- Radiologic technicians and technologists must apply for certification in South Carolina through the South Carolina Radiation Quality Standards Association (SCRQSA)(1).
- Based on some estimates, the average annual salary for X-ray technicians in South Carolina may be below the national average(2).
- Potential job opportunities for X-ray technicians and technologists in South Carolina include working for the Medical University of South Carolina, Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital, Spartanburg Medical Center, Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital Downtown, McLeod Health, and Roper Hospital.
List of X-ray Technician Schools in South Carolina
Here are some schools for X-ray technicians and technologists in South Carolina(3).
- Aiken Technical College
- Florence–Darlington Technical College
- Greenville Technical College
- Horry-Georgetown Technical College
- Midlands Technical College
- Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College
- Piedmont Technical College
- Spartanburg Community College
- Technical College of the Lowcountry
- Trident Technical College
- York Technical College
List of X-ray Technician Programs in South Carolina
Here are some of the radiologic technology (RT) schools that may offer X-ray tech programs in South Carolina(4):
Aiken Technical College
Aiken Technical College offers prospective students an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in RT that may help prepare the program’s graduates to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination.
During five semesters, students take a combination of didactic and clinical classes. The school’s curriculum includes various on-campus courses, such as biology, radiographic physics, radiographic imaging, and radiation protection.
During their first semester at the South Carolina radiology tech school, students complete applied radiography at one of the program’s clinical sites, such as Doctor’s Hospital, Georgia Regents Medical Center, and Aiken Regional Medical Center.
Students must earn at least a “B” grade in all required courses.
Greenville Technical College
Students in the school’s radiologic technology program complete the curriculum with an AAS degree. The school has divided the associate degree program into two phases:
- General education phase (phase I)
- Professional phase (phase II)
Phase I occurs during the first year of study and includes general education and introductory courses, such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and introduction to sociology.
Meanwhile, phase II includes five semesters. Students may complete radiology-specific and clinical courses, such as radiographic imaging fundamentals, radiology patient care procedures, radiographic pathology, radiation biology, applied radiography, and selected imaging topics.
The program meets ARRT’s educational standards and qualifies graduates to take the ARRT certification exam.
Midlands Technical College
Midlands Technical College offers an Associate’s Degree Program in Radiologic Technology. Students take didactic courses, including radiology patient care procedures, anatomy and physiology, radiographic procedures, radiographic imaging, radiographic physics, and imaging topics.
The school’s curriculum exposes students to medical imaging specializations such as sonography, computer tomography, and nuclear medicine.
Students also complete clinical courses in hospital radiology departments. For example, students may take applied radiography.
This program helps prepare students to take the ARRT exam. Students may also apply to become certified radiographers.
Trident Technical College
Trident Technical College offers an AAS degree in radiologic technology. The degree program qualifies graduates to take the ARRT certification exam.
Trident’s program aims to promote intellectual and professional growth. It encourages students to improve communication and problem-solving skills and obtain professional knowledge.
The program requires students to maintain a 2.5-grade point average (GPA) in all prerequisites, including math and science courses.
The major’s required courses include radiographic pathology, radiology patient care procedures, imaging principles, radiographic pathology, radiographic procedures, and imaging topics.
The program’s students may complete clinical requirements at Dorchester County health care facilities or Berkeley Charleston.
X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program
Radiology is a particular branch of medicine that utilizes imaging technology to diagnose and treat diseases(5). The two primary areas of radiology include diagnostic radiology and interventional radiology.
Radiologic technologists are healthcare professionals who conduct diagnostic imaging procedures, including X-ray exams, MRI scans, and CT scans(6).
The primary difference with an X-ray technician program is that it focuses on X-ray imaging rather than general radiological imaging.
For example, an individual may earn a two-year associate’s degree in applied science with a specialization in radiography(7). Radiography utilizes X-ray radiation to produce images of the human body, including organs, bones, vessels, and tissues.
In addition, while individuals may use the terms “X-ray technician” and “X-ray technologist” interchangeably, significant differences exist(8):
- The medical industry generally classifies X-ray technologists as healthcare professionals. However, the industry does not give X-ray technicians the same classification.
- X-ray technologists typically interact more with patients than X-ray technicians. For example, X-ray technicians maintain or repair X-ray equipment while X-ray technologists operate such equipment.
How to Become an X-ray Technician in South Carolina
South Carolina residents may seek a career as an X-ray tech, including those in cities and towns, such as:
- Beaufort
- Columbia
- Conway
- Graniteville
- Greenwood
- Rock Hill
Individuals striving to become a South Carolina radiologic technologist or technician should take the following steps to secure certification(9).
Radiologic technologists and technicians must apply for certification via the South Carolina Radiation Quality Standards Association (SCRQSA).
The SCRQSA recognizes the ARRT exam for certifying radiologic technologists. Individuals must follow these steps to become licensed:
Step 1: Complete an educational program in a particular modality
South Carolina candidates must complete a particular educational program in the modality for which they seek certification. An example is mammography.
Individuals seeking ARRT certification must earn at least an associate’s degree.
Step 2: Pass a certification exam
South Carolina considers ARRT certification exams as a means to gauge whether candidates can meet examination requirements. Those who fail ARRT’s certification requirements can take the ARRT state examination.
Step 3: Apply for certification through SCRQSA
Candidates are required to submit the following:
- Application
- Proof of ARRT certification or completion of ARRT state exam
- Applicable fees
SCROSA may process applications within seven days.
Step 4: Renew the application
Individuals must renew their certification every two years. The process includes completing 24 hours of continuing education (CE).
Radiological technologists or “rad techs” must provide documentation of continuing education or proof of the current ARRT registry.
Individuals may also apply to SCROSA for a limited practice radiographer (LPR) permit. This permit allows individuals to conduct X-rays of particular human body regions under supervision.
Admission Criteria and Prerequisites
Application Process
Individuals, including recent high school graduates, must follow a school’s specific application process for on-campus and online programs.
Based on one school’s radiological sciences program, the application requirements may include(10):
- Applying and sending official transcripts before the application deadline
- Paying an acceptance fee upon admission
- Selecting a track such as diagnostic medical sonography, radiation therapy, radiologic technology, and nuclear medicine technology.
- Attending an on-campus interview
RT schools may not guarantee acceptance even if prospective students meet admission requirements.
Program Goals and Objectives
The goals and objectives of a radiologic technology school in South Carolina may include(11):
Acquiring Critical Thinking Skills to Solve Problems Effectively in a Changing Healthcare Environment
Key outcomes may include:
- Adjusting positioning for X-ray examinations
- Demonstrating the use of proper exposure factors on examinations requiring multiple exposures
Acquiring Proper Communication Skills Among Healthcare Team Members and Patients
Key outcomes may include:
- Using effective oral communication skills with patients
- Practicing proper communication skills with healthcare team members
Modeling Professional Skills
Key outcomes may include:
- Demonstrating professionalism through work ethic and values within clinical environments
- Summarizing the value and requirements of continuing medical education for lifelong learning
Becoming Knowledgeable and Clinically Competent Radiographers and Demonstrating Radiation Safety Practices
Key outcomes may include:
- Providing basic patient care to patients in a radiology department
- Demonstrating the application of proper radiation protection
- Demonstrating the ability to create and evaluate radiographic images
Accreditation
The most prominent accreditations in the radiological technology industry include recognition from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
One factor to consider is the length of accreditation. Prospective students should consider how many years an RT program’s accreditation is valid.
A program’s effectiveness data may be available on the JRCERT website.
JRCERT accreditation of a particular educational program can help assure students and graduates that the program they choose supplies the required knowledge, skills, and values sought by employers throughout the United States(12).
JRCERT’s program effectiveness data for radiologic technology schools include(13):
Credentialing Examination Pass Rate: JRCERT defines this term as including the number of student graduates who pass the ARRT certification exam or a state licensing exam on their first attempt. It compares this figure to the number of graduates taking the exam within six months of graduation.
Program Completion Rate: This term refers to the number of students completing the program for a specified length. A program specifies the entry point it utilizes to calculate the program’s completion rate. The entry point refers to the date an individual becomes a student at an educational institution.
Examples of entry points include the required orientation date and final date to drop or add classes.
Job Placement Rate: This term includes the number of graduates working in the radiologic sciences. The rate compares to the number of graduates seeking employment in the radiologic sciences.
Such individuals must be actively seeking employment. In other words, they cannot meet any of the JRCERT’s definitions of individuals who are not actively seeking employment.
Individuals can learn more at the JRCERT’s web pages (www.jrcert.org) or email mail@jrcert.org.
Tuition and Fees
The primary costs of an X-ray tech program typically include tuition, books, and additional fees, such as room and board.
Hence, prospective students should also research whether the advertised costs for educational institutions include other fees besides tuition.
Other factors that may affect a radiologic technology school’s total costs include:
- In-state or out-of-state tuition
- The length of the program (for example, two-year associates program or a four-year bachelor’s program)
- The school’s location
As of May 22, 2022, the net costs of attending radiologic technology schools in South Carolina may include(14):
- Aiken Technical College: $3,525
- Greenville Technical College: $6,992
- Piedmont Technical College: $9,126
- Spartanburg Community College: $3,965
- Trident Technical College: $2,559
Financial Aid
A radiologic technology school in South Carolina may offer various sources of financial aid(15):
Federal and State Financial Aid
Submitting a financial aid application is required whether a student is seeking financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, and loans.
An example is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. A school may offer an enrollment services center where they can complete the form in person.
Students should start applying early and submit applications for financial aid on time.
Individuals must then await their Student Aid Report (SAR). Students can receive the SAR report electronically. The federal government may randomly require students to provide additional verification information.
In-State Income Tax Credit for Tuition
South Carolina residents may also apply for an income tax credit for tuition paid to colleges and universities in South Carolina. Individuals must complete the appropriate forms.
What Exactly Is an X-ray Technician?
An X-ray technician’s responsibilities include producing X-ray images of a patient’s internal anatomy to assist doctors in diagnosing injuries, diseases, and illnesses(16).
Typical responsibilities of X-ray technicians include(17):
- Utilizing X-ray equipment to create radiographic images of patients’ organs, bones, and tissues
- Explaining X-ray procedures to patients
- Limiting patients’ radiation exposure
- Preventing duplicate X-ray procedures
- Collaborating with resident radiologists
- Creating high-quality X-ray images
- Maintaining precise records of completed X-rays
- Reviewing physicians’ orders
- Positioning, moving, and lifting patients
- Verifying patients’ identities
- Maintaining X-ray equipment
- Reporting malfunctioning X-ray equipment
Career Opportunities
Additional education and preparation can provide advancement opportunities in various areas, such as(18):
- Computer tomography
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- Sonography
- Nuclear medicine
Radiology technicians and technologists may work in supervision, management, education, and research.
Furthermore, RT graduates can qualify for various types of positions, including a radiographer. Radiographers, also known as “medical imaging technologists,” capture medical images, such as X-rays, to assist physicians in diagnosing diseases and injuries(19).
Salary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) experts forecasted that the job growth for radiologic and MRI technologists will increase by 9% from 2020 to 2030(20). This figure is as fast as the average for other fields.
The BLS does not collect occupational data for X-ray technicians. However, the salary for X-ray technologists may be higher than for X-ray technicians due to the additional education and experience required.
As of May 22, 2022, the average yearly salary for X-ray technicians in South Carolina may be $50,606, and the hourly salary may be $22.12(21). This figure ranks the state below the national average.
Hospitals in South Carolina that may require additional X-ray technicians and technologists include:
- Medical University of South Carolina
- Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital
- Spartanburg Medical Center
- Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital Downtown
- McLeod Health
- Roper Hospital
Radiologic technicians and technologists can also work at various radiology practices and imaging centers.
FAQs
1. How can X-ray technicians know if they are receiving a fair salary?
Online salary calculators can provide personalized pay ranges based on various factors, including an individual’s experience, industry, and location.
2. What is the general job outlook for X-ray technicians?
The Bureau of labor statistics (BLS) forecasted that the 2020-2030 job growth rate would be 9%(22).
3. What are the roles and responsibilities of an X-ray technician?
An X-ray technician’s responsibilities can include creating X-ray images of a medical patient’s internal anatomy to assist physicians in diagnosing illnesses, diseases, and injuries(23).
4. What are the general certification and coursework requirements for X-ray technicians?
Individuals can seek certification by completing a JRCERT-accredited and ARRT-approved program(24). Such certification programs are available at the certificate program, associate’s degree, and bachelor’s degree level (for example, applied science degree or health sciences degree).
Meanwhile, coursework usually consists of classroom and laboratory instruction(25). X-ray tech programs may include courses such as medical terminology, anatomy, patient positioning, radiation pathology, and radiation protection.
5. What is ARRT certification and registration?
The primary function of ARRT certification and registration is to recognize qualified individuals to perform a particular role(26). For example, the function of radiography certification and registration is to recognize individuals qualified to work as radiographers.
26 Sources
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https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-carolina/ - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Carolina
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-carolina/ - Imaging and radiology
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007451.htm - Radiologic technologist
https://explorehealthcareers.org/career/allied-health-professions/radiologic-technologist/ - Radiology (x-ray technology)
https://www.ccbcmd.edu/Programs-and-Courses-Finder/program/radiography-x-ray-technology - 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 - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Carolina
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https://www.jrcert.org/program-effectiveness-data/ - Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in South Carolina
https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-carolina/ - Financial Aid
https://www.atc.edu/Offices/Financial-Aid - X-Ray Technician Job Description
https://www.betterteam.com/x-ray-technician-job-description - Ibid
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https://www.radiologyschools411.com/south-carolina/ - What is a radiographer? What is a radiologist?
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https://www.indeed.com/career/x%20ray-technician/salaries/SC - Radiologic and MRI Technologists
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https://www.betterteam.com/x-ray-technician-job-description - How to Become an X-Ray Technician: Training & Certification Requirements
https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/how-to-become-a-certified-x-ray-technician.html - How to Become an X-Ray Technician: Training & Certification Requirements
https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/how-to-become-a-certified-x-ray-technician.html - What is ARRT certification & registration?
https://www.arrt.org/pages/about-the-profession/arrt-certification-and-registration