Radiologic Technology
Why study radiologic technology?
The field of radiologic technology combines the technology that enables us to view the structure and function of the human body with compassionate and capable patient care. We learn how to properly image the patient so the radiologist can accurately diagnose the patient's problem and select the most appropriate treatment.
Radiologic Technologists use a wide variety of machines to produce images of the body. They use x-ray machines, CT (CAT) scanners, MRI machines, ultrasound machines and nuclear medicine cameras. This program teaches students to perform studies using x-ray machines. Use of advanced imaging modalities may require additional schooling or on-the-job training. The variety of things to learn keeps the field of radiologic technology new and interesting.
Radiologic Technologists are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates radiologic technology employment opportunities to grow by 24% in the next eight years. The local demand for technologists was so great that the area hospitals joined forces with SFCC to create this program.
Radiologic Technologists have attractive compensation packages. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists' 2004 Wage and Salary Survey shows the average wage per hour as $22.51 and the average annual salary at $52,026 in Missouri. The average starting salary in this area is around $17.00/hr or $32,000/year. This is a 3.15% increase over 2003. Recruiting employers also tempt applicants with sign-on bonuses, health benefits and generous vacation schedules. Many employers offer the opportunity to work compressed work weeks (four 10-hour days, or three 12-hour days).
For more information about required courses, click Advising Worksheet.
Computed Tomography Courses
Computed tomography (CT) is a medical technique that uses ionizing radiation, a scanner and a computer to create three-dimensional images of sections of the human body. The field of computed tomography provides diagnoses of disease processes that cannot be demonstrated by general radiographic methods. These courses are part of the MoHealthWINs program funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and has eligibility requirements.*
In addition to submitting an SFCC Application for Admission, students must also submit an additional application for elibility for the computed tomography courses. Admission to SFCC does not automatically ensure eligibility for computed tomography courses. Please see the Applications page for more information.
Upon successful completion of a course or courses, students are eligible to take certification exams, which are required by some employers and may make you more marketable in a job search.
Contact
Ruth Ann Pfremmer
Program Coordinator
Fielding Technical Center 249
(660) 596-7405
*This workforce solution was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The solution was created by the grantee and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership.”