X-Ray Technician Training
What to Expect during X-Ray Training
There are many avenues to becoming a trained X-Ray Technician; however, the most common is to complete either an X-Ray Certificate Program or an associates degree. It is not necessary to complete a bachelor's degree in order to become an x-ray technician unless you are looking to get into a supervisory role. Most X-Ray Technician Training programs are similar. Take a look below at a sample set of curriculum and training you will receive during your x-ray program.
Traditional X-Ray Training Program Classes:
The following classes are what you will typically take during an X-Ray Technician training program:
- Basic Anatomy
- X-Ray Equipment Operation
- Patient Care Principles
- Medical Terminology
- Medical Ethics
- Patient Positioning Techniques & Terminology
- Medical Records Management
- X-Ray Safety
How Long Does X-Ray Technician Training Take?
Most X-Ray Tech Training programs take an academic year to complete. The amount of time it takes depends on whether you are pursuing a certificate or an associates degree. A certificate can be completed in 8 to 12 months and an associates degree in radiology takes two academic years on average. Some schools have highly flexible programs and allow you to stretch your x-ray technician training out further. Some people who work full time may need to complete their training at a slower pace so that their incomes do not get disrupted from their current jobs.
Will I get to work with real X-Ray equipment during my training?
Yes, virtually all x-ray training programs provide ample opportunity to practice taking x-rays on real equipment. Since this is so central to your job as an x-ray technician, the training is often centered around the machine operation and patient positioning. Some programs offer x-ray tech training that includes practice using digital imaging equipment. As we become more entrenched in the digital age, more radiology schools are adding this to their curriculum.
Are there programs that combine Medical Assisting & X-Ray Tech Training?
Many X-Ray Tech Training programs are combined with Medical Assisting Training. This can be beneficial for a number of reasons starting with a wider set of skills to work with. Employers like to hire people who have a more comprehensive set of skills so that they can be used to perform multiple tasks with patients. There are; however, some medical imaging facilities where positions are available for those who only perform x-rays during their work day without additional patient tasks that would require Medical Assisting training. Take a look at job postings in your area and find out if the jobs you want to apply for require or prefer that you also have Medical Assisting training in conjunction with x-ray.
What Jobs Can I get once I've completed my X-Ray Tech Training?
Once you have completed your x-ray training, you may need to become licensed in your state, then you can begin applying for x-ray positions. Typically, you will find positions available in physician's offices, chiropractic offices, outpatient centers, and hospitals. Many X-Ray Technicians work in the field for a year or two, then work towards becoming a Radiologic Technologist, which requires that you pass the ARRT examination. Your first few years on the job are a good time to decide which aspects of medical imaging interests you. You may want to learn more about ultrasound or nuclear medicine.
Radiology Programs:
Fortis Institute
Campus Locations:
WestervilleLooking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.
Programs offered:
Pioneer Pacific College
Campus Locations:
WilsonvillePioneer Pacific College is a nationally recognized college with three Oregon locations. Degree programs are available in Business, Law, Computer Science and Health Services.
Anthem College
Campus Locations:
MinneapolisGet the hands-on training you need to enter the exciting health care or criminal justice fields at Anthem College. Learn from our outstanding professional faculty in a hands-on, real-world environment. We offer financial aid for those who qualify, outstanding student services, placement assistance for graduates, and more.
Ultimate Medical Academy
Campus Locations:
TampaUltimate Medical Academy (UMA) specializes in preparing students just like you for rewarding and challenging careers in Healthcare. While most schools teach many different subjects, UMA is exclusively focused on the healthcare field.
Programs offered:
Concorde
Campus Locations:
MemphisGet your career started with Concorde Career College. Our training programs are short, affordable, and hands-on. We offer training programs in medical assisting, dental assisting, insurance coding, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, vocational/practical nursing, patient care, and more.
Sanford-Brown Institute
Campus Locations:
PittsburghGet everything you need for the medical career you want. Sanford-Brown Institute's advanced programs allow you to complete your certificate or degree program in as little as 9 months. Learn more today.
Programs offered:
Keiser University Campus
Campus Locations:
TallahasseeKeiser University offers accredited degree programs in today's high-demand careers: Healthcare, Technology, Paralegal, Business, Nursing and Legal Studies.
Programs offered:
American Institute - Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Campus Locations:
CliftonAdvance your career with American Institute - Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Our program can be completed in as little as 16 months. We offer program specializations in general or cardiac sonography, both of which include vascular ultrasound training.
Programs offered:
Lincoln Technical Institute
Campus Locations:
Saint PetersburgLincoln Technical Institute provides career-focused, hands-on training programs with industry experienced instructors. Get the skills for a rewarding in-demand career.
For more student consumer information, please visit www.lincolnedu.com/lincolnconsumerinfo
Programs offered:
Sanford-Brown College
Campus Locations:
ClevelandGet the skills you need in Tech, Business, or Healthcare in as little as 9 months from Sanford-Brown College. Choose from convenient day, evening, and weekend classes. Learn more today.
Programs offered:
Kaplan College - KHE
Campus Locations:
Las VegasDon't wait another day to take the next step forward in your career. Kaplan College can give you the real-world knowledge and skills you need to succeed in your chosen field.
Medical Career Institute
Campus Locations:
Newport NewsExperience the Rewards of Caring, With ECPI’s Medical Careers Institute, you can Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree in 2.5 Years or Your Associate’s Even Sooner through Our Year-Round Schedule!
Programs offered:
St. Joseph's College of Maine
Campus Locations:
StandishMany adult learners are enrolled in courses worldwide and are active in distance learning courses at Saint Joseph's College and are in enrolled in programs such as business, education, health care administration, general studies, nursing, and theology.
Programs offered:
ATI Career Training Center
Campus Locations:
MiamiATI has over 35 years of experience helping working adults like you get hands-on career training. Quality programs are offered in healthcare, automotive and electronics.
Programs offered:
Star Career Academy
Campus Locations:
PhiladelphiaStar Career Academy - the career school of choice. What makes us unique, and unlike other trade schools, is the dedication of our staff to provide performance-based occupational training. Students will be prepared for entry-level employment in allied health fields, hotel and restaurant management, cosmetology, or a choice from our professional cooking, culinary, baking or pastry schools. Students gain the knowledge and confidence they need so that they may quickly gain employment and achieve the success they desire.
Programs offered:
