X-ray Tech Schools in South Dakota

• A degree in X-ray technology can help individuals become X-ray technicians⁽¹⁾. Earning a diploma in X-ray technology is a foundation for students to acquire other certifications, such as advanced radiography and health administration degrees.
• Population-wise, South Dakota is considered a small state, and local schools only offer limited radiologic technology programs⁽²⁾. In addition, South Dakota does not have licensing requirements for individuals in the field of radiologic technology.
  Still, most employers will require applicants to be certified through another state certification exam.
• The employment growth for technicians and radiologic technologists in South Dakota is expected to be 8.7% from 2018 to 2028⁽³⁾. On the other hand, the projected figure is around 9% through 2028.
• As of June 2022, the average radiology tech salary in South Dakota is $54,001⁽⁴⁾. Salary ranges can vary significantly based on location and other factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience in the field.

List of X-ray Tech Schools

The table below shows the various medical imaging and radiologic technology programs available in South Dakota not run by a non-profit organization⁽⁵⁾. Applicants must also consult the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to determine if their chosen program meets specific requirements for certification.

**Information retrieved on July 10, 2022. Changes may occur when new data comes in.

List of Programs

A few universities and colleges in South Dakota offer certificate programs in radiologic technology⁽⁶⁾. Individuals interested in radiology can pursue various specialty areas, such as diagnostic sonography. Online programs are also available, providing more flexibility to students.

Here is the list of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredited radiography programs in South Dakota⁽⁷⁾:

1. Sanford Medical Center – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 28 months
1305 West 18th Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5039
Tel: (605) 333-7445

2. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 24 months
1325 S. Cliff Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57117
Tel: (605) 322-1720

3. Rapid City Regional Hospital – Radiography
Program Name: Medical radiography
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 20 months
353 Fairmont Boulevard, Rapid City, SD 57701

4. Mitchell Technical Institute – Radiation Therapy

Program Name: Radiation therapy
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 10 months
1800 E. Spruce Street, Mitchell, SD 57301
Tel: (605) 995-7162

5. Mitchell Technical Institute – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 30 months
1800 E. Spruce Street, Mitchell, SD 57301
Tel: (605) 995-7150

6. Presentation College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Duration: 48 months
1500 North Main Street, Aberdeen, SD 57401
Tel: (605) 229-8482

7. Avera Sacred Heart Hospital – Radiography

501 Summit Street, Yankton, SD 57078
Tel: (605) 668-8158
Program Name: Radiologic technology
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 16 months

Located in South Dakota‘s Sioux Falls, the University of Sioux Falls is a liberal arts college offering a radiologic sciences degree⁽⁸⁾. Students can take Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science through the university’s biology and natural science departments.

With a curriculum that goes above and beyond the requirements of the JRCERT, students at the Avera McKennan School can learn in a very practical setting. 

Students can also receive a two-year or four-year degree at Avera McKennan through its affiliation agreements with various local schools, including the University of Sioux Falls.

The Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology program at the Mitchell Technical Institute (MTI) offers students a curriculum that combines on-campus coursework and laboratory experience with clinical rotations⁽⁹⁾.

Likewise, the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology offered by Presentation College satisfies the educational prerequisites for taking the ARRT certification test.

In addition, Southeast Technical College’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program allows students to obtain an Associate of Applied Science in six semesters. Before enrolling in the 75-credit DMS program, applicants must pass at least 19 credits of preparatory courses and the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam.

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

A degree in X-ray technology can help individuals become X-ray technicians⁽¹⁰⁾. A diploma in X-ray technology is a base for other certifications, including advanced radiography and health administration degrees. 

Meanwhile, the admission process for X-ray technology course is based on the candidates’ performance in their high school examinations.

X-Ray radiologic technologists are highly skilled and provide high–standard patient care⁽¹¹⁾. They can thoroughly understand the anatomy and procedures of patients. They also perform radiographic exposure, positioning, and radiation protection.

The expanding use of radiology in the medical industry has prompted the employment of specially trained employees to produce radiographs of high quality⁽¹²⁾.

A radiologic technologist can be in different fields, such as⁽¹³⁾:

• Interventional radiology
• Radiation therapy
• Diagnostic radiology
• Computed tomography (CT)
• Ultrasonography
• Nuclear medicine
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Education or management

What Is an X-ray Technician?

X-ray technicians are responsible for preparing and performing various medical procedures, such as examinations and imaging tests, in various healthcare settings, including imaging centers and urgent care facilities⁽¹⁴⁾. 

The modern radiologic technology profession has four levels of practice or vocational options⁽¹⁵⁾:

• Extended practice or specialization
• Radiologic technologist
• Limited permit X-ray technician
• Registered radiology assistant

How to Become a Radiology Technologist in South Dakota

Most individuals who want to become a technologist or radiologic technician can start by completing a two-year associate’s degree program in radiologic technology⁽¹⁶⁾.

South Dakota does not have licensing requirements for individuals in the field of radiologic technology⁽¹⁷⁾. Still, most employers require individuals to be certified through the national American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam. 

The ARRT provides certification examinations in a wide array of radiologic technology modalities⁽¹⁸⁾. To pass any ARRT test, applicants need a score of at least 75 out of possible 100 points.

Each year, ARRT certification and registration must be renewed⁽¹⁹⁾. A certified rad tech is required to participate in at least 24 hours of accredited continuing education every two years.

Meanwhile, limited-scope X-ray technicians only need to complete accredited courses to practice their profession⁽²⁰⁾.

South Dakota has several licensed radiologic technologist schools that provide training⁽²¹⁾. To complete the program, individuals must have at least 10 to 15 hours of classroom training and at least 25 to 30 hours of clinical education. 

After completing an associate degree program, students can complete a 1-year certification program for career advancement⁽²²⁾.

In addition to passing the written exams, individuals must complete clinical and didactic assignments.

Likewise, the program is designed for students who are interested to learn various courses such as⁽²³⁾: 

• Introduction to mammography
• Medical terminology
• Image critique
• Anatomy and pathology
• Digital radiography
• Radiographic exposure

Moreover, individuals can participate in a shadowing program that allows them to follow a technologist as they perform their duties.

Admission Criteria or Prerequisites

The radiology technology program in one school is a 21-month program that includes the summer semester⁽²⁴⁾. The first two semesters are on campus, and the clinical portion of the program is carried out in the following three semesters.

For other students, becoming a skilled and experienced radiology tech is a stepping stone toward a more advanced career in diagnostic medical sonography or nuclear medicine technology⁽²⁵⁾. Individuals may obtain more than one certification, which can enhance their career potential⁽²⁶⁾.

During the program, students must participate in clinical rotations in various cities⁽²⁷⁾. After completing the program, students will be able to apply for the ARRT registry and can become full-fledged certified rad techs.

There is a possibility that certain rad tech schools provide financial aid to their students.

Applicants may inquire about specific qualifications to school representatives⁽²⁸⁾. However, financial aid is not a guarantee for employment.

Program Goals

The following goals will be used in the evaluation to determine whether or not the program has been effective in attaining its purpose⁽²⁹⁾:

• The students will display their skills in critical thinking.
• The students will show that they are competent in clinical settings.
• The students will improve their communication skills.
• The students will display professional development.

Outcomes

Participants in the program will be expected to⁽³⁰⁾:

• Carry out non-routine procedures
• Develop self-confidence and utilize sound judgment 
• Perform analysis on the high–quality images

Expenses

The tuition fee depends on the radiology schools and rad tech programs. 

For instance, Mitchell Technical College has an average tuition fee of $11,382 for its associate’s degree in imaging program⁽³¹⁾. Meanwhile, Southeast Technical College has a higher tuition fee for about $12,046.

Mount Marty University provides a bachelor’s degree in imaging program, which averages $19,704 on their tuition fee⁽³²⁾. The tuition fee is lower than the bachelor’s program fee of Presentation College, with an average tuition fee of $21,798. 

Meanwhile, on the same list of data, the University of Sioux Falls offers both associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs with an average tuition fee of $19,744.

Other schools did not disclose their current tuition fee. Students should inquire and compare prices of different programs. 

Accreditation

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology is an organization that reviews and approves educational programs related to medical dosimetry, magnetic resonance, radiography, and radiation therapy⁽³³⁾. 

These programs can be offered at various levels, including associate’s, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees. The course levels are both in remote and traditional settings. 

The JRCERT programs are housed in hospitals and medical centers that are either degree-granting or award certificates. The organization’s activities are carried out within the continental United States and its territories.

JRCERT Information⁽³⁴⁾
Address: 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
Fax number: (312) 704-5304
Phone number: (312) 704-5300
Webpage: https://www.jrcert.org/
Email address: mail@jrcert.org

Career Opportunities

The outlook for the employment of rad tech professionals is very positive in South Dakota and other states⁽³⁵⁾. In 2012, a report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) stated that the number of medical professionals working in this field would increase by 28% from 2010 to 2020.

According to other projections, the employment growth for technicians and radiologic technologists in South Dakota is expected to be 8.7% from 2018 to 2028⁽³⁶⁾. On the other hand, the projected figure is predicted to be around 9% through 2028.

In 2020 as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, South Dakota was estimated to have 950 technician and radiologic technologist positions⁽³⁷⁾.

Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not provide employment data for the limited scope of X-ray technicians, these professionals typically earn less than the other technologists due to their lower scope of responsibility and educational prerequisites⁽³⁸⁾.

Individuals can get many certifications, which may considerably improve their chances of finding successful employment⁽³⁹⁾.

Most of the technicians and radiologic technologist positions in South Dakota are in medical facilities, hospitals, and imaging centers⁽⁴⁰⁾. Some of the prominent organizations that hire these professionals include:

• Avera Health
• Prairie Lakes Healthcare System
• Department of Veteran Affairs
• Huron Regional Medical Center

The ARRT has various levels of certification available for individuals interested in becoming certified rad tech. This field offers various rewarding and challenging job opportunities.

Salary

Although South Dakota is not one of the best states to be a radiologic technologist professional, it is still possible to earn a good living⁽⁴¹⁾. According to the 2017 salary report, the average annual wage for a radiologic technologist in South Dakota was $50,870. This figure is slightly lower than the average income of $60,320.

In 2020, the average annual salary for a South Dakota radiologic technologist was $54,610⁽⁴²⁾. The state had the second-highest number of these professionals in the country, with 2.31 of every 1,000 rad tech jobs.

Meanwhile, as of June 2022, the average radiology tech pay in South Dakota is $54,001, with an average between $49,101 and $59,501⁽⁴³⁾. Salary ranges can vary significantly based on location and other factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience in the field.

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43 Sources

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   https://leverageedu.com/blog/x-ray-technician-jobs/
2. RadTech Schools in South Dakota
   https://radiologyed.org/schools/south-dakota/
3. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
   https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-dakota/
4. Radiology Tech Salary in South Dakota
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5. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
   https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-dakota/
6. Ibid.
7. RadTech Schools in South Dakota
   https://radiologyed.org/schools/south-dakota/
8. Ibid.
9. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
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10. X-Ray Technician Jobs
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11. ROLE AND SCOPE OF AN X-RAY RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGIST
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12. Start Your Radiologic Technology Career
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13. Ibid.
14. Should You Become an X-Ray Technician, and How?
    https://www.gurnick.edu/should-you-become-xray-technician-and-how/
15. Ibid.
16. South Dakota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/south-dakota/
17. RadTech Schools in South Dakota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/south-dakota/
18. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
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19. Ibid.
20. RadTech Schools in South Dakota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/south-dakota/
21. South Dakota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/south-dakota/
22. Ibid.
23. Ibid.
24. RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
    https://www.mitchelltech.edu/radtech
25. South Dakota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/south-dakota/
26. Ibid.
27. RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
    https://www.mitchelltech.edu/radtech
28. Radiology Schools in South Dakota
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/south-dakota.html
29. Program Overview
    https://www.avera.org/health-care-professionals/avera-mckennan-school-of-radiologic-technology/about-the-program/#outcomes
30. Ibid.
31. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-dakota/
32. Ibid.
33. Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology – (JRCERT)
    https://www.chea.org/joint-review-committee-education-radiologic-technology
34. Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
    https://www.jrcert.org/
35. South Dakota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/south-dakota/
36. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-dakota/
37. Ibid.
38. Ibid.
39. South Dakota Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/south-dakota/
40. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-dakota/
41. RadTech Schools in South Dakota
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/south-dakota/
42. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Dakota
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-dakota/
43. Radiology Tech Salary in South Dakota
    https://www.salary.com/research/salary/alternate/radiology-tech-salary/sd