X-ray Technician Schools in West Virginia

  • One of the essential steps in becoming an X-ray tech is having the proper education. There are various programs for this career path, such as an associate’s degree program(1). Aspiring X-ray technicians can finish this program within 24 months. 
  • To become a licensed radiologic technologist in West Virginia, individuals must obtain a license from the West Virginia Board of Medicine(2)
  • Aspiring enrollees wishing to be licensed technologists in West Virginia must complete a course of study approved by the state licensing boards(3). Then, applicants need to pass the state exam or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or ARRT exam.
  • The Projections Central show that the number of jobs for radiologic technologists and technicians in West Virginia will grow by 9.8% from 2018 to 2028(4). In West Virginia, workers can earn around $23.21 per hour or an average of $48,280 annually(5).

List of X-ray Tech Schools

The table below will help students compare the various programs in West Virginia that offer medical imaging and not-for-profit radiotherapy technology(6). Students should also check with the Board of Examiners of West Virginia to ensure that their chosen program meets the state’s licensing requirements.

The following acronyms are included in the table below: 

  1. CAAHEP: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
  2. JRCERT: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
  3. JRCNMT: Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology
School Name Associate’s Imaging Program Bachelor’s Imaging Program Graduate Imaging Program National Accreditation Credential Exam Pass Rate Completion Rate Job Placement Rate Net Price
Marshall University Yes $8,508
West Virginia University Hospital Departments of Rad Tech and Nutrition CAAHEP, JRCERT, JRCNMT 96% 89% 100% N.Av.
Bluefield State College Yes Yes JRCERT 93% 75% 100% $8,445
University of Charleston Yes Yes JRCERT 97% 77% 100% $21,941
Mountwest Community and Technical College Yes $7,717
BridgeValley Community & Technical College Yes CAAHEP $6,794
Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College Yes JRCERT 89% 75% 89% $5,823
West Virginia Northern Community College Yes JRCERT 80% 69% 91% $4,180

**Data retrieved on July 9, 2022. Changes can reflect when new information or data comes in.

In West Virginia, there are several work opportunities for aspiring radiologic technologists, such as radiographers, radiology technicians, and nuclear medicine specialists(7)

There are also several medical schools and colleges that can help prepare students for these careers. Some of these schools only offer transfer degrees that are approved by the ARRT

Schools that offer full programs are the following:

  • Bluefield State College
  • University of Charleston
  • Southern Virginia Community and Technical College

List of Programs

The West Virginia University Hospitals system has a medical education program that includes courses in various medical disciplines(8). These programs are nuclear medicine, radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), echocardiography, and ultrasound.

The Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College‘s Mount Gay campus offers a degree in radiologic technology. The students can complete the program in about two or three years.

Northern Community College is a community college that offers an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology. The program can prepare the students for entry-level positions in the industry.

At Mountwest Community and Technical College, students can earn a degree in radiologic technology through the Collins Career Center. 

The University of Charleston offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Radiologic Science. This program prepares students for the licensing exam and employment in the field. In addition, students can also earn an associate degree to be able to sit for the licensing exam.

The Bluefield State College‘s School of Nursing and Allied Health provides a Bachelor’s Degree in Imaging Science and an Associate’s Degree in Radiologic Technology

Meanwhile, here is the complete list of Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredited radiography programs in West Virginia(9):

1 Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic Technology Program
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 58 months
Box 2900 Dempsey Branch Road, Mount Gay, WV 25637
Tel: (304) 896-7335


2 Bluefield State College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 46 months
219 Rock Street, Bluefield, WV 24701
Tel: (304) 327-4145


3 Ohio Valley Medical Center, Inc. – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 20 months
2000 Eoff Street, Wheeling, WV 26003
Tel: (304) 234-8781


4 St. Mary’s Medical Center School for Medical Imaging – Radiography

Program Name: Medical Imaging
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 56 months
2900 First Avenue, Huntington, WV 25702
Tel: (304) 526-1259


5 University of CharlestonBeckley – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Science
Duration: 50 months
158 Dye Drive, Beckley, WV 25801
Tel: (304) 352-0066


6 United Hospital Center – Radiography

Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 30 months
327 Medical Park Drive, Bridgeport, WV 26330
Tel: (681) 342-1871


7 University of Charleston – Radiography

Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Duration: 60 months
2300 MacCorkle Avenue, S.E., Charleston, WV 25304
Tel: (304) 357-4923


8 West Virginia University Hospitals – Radiography

Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 36 months
Medical Center Drive Box 8062, Morgantown, WV 26506


9 West Virginia University Hospitals – Magnetic Resonance

Program Name: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 4 months
Medical Center Drive Box 8062, Morgantown, WV 26506
Tel: (304) 293-8802


10 West Virginia Northern Community College – Radiography

Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 40 months
1704 Market Street, Wheeling, WV 26003
Tel: (304) 214-8899


11 West Virginia University HospitalsRadiation Therapy

Program Name: Radiation Therapy
Program Type: Certificate
Duration: 4 months
Medical Center Drive Box 8150, Morgantown, WV 26506
Tel: (304) 598-4715

What Is an X-ray Technician?

X-ray technicians, also known as radiologic technicians or radiographers, conduct X-rays and other diagnostic examinations in hospitals and clinics(10)

As X-ray techs, these individuals work directly with patients receiving MRIs or X-rays(11).

Additionally, radiologic technicians run a variety of machines, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices(12)

X-rays are used by technicians to scan bone damage. Meanwhile, CT scans detect blood clots and organ damage(13). Lastly, MRIs can see musculoskeletal ailments, such as nerve compression and spinal injuries.

Being an X-ray tech is a rewarding and challenging job, and it requires individuals to be able to work flexible hours and weekends, especially for emergency cases. 

Moreover, X-ray technicians need to be adept in their communication skills since their jobs require them to interact with patients and physicians effectively.

X-ray tech prerequisites include(14):

  • American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT) certification or American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification
  • State licensure (if required)
  • Secondary school diploma or its equivalent
  • Accredited two-year or four-year college degree in radiologic technology 

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

One of the essential steps in becoming an X-ray tech is having the proper education. Students can choose from various programs, such as an associate’s degree(15). In as much as 24 months, aspiring X-ray technicians can finish this type of program. 

Through the radiologic technologist program, aspiring enrollees can learn about the ins and outs of diagnosing and understanding the patient’s anatomy using imaging technology. In addition, students can apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Radiologic technologists are responsible for performing diagnostic imaging examinations, ensuring that the patients are correctly positioned, and making sure that the radiation dose is delivered safely and effectively(16).

In addition to being able to perform their duties, these professionals also learn about: 

  • Anatomy
  • Patient positioning
  • Examination techniques
  • Equipment protocols
  • Radiation safety
  • Radiation protection
  • Basic patient care

Radiologic technologists are also responsible for performing an imaging examination, which the radiologists can interpret. Besides working in hospitals and clinics, radiologic technologists work in other medical facilities such as physicians’ offices and urgent care centers.

Likewise, radiologic technologists may also have the opportunity to specialize in different imaging procedures such as:

  • Ultrasound
  • Mammography
  • Interventional radiography
  • MRI
  • CT scan
  • Radiation therapy
  • Nuclear medicine

How to Become a Radiology Technologist in West Virginia

To become a licensed radiologic technologist in West Virginia, one must obtain a license from the West Virginia Board of Medicine(17). Other technologists are also licensed by the West Virginia Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Technology Board of Examiners.  

Individuals who aspire to be licensed technologists in West Virginia must complete a course of study approved by the state licensing boards(18). Then, applicants need to pass the state exam or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam. 

Admission Criteria and Prerequisites

In one radiology school, students must have a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher and a college GPA of 2.0 or higher(19). Although these grades meet the program’s general admission requirements, students must also complete the program’s specific requirements to be admitted.

As transfer students, applicants must have a minimum GPA of at least 2.5 to be accepted into a university. In addition to at least 13 credit hours, applicants must complete other prerequisites, such as having at least 4 hours of sciences and 3 hours of mathematics, with at least a minimum grade of C in both subjects.

During the final admission phase, students must pass a technical standards evaluation. These tests evaluate their abilities to perform specific radiologic technology tasks.

Some school programs also offer financial aid. However, students may not expect that this is an employment opportunity(20). Therefore, they must coordinate with the school representative on the qualifications needed to grant financial aid.

Program Goals and Outcomes

Here are some examples of the program goals and outcomes of one radiology school in West Virginia(21):

  • Prepare residents for careers in radiology and academic research. They should also review scientific data and write research articles.
  • Through effective assessments, the program’s residents can develop lifelong learning goals. They will also be able to improve their performance in the field of positive change in diagnostic radiology.
  • Through the program, residents will be able to develop a deeper understanding of diseases, anatomy, and physiology. They will also be able to perform procedures related to imaging and diagnosis.
  • The program aims to effectively improve the trainee’s communication skills with the referring physician. Also, the program will help students coordinate the proper treatment with the doctor.
  • The program provides high-quality education in diagnostic radiology, radiation protection, and radiation biology. It also involves the use of the school’s core competencies. The program will help the residents apply their knowledge and skills to the various aspects of the medical profession.

Accreditation

Students need to choose a Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology school or a JRCERT accredited school.

The JRCERT will grant the program re-accreditation for eight years, based on the curriculum’s successful outcome measurement(22)

These include the quality of the curriculum, academic practices, safety and health, integrity, resources, and institutional data.

The JRCERT is an organization that aims to improve the quality of patient care by promoting the accreditation of medical programs in radiation therapy, medical dosimetry, magnetic resonance, and radiography.

Moreover, the JRCERT is the only agency that is authorized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, and the United States Department of Education to provide accreditation for the accredited traditional and remote delivery of the mentioned programs.

Aspiring candidates can contact JRCERT through the following information(23)

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

Career Opportunities

The Projections Central show that the number of jobs for radiologic technologists and technicians in West Virginia will grow by 9.9% from 2018 to 2028(24). This estimate is slightly above the national job growth rate for rad tech professionals at around 9% in the same period.

The 1,710 radiologic technologist positions in West Virginia that are related to this field were estimated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019(25)

In the same year, the average annual compensation that a radiologic technologist in the state earned was $55,880, the highest in the country. 

The agency also noted a significant number of rad tech jobs in West Virginia in 2019, making up 2.44 of every one thousand employees in the same field(26).

Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track X-ray technicians’ occupational data, it provides information on the average salary of these professionals(27)

Radiologic technologists are hired at hospitals, universities, government agencies, and imaging centers.

Salary

In the United States, radiologic technology workers earn around $60,320 per year or $29 per hour(28). In West Virginia, workers can earn around  $23.21 per hour or an average of $48,280 annually. 

With more work experience, such as a specialization, the salary can go up to $31.25 per hour or around $65,000 annually(29). However, with the cost of living in the state being lower than in other states, the average salary for this type of job is not expected to be high.


29 Sources

  1. How to Become an X-Ray Tech: A Step-by-Step Guide
    https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/health-sciences/blog/how-to-become-xray-tech/
  2. Become a Radiology Professional in West Virginia
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/west-virginia/
  3. Ibid.
  4. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in West Virginia
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/west-virginia/
  5. Become a Radiology Professional in West Virginia
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/west-virginia/
  6. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in West Virginia
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/west-virginia/
  7. West Virginia Radiology Tech Careers and Degrees
    https://www.ultrasoundtechnicianschools.com/specialty/radiology/west-virginia/
  8. Become a Radiology Professional in West Virginia
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/west-virginia/
  9. Ibid.
  10. How to Become an X-Ray Tech
    https://www.bestcolleges.com/healthcare/xray-technician/how-to-become-an-xray-technician/
  11. How to Become an X-Ray Tech: A Step-by-Step Guide
    https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/health-sciences/blog/how-to-become-xray-tech/
  12. How to Become an X-Ray Tech
    https://www.bestcolleges.com/healthcare/xray-technician/how-to-become-an-xray-technician/
  13. Ibid.
  14. Ibid.
  15. How to Become an X-Ray Tech: A Step-by-Step Guide
    https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/health-sciences/blog/how-to-become-xray-tech/
  16. Radiography, A.A.S.
    https://www.wvncc.edu/programs/radiography-a.a.s./1108
  17. Become a Radiology Professional in West Virginia
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/west-virginia/
  18. Ibid.
  19. Radiologic Technology
    https://www.ucwv.edu/academics/majors-degrees/radiologic-technology/
  20. Radiology Schools in West Virginia
    https://www.radiology-schools.com/radiology-schools-state/west-virginia.html
  21. DEPARTMENT OF RADIOLOGY
    https://medicine.hsc.wvu.edu/radio/residents/application-information/
  22. WVU Medicine-WVU Hospitals Radiation Therapy Education Program re-accredited
    https://medicine.wvu.edu/News/Story?headline=wvu-medicine-wvu-hospitals-radiation-therapy-education-program-re-accredited#
  23. Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
    https://www.jrcert.org/
  24. Radiology Technologist Schools and Careers in West Virginia
    https://www.radiologyschools411.com/west-virginia/
  25. Ibid.
  26. Ibid.
  27. Ibid.
  28. Become a Radiology Professional in West Virginia
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/west-virginia/
  29. Ibid.
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