So, you have completed the assessment and decided that you do want to pursue a career as a Radiologic Technologist.
What now ?

Getting started – SEVEN STEPS for Moving Forward in Your Career

Step 1 :: Internet research on radiography programs.

Research schools with Radiography programs. For a comprehensive list of schools in Massachusetts, click here.

Step 2 :: Call the school for more information about the application and admission requirements.

After looking at the school’s website, directly contact the school (or schools) that you are interested in attending. Call early to find out about the application process and the admissions procedures.

Colleges require a CORI check (Criminal Offender Record Information) for all students participating in a clinical assignment. The outcome of a CORI may have an impact on your ability to participate in the clinical. If you think that this may be an issue for you, talk with the school.

Radiology programs are becoming more and more competitive in Massachusetts. Even if you have a good academic background and relevant experience, don’t assume that you will be accepted to the program of your choice the first time around! The numbers of students accepted into Radiography programs range from 10 per year in smaller programs like Springfield Technical Community College to 59 per year for larger programs like Massasoit Community College. The total number of students accepted to radiography programs in Massachusetts is approximately 260 per year (not including specific nuclear medicine or ultrasound programs.)

Step 3 :: Apply early.

Every school has a different application processes and timeline. Some programs like Quinsigamond Community College have a rolling admissions process. This means that the program keeps accepting students year-round until their 20-25 slots are filled. Other schools like Middlesex Community College have a fall start date but applications must be submitted for fall by the end of March. Bunker Hill Community College requires that each prospective student attend an orientation session before being considered for application to their medical imaging program. These sessions are held in the fall for admission to the program the following fall (for example, you would have to attend an orientation session in October, November or December, 2003 to be accepted to a program beginning in September of 2004.)

Step 4 :: Make a plan to meet your financial obligations while in school.

For more details on financial aid, click here. But remember that paying tuition is only one piece to consider when thinking about going to school. You must also be responsible for school fees, books, health insurance, professional liability insurance and uniforms while doing your required clinical assignment.

In addition to school related responsibilities, costs such as rent or mortgage, household expenses, day care, monthly credit card payments and any other financial obligations must be met while you are in school.

If you need to work while in school, make sure that you manage your time in a way that does not interfere with class time, study time or the time that you will need to complete your clinical assignment. Be realistic with how much time you will need and how much money you will need to complete your program.

Step 5 :: Allow enough time to complete your pre-requisites before you begin the program.

Each program has its own admission requirement but most Radiography programs have similar admission criteria, including:

• HS diploma or GED certificate
• High school Algebra (or equivalent if not taken within 5 years)
• Proficiency in reading, writing and math as demonstrated by the school’s assessment process (College Placement Test.)

Your high school courses may not meet the school’s program requirements due to an unsatisfactory grade, the length of time you have been out of school, or not having taken the required courses in high school. In these cases, you will need to complete these courses in order to be eligible for enrollment. You can either take these courses at the school you will be attending, or at another institution and transfer the credits.

Step 6 :: Document all other credits that may be accepted toward your degree.

If you have taken college courses, or have been working in a profession where work is directly related to this field, you may be able to apply your credits to the program. Some schools accept “life experience credit” or “experience-based education” credit toward a degree. Check with the school about their policies and procedures in obtaining credit.

Step 7 :: Arrange your schedule in a way that makes success possible!

Classes may seem challenging, especially for those who have been out of school for a long time or those who may have had a particularly difficult time with certain academic subjects like science and math. Many Radiologic Technologists will tell you that at first they didn’t realize how much time they needed to spend on studying.

Develop a realistic timeline for yourself that will allow the time that you need for classes, studying, family and other activities with which you are involved. Going to school as an adult requires excellent time management skills and the ability to prioritize the things that are important.