- Radiology schools with medical imaging programs in Rhode Island include Rhode Island College (RIC) and Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI)(1). Individuals pursuing an X-ray technician or technologist career may attend such educational institutions.
- Radiologic and radiographic students in Rhode Island may earn ARRT certification and associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Such credentials may help students meet the educational requirements of Rhode Island employers.
- Rhode Island’s average cost of in-state college tuition may be approximately $10,300, above the national average(2).
- X-ray tech students in Rhode Island (RI) may be eligible for state, federal, and private financial aid, such as the Rhode Island Supplemental Grant for Pell Grant recipients(3).
List of X-ray Tech Schools in Rhode Island
Here is a list of X-ray schools in Rhode Island (RI)(4):
| School Name | Associate’s Imaging Program | Bachelor’s Imaging Program | Graduate Imaging Program | National Accreditation | Completion Rate | Credential Exam Pass Rate | Job Placement Rate | Net Price |
| Rhode Island Collegeor Rhode Island Hospital | No | Yes | No | JRCERT, CAAHEP, JRCNMT | 96% | 97% | 99% | $9,572 |
| Community College of Rhode Island | Yes | No | No | JRCERT | 83% | 93% | 95% | $5,760 |
*** Data retrieved on May 16, 2022. Changes may occur when new information is available
List of Programs for X-ray Technicians in Rhode Island
Here are some of the programs of X-ray tech schools in Rhode Island(5):
Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI)
The CCRI offers students an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in radiology. High school graduates may consider an AAS degree before working towards a bachelor’s degree.
This 24-month program is through CCRI’s Flanagan campus.
CCRI requires all applicants to have a minimum 2.0 (“C”) grade point average (GPA). In addition, CCRI requires students to complete the prerequisite and general requirements.
Students must complete the required coursework following their admission into the program.
Clinical education through clinical rotations begins during the first semester at affiliated sites, such as:
- Kent County Memorial Hospital
- Roger Williams Medical Center
- South County Hospital
Healthcare sites designate clinical rotations as assigned shifts that students complete.
The program’s graduates must meet the requirements to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certifying exam.
CCRI also offers an AAS in Diagnostic medical sonography (DMS) and certificate programs in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT).
Additionally, CCRI provides an AAS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and certificate programs in CT and MRI.
Rhode Island College (RIC)
Rhode Island College offers students a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Medical Imaging through a partnership with the Lifespan School of Medical Imaging.
Medical imaging students may pursue various concentrations, including:
- Diagnostic medical sonography (DMS)
- Nuclear medicine technology (NMT)
- Radiologic technology (RT)
- Medical imaging management (MIM)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed tomography (CT)
Students spend the initial two years of the four-year program completing general education courses. Then during their junior and senior years, students complete medical imaging courses.
Various concentrations generally require a GPA of 2.7 and a “C” in all courses to finish the program.
Aspiring radiologists complete clinical internships at various affiliated medical centers, such as:
- Rhode Island Hospital
- Hasbro Children’s Hospital
- Westerly Hospital
- Rhode Island Medical Imaging
X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program
X-ray Technicians and Technologists
Individuals often use the terms “X-ray technician” and “X-ray technologist” interchangeably(6). While some overlapping exists, these two job titles vary.
Generally, X-ray technologists are considered healthcare professionals. However, the medical industry does not refer to X-ray technicians by that category(7).
Unlike X-ray technicians who only prepare and maintain X-ray machinery, X-ray technologists directly interact with patients by capturing X-ray images.
Technician and Technologist Programs
The coursework differs for the formal training of X-ray technicians and radiologic technologists or “radiology techs.” Usually, technologists must study medical subjects, such as physiology or anatomy, and be professionally certified by the ARRT(8).
In many situations, an X-ray technician is not required to meet these requirements for employment.
When reviewing an X-ray school’s advertised coursework, individuals should check whether schools intend courses for X-ray technicians or technologists. In some cases, a school misuses the terms.
Steps to Become a Radiology Technologist in Rhode Island
Rhode Island requires all radiologic technologists to secure a license from the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH)(9). The RIDOH issues licenses for the following occupations:
- Radiographers
- Nuclear medicine technologists
- Radiation therapists
The RIDOH utilizes the Board of Radiologic Technology (BRT) or “the board” to set the rules for a radiologic technologist (“rad tech”) licensing. Licenses in Rhode Island warrant ARRT certification(10).
The steps for certification and licensure require the following(11):
Step 1: Complete an education program that the BRT has approved
Licensure candidates must complete a training program within their particular modality. For example, radiological modalities may include(12):
- Radiography (X-rays)
- Computed tomography (CT)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
- Mammography
Aspiring X-ray technicians may consider options like radiography programs.
The ARRT requires all certificate applicants to complete at least an associate’s degree. Thus, individuals also qualify with a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree.
The amount of time an X-ray technician or technologist requires to finish schooling may depend on their training. Here are the general time frames for various types of training(13):
- Certificates: Six months to one year
- Associate’s Degree: Two years
- Bachelor’s Degree: Four years
- Master’s Degree: One to three years
Step 2: Pass an approved certification exam
Currently, the BRT only accepts ARRT certification exams. Licensure candidates must take the ARRT certification exam and pass with a score of at least 75.
Step 3: Apply for licensure
Applicants must apply and:
- Provide proof of completion of required education
- Provide proof of ARRT certification
- Pay applicable fees to the BRT
After the BRTY approves all documents, it recommends that the RIDOH issue a license.
Step 4: Renew radiologic technologist license
Individuals must renew their RT license every two years by July 31. The RIDOH and the BRT do not have a certain continuing education (CE) requirement.
However, licensed radiologic technologists must maintain ARRT certification. It requires:
- Yearly renewal
- 24 hours of CE every two years
Program Goals and Objectives
The goals and objectives of a radiologic technology program may include(14-15):
Develop Communication Skills
Students will learn how to communicate effectively with patients or other technicians or technologists and write research papers.
Demonstrate Clinical Competence
Examples include proper positioning skills and radiation safety.
Develop Professionalism
X-ray techs can show professionalism through their attitude and behavior. Examples include:
- Demonstrating compassionate patient care
- Comprehending commitment to values and ethics
- Participating in activities for professional and personal growth
Deliver Quality Radiographic Technologists to the Healthcare Industry
Examples include:
- Graduates should pass ARRT examinations in their first attempt
- Students beginning the program should graduate
- Graduates should satisfy employers of entry-level jobs
- Graduates will work as X-ray technicians or technologists
Graduates Show Effective Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills
- Modify routine protocols
- Perform non-routein routines
Graduates Show the Skills Necessary for Entry-Level Radiologic Technology Jobs
Students should:
- Understand and apply as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) principles to healthcare patients
- Demonstrate adequate knowledge of human anatomy and pathology
- Operate radiographic equipment to produce quality images
- Demonstrate quality patient care
Accreditation
Aspiring X-ray technicians should consider whether a particular school they are considering offers accreditation, including the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
These criteria can help improve the quality of education a school provides.
JRCERT–accredited programs can offer students the necessary knowledge and skills while qualifying them for licensure(16).
Accreditation is one of the primary ways higher-educational institutions in the United States can improve education quality. This private involuntary system can provide various benefits to individuals. Accreditation does the following(17):
- Provides a public symbol of legitimate higher education
- Helps states conduct licensure of professions
- Develops student learning outcomes
- Helps protect students and consumers against fraud
- Prompts innovation and sustains quality
- Maintains critical features of higher education
- Helps provide international mobility
- Provides authority for higher education funding
Course Requirements
Here are some guidelines related to course requirements for radiologic technology schools(18).
Students earning X-ray-related BS degrees, such as medical imaging, must complete particular coursework.
Generally, students must complete various types of courses, including general education classes. Schools may also require students to complete courses from various academic categories, such as foreign languages.
The number of college courses students take per semester can help determine how soon they can finish their X-ray technician or technologist training. They may also complete a program earlier by taking summer courses.
Particular courses may have prerequisites, requiring students to take other courses beforehand.
In addition, an academic adviser can help train X-ray techs to determine which courses to take during the spring, summer, and fall semesters.
Here are some courses that radiography students in Rhode Island may be required to complete(19):
- Human anatomy
- Human physiology
- Physics
- Medical Imaging
- Radiography
Expenses
The costs of studying and training to become an X-ray technician or technologist are based on factors such as whether an individual is(20):
- Earning a certificate, undergraduate degree, or graduate degree
- Studying full-time or part-time
- Receiving financial aid
In addition, potential students should research whether a school’s advertised costs include tuition, books, and fees. Textbooks and additional fees like room and board can impact the total educational costs.
The average cost of in-state tuition in Rhode Island from 2021 to 2022 may have been over $10,300(21). This figure was higher than the U.S. national average.
Financial Aid
Rhode Island schools can offer various types of financial aid to students who would otherwise be unable to continue their education without such financial support.
Various factors, including financial need, availability of funds, and educational costs, determine the eligibility for such financial aid.
Some of the various types of financial aid available include(22):
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): A federal grant that the U.S. government awards to a student who shows an exceptional need and does not possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Federal College Work-Study Program (CWS): A federal work program provides jobs to assist payment of educational costs. Students’ payment is at least the federal minimum wage. Schools typically allow students to work up to 15 hours per week.
Rhode Island Supplemental Grant (RI State Grant): Individuals who are Pell Grant recipients, RI residents, and meet other requirements may qualify for the RI Supplemental Grant.
Other Grants: Rhode Island radiologic schools may also offer other grants, including emergency and technology grants.
Scholarships: State, federal, and private entities may offer scholarships, including the Comeback Scholarship. This scholarship allows RI students to continue studying after facing unexpected emergencies.
Loans: Unlike grants and scholarships, students must repay loans. Examples include:
- Federal Direct Subsidized Loan
- Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
- Private education loans
What Are X-ray Technicians and X-ray Technologists?
Many individuals have the notion that X-ray technicians only capture X-ray images. However, this is only one of the tasks of an X-ray technician.
The primary difference between an X-ray technician and an X-ray technologist is that an X-ray technologist is generally a healthcare professional and interacts more with patients(23).
X-ray technicians often receive training in reading X-ray tests. Meanwhile, X-ray technologists may work with physicians to determine the results of imaging scans.
Career Opportunities
Individuals training for radiographic-related career opportunities include radiographers. Diagnostic radiography relates to various radiographic (X-ray) examinations(24).
This diagnostic imaging is a type of diagnostic radiology. It involves conducting various imaging procedures to obtain images inside the human body(25).
Other related careers include CT technologists and MRI technologists.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasted that the job growth rate of radiologic and MRI technologists from 2020 to 2030 would be 9%(26). This figure is higher than the average in other fields.
As with other New England states such as Massachusetts, radiologic technicians in Rhode Island may get job opportunities in locations such as hospitals and imaging centers.
For example, individuals may work at one of the state’s largest hospitals or in the private sector. Popular hospitals in Rhode Island include Miriam Hospital and Newport Hospital.
Salary
The salaries of radiologic technicians and technologists can vary based on various factors.
The BLS calculated that the average salary for radiologic and MRI technologists is $61,980 per year, or $29.80 per hour(27). However, factors such as education level, experience, and location may affect an individual’s salary.
For example, the average salary for radiologic technologists in the Providence–Warwick region may be over $74,100(28).
However, one factor that impacts an X-ray technician’s or technologist’s salary is the type of X-ray tech individuals wish to become.
An example is a travel radiologic technologist, including X-ray techs. They often work on a contract or assignment basis for providing radiology services(29).
Generally, the average salary of a travel X-ray tech may be about $91,000 nationwide(30). However, the average salary may vary for different states like Rhode Island.
30 Sources
- Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Rhode Island
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/rhode-island/ - 2022 Tuition Comparison Between Colleges in Rhode Island
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/compare/tables/?state=RI - Available types of aid
https://www.ccri.edu/oes/fa/types_of_fa.html - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Rhode Island
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/rhode-island/ - Radiology Schools in Rhode Island
https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/rhode-island.html. - X-Ray Technologist vs. X-Ray Technician: What’s the Difference?
https://www.x-rayschools.net/articles/x-ray-technologist-vs-x-ray-technician/index.html - Ibid.
- Ibid.
- Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Rhode Island
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/rhode-island/ - Ibid.
- Ibid.
- Professions in Diagnostic Radiology
https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/professions-diagnostic-radiology - Radiology degrees
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/degrees/ - Radiography Goals
https://www.apsu.edu/rad-tech/radiography/goals.php - School of radiologic technology
- https://www.rwhs.org/careers/school-radiologic-technology
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic
https://www.jrcert.org/ - Ibid.
- Academic Rhode Map for BS Medical Imaging Major at Rhode Island College
https://www.ric.edu/documents/medical-imaging-bs-concentration-radiography-2021-rhode-map - Ibid.
- How much does x-ray technician school cost?
https://www.vocationaltraininghq.com/cost/x-ray-technician-school/ - 2022 Tuition Comparison Between Colleges in Rhode Island
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/compare/tables/?state=RI - Available types of aid
https://www.ccri.edu/oes/fa/types_of_fa.html - What Does an X-Ray Tech Do? A Clearer Picture of This Radiology Role
https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/health-sciences/blog/what-does-xray-tech-do/ - A World of Career Opportunities in Radiologic Technology
https://www.ahra.org/AHRA/Careers/A_World_of_Career_Opportunities.aspx - Diagnostic radiology.
https://www.insideradiology.com.au/diagnostic-radiology/ - Radiologic and MRI Technologists
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm - Ibid.
- Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in Rhode Island
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/rhode-island/ - What is a travel radiologic technologist
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Career/Travel-Radiologic-Technologist/What-Is-How-to-Become - Travel rad tech salary
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Travel-Rad-Tech-Salary