The Radiographic Imaging program is designed to prepare the graduate as both a radiographer and computed tomography technologist for positions in diagnostic radiology departments in hospitals, clinics and other health agencies. The responsibility of the radiographer and CT technologist is to produce a radiograph (X-ray) of the highest diagnostic quality of a designated area of the human body. It is from this film that the radiologist or physician makes an interpretation and diagnosis.

The Radiographic Imaging program incorporates classroom sessions, lab practice and clinical education at area hospitals. It is the objective of the program to provide a structured approach to the technical skills necessary to safely administer radiation to patients and evaluate the resulting images.

The Rhodes State Radiographic Imaging Program has an outstanding clinical education system including 10 major clinical education settings. Rotation through several of these settings allows the students to experience a wide variety of imaging departments, procedures and equipment.

Upon successful completion of the program, an associate degree is awarded and students are eligible to sit for the Certification Examination in Radiography offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Additional Resources

• American Society of Radiologic Technologists
• Ohio Society of Radiologic Technologists
• Joint committee on Education in Radiologic Technology

The Radiographic Imaging Program exists to provide the student with a stimulating environment in which to achieve educational and personal growth while developing a sense of professionalism combined with the technical and interpersonal skills necessary for success as a radiographic imaging technologist. In addition, the Distance Education format of the Radiographic Imaging Program provides surrounding communities with qualified, professional healthcare specialists.

Graduates of the program find employment as radiographers in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices and mobile units, as well as numerous specialty fields including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, mammography and vascular procedures. In addition, radiography is considered the foundation for careers in diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound), radiation therapy and nuclear medicine.

Graduates may also qualify for job opportunities with commercial firms and (once advanced academic credentials are obtained), may compete for faculty appointments in radiography education as well as radiology administration positions. According to the 2007 Rhodes State graduate survey, 100% of Radiographic Imaging graduates (who returned the survey) either returned to college full time or have been employed with average starting salary of $40,093.

The Radiographic Imaging Program is accredited by the:

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology

20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850 Chicago, IL 60606-3182

(312) 704-5300

e-mail: mail@jrcert.org

The program has held this accreditation status since inception in 1976.

In addition to the general admission requirements for all students, the following specific requirements have been established for Radiographic Imaging applicants:

1. ACT composite score of 21 or higher; individual test scores of 25 or higher in mathematics; 20 or higher in natural science; 18 or higher in English and Social Science or other appropriate test scores/developmental coursework. (See 1a under “Acceptance into an Allied Health Major” in the catalog).

2. A minimum 2.5 grade point average (GPA) for any previous college course work at the time of selection and matriculation.

3. Current cardiopulmonary resuscitation qualification in one of the following: Basic Life Support for the Healthcare Provider (CPR & AED) from American Heart Association; CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer or Adult, Infant and Child CPR or Adult CPR/AED plus Child CPR and Infant CPR from American Red Cross; Professional level CPR/AED from American Safety & Health Institute. 

4. Satisfactory physical examination results from a physician to include specified laboratory tests and immunizations. Students are not permitted to attend clinical education until this requirement has been satisfied. The Radiographic Imaging Program also has technical standards of which all students must be capable. These standards specify skills necessary to participate in learning activities and professional practice.

5.  To meet the requirements of our clinical affiliates, both a criminal background check and a drug screen are mandatory prior to clinical experiences for all RAD students.  Anyone with a prior felony and/or some misdemeanors is at risk.  Refer to the Criminal Background Checks and Drug Screening paragraph in the Division of Allied Health section in the current college catalog for details.

Requirements 3, 4 and 5 are mandatory prior to clinical experiences.  Applicants who do not meet academic requirements may plan a program of study under the guidance of the Academic Advisor for Allied Health to prepare for possible admission to the program.

NOTICE TO PROSPECTIVE OR CURRENT RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING STUDENTS

You are at risk if you have been convicted of a prior felony and/or some misdemeanors. You may not be able to participate in clinical education experiences at some hospitals or other clinical sites; therefore preventing you from completing the program. A criminal record may also prevent you from obtaining a license or certificate in your chosen healthcare profession.

Admission to this program is limited; therefore, it is advisable to submit application materials as soon as possible.