Radiography
This six-semester program instructs healthcare professionals in diagnostic x-ray techniques. Graduates are prepared to perform a variety of functions in medical imaging departments of hospitials, clinics, and other health care facilities. To pursue this career, you must enjoy math and science, be a caring, compassionate person, be very precise about your work and be able to communicate effectively.
Graduates of the Radiography Program are prepared to perform a variety of functions in the medical imaging departments of hospitals, clinics and other health care facilities. The student receives experience in the operation of diagnostic imaging equipment in general health, emergency and surgical settings.
Coursework is taken on the ICC campuses with extensive clinical experience provided at Methodist Medical Center, Pekin Hospital and Proctor Hospital, under qualified supervision. During the 23-month educational period, students will participate in 1,600-1,700 clock hours of clinical experience including evenings and weekends.
The Radiography program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, 20 N Wacker Dr, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606, (312) 704-5300.
Graduates are eligible to apply to take the national certification examination in diagnostic radiography of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Opportunities for graduates are many and varied. Salaries for entry level radiographers are competitive with other health professionals with similar education backgrounds.
Radiographers are medical personnel who perform diagnostic imaging examinations using x-rays. They are educated in anatomy, patient positioning, examination techniques, equipment protocols, radiation safety, radiation protection and basic patient care. They may specialize in a specific imaging technique, such as bone densitometry, cardiovascular-interventional technology, computed tomography, mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medicine, or sonography. The radiologic technologists who specialize in radiation therapy, which is the delivery of high doses of radiation to treat cancer and other diseases, are radiation therapists and medical dosimetrists.
Radiographers must complete at least two years of formal education in an accredited program and must pass a national certification examination. To remain registered, they must earn continuing education credits and to maintain certification, they are rquired to demostrate continued qualifications every 10 years. The job outlook is very bright.
Links to Professional Organizations
American Society of Radiologic Technologists
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Illinois State Society of Radiologic Technologists
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology