Bachelor’s in Radiologic Technology Program Guide

Radiologic technologists work with complex medical equipment, such as X-ray machines, ultrasound machines, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, to diagnose and track diseases and injuries.

One way to become a radiologic technologist is to get a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology. In this program, you’ll study topics like medical imaging, anatomy, and radiation protection. After you graduate, you can work with diverse populations in various healthcare settings.

Keep reading to learn more about what a bachelor’s in radiologic technology entails and whether this degree is right for you.

A radiologic technology degree program focuses on advanced imaging techniques and teaches you how to evaluate the images you create. You can specialize in X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and other medical imaging techniques.

You’ll also study anatomy and physiology, patient care, advanced imaging technology, and radiation safety.

Along with performing research, you’ll likely complete one or more clinical internships to gain healthcare experience. Hands-on training is a key part of most bachelor’s in radiologic technology programs since the role requires direct patient contact.

In both in-person and hybrid programs, you can safely simulate radiographic positions on classmates without risking radiation exposure.

The best bachelor’s in radiologic programs prepare you to work in all areas of medical imaging. You’ll learn how to use complex medical equipment to diagnose and monitor diseases and other health conditions.

You can choose from several concentrations, such as computed tomography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance imaging, and diagnostic medical sonography.

Common courses you might take for a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology include:

Curious about how to earn a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology? Learn how long these programs take and how to apply.

Most students spend four years earning their radiologic technology degree. That said, some schools may offer accelerated and degree-completion options in radiologic technology, reducing the time you spend on your degree.

For example, the accelerated radiographic science program at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences takes 32 months to complete.

In comparison, The Ohio State University’s online AS-to-BS completion degree in radiologic sciences and therapy takes two years to complete, as it’s geared toward certified radiology professionals who already have an associate degree.

UC Blue Ash College offers an accelerated three-year bachelor’s in radiologic imaging technology program.

Bachelor’s programs in radiologic technology typically require a GED or high school diploma. Biology, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and physics are common prerequisites.

Many bachelor’s in radiologic technology programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0, like the University of Missouri. Some programs, however, such as Ohio State’s, accept a 2.5 GPA. Kent State Online requires a minimum 2.75 GPA.

You’ll need to provide transcripts to show you’ve completed your general educational requirements and to emphasize your science and math skills.

Admissions materials typically consist of:

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition at a four-year in-state university was $9,750 in 2022-2023. For private school students, the average tuition cost was $35,248.

While radiologic technology degree programs can charge wildly different rates, tuition is generally cheapest if you attend an in-state school.

For example, the University of Missouri’s online program charges $648 per credit, with an estimated program cost of $19,437. Plus, there are a number of additional fees, such as fees for a nationwide background check, immunizations, and a drug panel.

Approximate tuition costs for Kent State Online’s radiologic imaging sciences technology program run at $16,100-$24,100 for Ohio residents and $24,300-$24,700 for nonresidents.

Illinois’s College of DuPage charges an estimated $13,879 for its radiography bachelor’s program.

There are a number of high-paying jobs for graduates of bachelor’s in radiologic technology programs. Take a look below to learn what opportunities await you.

Most graduates of bachelor’s in radiologic technology programs work as radiologic and MRI technologists. Grads often find work in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and doctor’s offices.

That said, there are a range of specializations within radiologic technology. Some employers require a bachelor’s degree for more advanced roles such as radiation therapy and nuclear medicine.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that jobs for radiologic and MRI technologists will grow 6% between 2023 and 2033, which is faster than average.

You’ll need at least an associate degree to work as a radiologic or MRI technologist. Still, earning a bachelor’s may qualify you for higher pay and management roles.

Most states also require you to be certified or licensed. You can get certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and/or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT).

Radiologic and MRI technologists earned a median annual salary of $76,020 in 2023, according to the BLS. That’s $36.55 per hour.

Your exact pay will depend on your location, education level, and years of experience, among other factors.

MRI techs tend to earn more due to ther specialized training and the growing need for healthcare professionals in this field. MRI scans are used for an array of diagnostic procedures. Plus, these professionals need additional certifications beyond the requirements for radiologic technologists.