Radiologic Technology

The Radiologic Technology Associate in Science degree from Bakersfield College is a two-year program that prepares students for careers as radiologic technologists. The program covers a broad range of topics, including patient care, radiation safety, anatomy, and imaging techniques.

The Radiologic Technology (Rad-Tech) program provides the theory, skill, and experience necessary to apply for admission to the licensure exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and for licensure from the State of California, Department of Public Health, Radiologic Health Branch, as a Certified Radiologic Technologist (CRT). The student is also eligible to take the State Fluoroscopy Permit exam. Students must earn a minimum grade of “C” in all radiography courses, meet the state-mandated curriculum and clinical hours, meet all clinical education competencies, and earn the Associate in Science degree to be recommended for these examinations/certifications.

ACCREDITATION STATUS

• The BC Radiologic Technology Program is fully accredited by the JRCERT (8-year award)
• JRCERT Program #0009
• California RHB School ID#1004
• JRCERT Fully Accredited- 8 years
• Most Recent JRCERT Site Visit: Nov. 2016
• Next Tentative JRCERT Site Visit: Fourth Quarter 2024

PROGRAM ACCREDITATION AND STATE APPROVAL

Bakersfield College is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The Radiologic Technology Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60603-3182, 312-704-5300 mail@jrcert.org and jrcert.org. The Program is also approved by the State of California, Department of Public Health, Radiologic Health Branch, PO Box 997414, MS-7610, Sacramento, CA 95899-7414, 916-327-5106 or cdph.ca.gov/rhb.

What is Radiologic Technology?

Radiologic technology is a healthcare profession that involves the use of medical imaging to diagnose and treat patients. Radiologic technologists use a variety of imaging modalities, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasound, to create images of the inside of the body. These images are used by physicians to identify and diagnose a wide range of medical conditions, from broken bones to cancer. Radiologic technologists work closely with patients to ensure that they are comfortable and safe during imaging procedures, and they are responsible for maintaining and operating imaging equipment to produce high-quality images.

Is Studying Radiologic Technology Right for Me?

An individual who is interested in healthcare and enjoys working with technology would benefit from a Radiologic Technology Associate Degree. This degree program is well-suited for individuals who are detail-oriented, enjoy problem-solving, and are comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. Radiologic technologists need to be compassionate and able to work well with patients who may be in pain or distress. They must also have strong communication skills to effectively communicate with physicians and other healthcare professionals. Additionally, individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare but prefer not to work directly with patients may find a career in radiologic technology to be a good fit.

Here are some key traits and skills that would make someone a good fit for studying radiologic technology:

• Attention to detail
• Technical skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Critical thinking
• Physical stamina
• Adaptability
• Professionalism

Radiologic Technology Degree and Certificates

Radiologic Technology Associate of Science Degree

Radiologic Technology is a health care profession whose practitioners work in hospitals, imaging centers, and private physicians’ offices. The radiologic technologist (radiographer) is a member of the health care team who works directly with the patient and the physician performing a wide variety of diagnostic x-ray procedures.

Mammography Program COCM (NC)

This certificate of completion will provide students the MQSA required 40 hours of Mammography education to apply for the State of California Mammography Licensure Examination. 

Principles of Venipuncture Job Skills Certificate

The certificate is part of the Career and Technical Education program which prepares students for employment in medical imaging and permits individuals to administer contrast media for x-ray examinations as part of their job as a radiologic technologist.

Principles of Fluoroscopy Job Skills Certificate

This certificate provides fluoroscopy skills for students completing the Associate in Science Radiologic Technology program. The certificate is part of the Career and Technical Education program which prepares students for State licensure which is necessary for employment in the field of x-ray technology.

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Radiologic Technology Careers

There are several career options available to individuals with an Radiologic Technology Associate Degree. Here are a few examples:

• Radiologic Technologist: Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, and assist physicians in diagnosing and treating medical conditions.
• Radiologic Technologist Manager: Radiologic Technologist Managers oversee a team of technologists, manage departmental operations, and ensure that imaging procedures meet regulatory standards.
• Radiologic Technologist Instructor: Radiologic Technologist Instructors teach and train aspiring radiologic technologists, helping to shape the future of the profession.
• Mammographer: Mammographers specialize in performing mammograms, which are imaging exams used to detect breast cancer.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist: CT Technologists specialize in performing CT scans, which create detailed images of internal organs, bones, and tissues.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist: MRI Technologists specialize in performing MRI scans, which create detailed images of the inside of the body using powerful magnets and radio waves.
• Interventional Radiologic Technologist: Interventional Radiologic Technologists use imaging guidance to perform minimally invasive procedures, such as angioplasty or biopsies, to diagnose or treat medical conditions.

For more career information it is highly recommended students consult the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) at asrt.org. Review the ASRT “career center” section of the website and explore careers in radiography, radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, and sonography.

Academic Department: Allied Health

Career & Learning Pathway: Health Sciences (HS) Pathway

Courses: Radiologic Technology (RADT)