Radiology Degree Programs
Obtaining your radiology degree can be accomplished by completing an associates, bachelor's, masters or certificate programs:
Associates Degree in Radiology
Getting an associates degree in radiology is the most common way to get yourself prepared for certification exams and get a job in the field. Many students choose to obtain their associates degree and a radiology certificate in a particular area of study. Learn more about obtaining a radiology associates degree.
Bachelor's Degree in Radiology
Obtaining a bachelor's radiology degree will not only make you a stronger candidate for available positions, but will also prepare you for roles such as Radiology Program Director, Trainer, or Lead Radiologic Technologist. If you would like to expand your knowledge and skills, a radiology bachelor's degree can be a valuable asset. Find out more about radiology bachelors degrees.
Radiology Certificate Programs
Radiology certificate programs are available for those looking for a quicker way to get into the field of radiology as well as for those who are currently working in radiology, but want to become specialized or gain skills in a specific area such as Mammography, CT - Computed Tomography, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Most certificate programs range from six months to a year and many can be completed online with the option to gain on-site experience locally. Completing a radiology certificate program can be an effective way to position yourself for promotions or to take on a new role within the field. Whether you are new to radiology or looking for advancement, there is a radiology certificate program for you.
Radiology Degree Comparisons
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** The information above varies by school. It is best to request information and speak with a school representative to get the specific info from the schools you are interested in.
Chart Explanations
Length of Time
It is important to remember that the length of time varies greatly depending on your unique circumstances. If you are looking for an entry point into radiology, there are radiology certificate programs available and they can usually be completed in about 1 year. If you are already working in radiology, but would like to expand your skills, there are certificates available that span from 6 to 12 months. For example, a radiologic technologist looking to be certified in mammography could possibly complete a certificate in as little as six months.
Another thing to keep in mind is that your program length could be substantially shorter if you have already obtained your associates degree, but are enrolling in a bachelor's program. In this case, you have already completed two years worth of education, so you would only need another two years from that point to complete your radiology bachelor's degree. The same would apply to a masters program if you have already completed your bachelor's degree in radiology. Again, all schools have different time frames and you should inquire with the ones you have an interest in to get more detailed information.
Prerequisites
Radiology degree prerequisites vary depending on the context of the program. Certificate programs come in two main varieties. The first is the category of certificates that are designed for individuals who have never worked in radiology. These certificates only require that you have a high school diploma or GED. The second category of certificates is for those who are already in radiology, but want to expand their skills set. These types of certificates usually require that you are already a certified rad tech and have completed an associates or certificate covering the basic skills in radiology. Again, the prerequisites vary by program, so you should request information from the schools to get specifics.
Most bachelor's degrees in radiology require that you have completed an associates and most masters degrees in radiology require that you have completed your bachelor's. There are some exceptions made to these rules. For example, some schools will allow radiology employees who have had several years of on the job experience to substitute for certain educational prerequisites. If you are in doubt about your unique scenario, the best thing to do is to ask.
Online Available
Because of the nature of a radiology education, a hands-on approach is a must in any radiology education program. Some schools offer online fast-track programs for those who are currently working in a limited capacity, but want to obtain their associates degree. Also, there are many certificate programs that are offered online or as a hybrid between online and hands-on training locally. For example, you could complete all of your basic curriculum online, then the school would assign you a rad tech where you live locally to work with you on the applied skills portion of your education requirements.
Potential Jobs
Almost all certificates and associates degrees will prepare you for the ARRT exam and will make you a competitive candidate for certified Radiologic Technologist positions. Getting your associates degree in conjunction with a certificate will make you even more desirable to employers. See our list of radiology specializations for a comprehensive look at possible niches for you within the field of radiology.
A bachelor's degree in radiology will prepare you for supervisor and leadership roles. A masters degree will prepare you for a job as a Radiologist Assistant (R.A.). This is a high level role in radiology and usually pays a salary in excess of $100,000 per year. The opportunities for advancement in radiology are extremely high right now due to the shortage of skilled radiologists and the ever increasing demand for medical imaging procedures.
Radiology Degree Frequently Asked Questions:
Do any schools offer online radiology programs or evening degree radiology programs?
Yes, check out our list of schools offering online radiology degrees. Because use of specialized equipment is a must in a radiology education, almost all radiology programs will require your attendance at a physical location; however, most of the curriculum can be accomplished with online courses. If you are already in radiology or healthcare, you may qualify for an online fast track program.
Radiology Certificate Programs FAQ's
How long does it take to finish a radiology certificate program?
Radiology certificate programs take approximately one school year to finish; however, there are some programs that can be completed in as little as six months.
Can I get a certificate to be a radiolgic technologist without getting an associates degree?
There are many certificate programs or diplomas that will prepare you for the ARRT exam, which will qualify you as a radiologic technologist. You will first want to check your state radiology license requirements to determine if you must be certified through the ARRT. It is also recommended that you look at some radiology job listings in your area and look at the qualification requirements. Find out if a radiology certificate will be sufficient education or if you will need to pursue an associates degree to be competitive in your area. This will help you make the best decision about the degree level you will want to pursue. School representatives will also be able to give you some insight into local job markets.
Are there any prerequisites for radiology certificates?
Radiology certificate programs are offered for those who are entering the field of radiology and also for those who have already been working in the field and want to expand their skill set or learn a radiology specialization such as CT tech or MRI tech.
What types of radiology certificates are available?
Radiology certificates fall into two categories. The first category is for those entering the field, and the second is for those looking to expand their skills in the field. Here is a list of the more common certificates you will find in radiology school programs:
- X-ray technician
- Medical assistant with x-ray focus
- CT (Computed Tomography)
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
- Mammography
- Ultrasound Tech (associates is more prevalent)
- Cardiovascular Ultrasound
- Nuclear Medicine
What can I do with a radiology certificate?
A radiology certificate will provide you with the fundamental knowledge you will need in radiologic sciences in order to gain entry level positions. If you are already working in radiology, completing a certificate program in a radiology specialization will prepare you for expanded duties or promotion.
What kinds of radiology jobs can I get with a certificate in radiology?
You can expect to get a job as a Radiologic Technologist once you have received your radiology certificate and passed the ARRT exam. Some choose to start by completing a certificate to perform basic x-rays and get a job doing limited x-ray work, then purse registration with the ARRT later.
Do any schools offer online radiology programs or evening degree radiology programs?
Yes, check out our list of schools offering online radiology degrees and certificates. Since radiology is a hands on job, most online degrees will require some applied training in an imaging facility near you.
What if I have additional questions about Radiology Certificates??
Remember that you can use this site to request information from schools. Once you have submitted your request, a school representative will contact you. At that time you can get additional questions answered about program specifics and what to expect from a radiology certificate program.
Radiology Bachelor's FAQ's
Why pursue a bachelors degree in radiology?
A bachelor's degree in radiology is a more robust educational experience than an associates degree or certificate, with emphasis in advanced radiology modalities and/or healthcare management. Individuals who would like to purse management or lead positions will benefit from a bachelor's in radiology.
What types of jobs can I get with a radiology bachelors degree?
A bachelors degree in radiology will put you a step above the rest and will position you for leadership roles and salary increases. Some examples of positions you will be qualified for are:
- Radiology Program Director
- Lead Radiologic Technologist
- Radiological Trainer
- Radiologic Equipment Sales Director
- Diagnostic Imaging Center Director
How long does it take to finish a bachelors degree in radiology?
A bachelor's degree in radiology takes approximately four years from start to finish; however, most students who pursue a bachelor's radiology degree have already completed an associates degree or some formal training and have experience working in the field, so from this point, it would only take two years to complete.
Are there any prerequisites?
An associates degree is required before you can enter a radiology bachelor's degree program. Each school has different requirements, so it is important to request information and discuss the requirements with a school representative.
What kind of radiology courses will I be taking?
- anatomy and physiology
- medical terminology
- radiographic procedures
- patient positioning
- radiation safety
- radiographic pathology
- clinical education
*see our radiology courses page for more detail.
Will there be any real life radiology training?
Yes, almost all radiology programs offer on the job radiology training or job shadowing. For example, a bachelors degree program may entail shadowing leaders of imaging centers in order to understand the day to day activities.
Do any schools offer online radiology programs or evening degree radiology programs?
Yes, check out our list of schools offering online radiology degrees. Obtaining your radiology bachelors degree using online or hybrid online/campus programs is a convenient way to continue working and earning income in your current job while working towards your bachelors degree.