, the University of New Mexico (UNM) School of Medicine provides a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Radiologic Sciences. 

Most of these colleges offer associate degree programs or certificate programs to fulfill the state’s minimal criteria for licensing.

To accommodate working adults, most programs may be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Students will study standard and advanced diagnostic methods and radiology management strategies in most programs.

Generally, associate degree programs last two years or around 78 credit hours. To enroll, students will likely be expected to be in excellent physical and mental health and pass background checks and drug tests. Upon completion, applicants are qualified to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) test.

Applicants may note that program results differ according to each institution’s curriculum(26). Moreover, those that qualify may be eligible to receive financial aid. 

Financial aid is an offer of educational opportunity, not a job offer or employment guarantee. Students should meet with a school representative to learn more about job options in their chosen program.

Accreditation

The radiologic technology programs should be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

Address: 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182
Contact information: (312) 704-5300
FAX: (312) 704-5304
Email: mail@jrcert.org

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT), and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) may conduct reviews of educational programs(27).

Job Outlook for X-ray Technicians in New Mexico

Radiologic technology is a field that offers many opportunities for individuals with a passion for imaging techniques(28). Due to the emergence of medical diagnostic imaging, the scope of this profession has changed. It is a healthcare profession that involves working in hospitals, free-standing imaging centers, and clinics.

Most radiologic technologists are employed by hospitals, although national statistics anticipate that doctor’s offices and clinics will provide a higher number of new positions(29).

The U.S. Department of Labor anticipates a 21% increase in employment between 2012 and 2022, with annual median pay of $54,000(30).

The employment of radiologic technicians and technologists in New Mexico is expected to grow by 6.9% in around 2028, slightly below the national rate of 9%(31).

The Bureau of Labor Statistics or BLS does not keep track of the employment of X-ray technicians. However, technicians typically earn less than RT’s or radiologic technologist due to work responsibilities and lower educational requirements(32).

Students get real-world experience via clinical practice, exposing themselves to imaging technologies(33). In southern New Mexico, many clinic sites are available, including Las Cruces, T or C, Carlsbad, Alamogordo, Deming, Silver City, Artesia, Ruidoso, and El Paso, TX.

Radiologic technologists and technician may also find work at private radiology and imaging centers like(34): 

  • Alamogordo Imaging Center in Alamogordo
  • Santa Fe Imaging in Santa Fe
  •  X-Ray Associates at Santa Fe
  • El Camino Imaging Center in Albuquerque
  • Northwest Imaging Center in Albuquerque

Salaries for X-ray Technicians in New Mexico

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a radiologic technologist and technician in the U.S. is $54,340(35). The median wage rate is $26.13. 

However, the lowest-earning 10% of workers earn around $36,500, while the top 10% earn over $76,850.

According to a survey conducted in New Mexico, the median annual salary for a radiology technician is higher than the national average at $57,000(36).

In New Mexico, the job outlook for radiologists is very positive(37). From 2010 to 2020, the projected job growth rate is 14%, while the job growth rate for radiology technologists is 28%.

In 2019, about 1,280 healthcare professionals worked as radiologic techs in New Mexico(38). These individuals earned an average annual salary of around $59,140.

Despite the increasing number of jobs in hospitals, the trend toward outpatient care has created new positions in other healthcare facilities such as clinics and diagnostic laboratories(39).

Advanced degrees and years of experience are often enough for management positions in hospitals and imaging departments(40). These positions also allow for better pay and increased job availability.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to complete the X-ray tech program?

To become an X-ray technician, applicants must pursue additional education at a college or university(41). The easiest way to do this is by enrolling in an associate degree program. Some programs may take around two years to complete.

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

The material covered in X-ray technician programs can be challenging(42). Students will need an in-depth knowledge of the human body and imaging equipment.

Meanwhile, individuals who opt to become certified radiologic technologists may say it satisfies their ambition to join a well-compensated healthcare job and do non-invasive, life-saving diagnostic imaging(43).

3. Is X-ray tech a good career?

Working as an X-ray tech may be a good career choice, depending on the individual’s passion for patient care and imaging techniques. 

In 2019, about 1,280 healthcare professionals worked as radiologic techs in New Mexico(44). These individuals earned an average annual salary of around $59,140.

Despite the increasing number of jobs in hospitals, the need for outpatient care has produced new positions in other medical facilities such as health clinics and diagnostic laboratories(45).

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

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a radiologic technologist and technician in the US is $54,340(46). The median wage rate is $26.13. However, the lowest-earning 10% of workers earn around $36,500, while the top 10% earn over $76,850.

46 Sources

  1. Radiology Schools in New Mexico
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/new-mexico.html
  2. What Does an X-Ray Technician Do?
    https://www.fortis.edu/blog/healthcare/what-does-an-x-ray-technician-do.html
  3. Radiologic Technology
    https://dacc.nmsu.edu/radt/
  4. Ibid.
  5. Rad” Tech
    https://www.sfcc.edu/inside-sfcc/rad-tech/
  6. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in New Mexico
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/new-mexico/
  7. Ibid.
  8. New Mexico – How to Become a Radiologic Technologist
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/new-mexico/
  9. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in New Mexico
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/new-mexico/
  10. Ibid.
  11. Radiologic Technology
    https://www.cnm.edu/programs-of-study/programs-a-z/radiologic-technology
  12. Radiology Schools in New Mexico
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/new-mexico.html
  13. Ibid.
  14. Rad” Tech
    https://www.sfcc.edu/inside-sfcc/rad-tech/
  15. What Does an X-Ray Technician Do?
    https://www.fortis.edu/blog/healthcare/what-does-an-x-ray-technician-do.html
  16. Radiologic Technology
    https://dacc.nmsu.edu/radt/
  17. Radiology Schools in New Mexico
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/new-mexico.html
  18. Ibid.
  19. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
  20. Ibid.
  21. Ibid.
  22. Radiologic Sciences Program
    https://hsc.unm.edu/medicine/departments/radiology/education/radiologic-sciences/
  23. Ibid.
  24. Radiologic Technology
    https://catalogs.nmsu.edu/dona-ana/academic-career-programs/radiologic-technology/
  25. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
  26. Radiology Schools in New Mexico
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/new-mexico.html
  27. Radiology Degrees
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/degrees/
  28. Radiologic Technology
    https://www.cnm.edu/programs-of-study/programs-a-z/radiologic-technology
  29. Ibid.
  30. Rad” Tech
    https://www.sfcc.edu/inside-sfcc/rad-tech/
  31. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in New Mexico
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/new-mexico/
  32. Radiology Degrees
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/degrees/
  33. Radiologic Technology
    https://dacc.nmsu.edu/radt/
  34. Radiology Degrees
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/new-mexico/
  35. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
  36. Ibid.
  37. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
  38. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in New Mexico
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/new-mexico/
  39. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
  40. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
  41. 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/
  42. 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/
  43. What’s it Like to be a Student in a Radiologic Technology Program?
    https://www.cleveland.edu/blog-post/~post/whats-it-like-to-be-a-student-in-a-radiologic-technology-program-20171128/
  44. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in New Mexico
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/new-mexico/
  45. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
  46. New Mexico Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/new-mexico/
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