How to Become an X-Ray Tech in California

The demand for X-Ray technicians across the United States is growing quickly. And, the need for these professionals is not expected to go away. If you are looking for a career with good pay, long-term stability and one that you can get into without a four-year degree, you should consider becoming an X-Ray technician. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for x-ray technicians is $76,000 annually, or $36.00 per hour.

What Radiologic Technologists Do

Trained in the “art and science” of creating images of the human body, using ionizing radiation for healthcare imaging, Radiologic Technologists (RTs) work closely with doctors who specialize in radiologic diagnosis (radiologists) and other MDs. While playing vital roles as professional members of medical teams, X-ray Technicians and RTs perform diagnostic X-ray procedures to help isolate injury and ascertain and prevent disease.

Training and Education Pathways

The minimum duration of education and training for prospective x-ray technicians in California is 2 years. However, some students may take more depending on the pathway they pursue and their schedules. Certificate programs, which offer a basic level of training, can be completed in as little as one year. Students pursuing shorter programs may seek additional training under an accredited medical radiologist to fulfill California’s qualification requirements. Associate degree programs, offering more comprehensive training, generally take about 2 years, while Bachelor’s degrees in radiologic technology or related fields can extend the duration to 3 to 4 years.

The cost of completing X-ray technician training can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of program, location, and duration. Consider the following cost estimates:

Tuition, textbooks, clinical fees, and equipment costs are all considerations. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may help offset expenses for eligible students, making it more affordable.

Schools with Radiography or Sonography in California

• Bakersfield College: Radiologic Technology Associate of Science degree is a two-year, JRCERT-accredited program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training.
• CBD College: 18 month AAS MRI Tech program with externship that follows the ARRT Primary Pathway.
• Long Beach City College: Diagnostic Medical Imaging program provides an Associate in Science degree and multiple certificates, including Radiologic Technology, CT, and MRI.
• Pima Medical Institute: 24 month on campus Radiography Associate Degree Program studying anatomy and physiology and radiographic techniques.
• San Joaquin Delta College: The San Joaquin General Hospital–Radiologic Technology Program is a full-time, 24-month training that awards a Certificate of Achievement.
• Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts: Offers an Associate of Occupational Science (A.O.S.) in Radiologic Technology (23 months) and an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Radiologic Technology (24 months).
• Central California Dental Academy: A 32-hour Radiology Course that equips students with advanced skills in dental X-ray procedures.

The A-B-C’s of Getting Started

A = Apply to an Academic Program

Begin by applying to an accredited academic program and having a carefully planned SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats). Clinical experience and coursework are critical components of these programs, ensuring students are well-prepared for their careers.

B = Be Open, Be Prepared, Be Teachable

Always BOLO for programs with clinical experience and a syllabus containing a mixture of theoretical and practical skills. Students should aim to exhibit the positioning skills of an entry-level technologist, evaluate images for diagnostic quality, and utilize proper safety and CDC ALARA practices.

C = Complete Certification

The “ C ” in our RT ABCs stands for complete certification. To become fully vetted, Radiologic Technologists must sit for The National Registry Examination. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam and the State of California CRT licensure. The exam tests knowledge from the following four most heavily represented content areas:

• Patient Care
• Safety
• Image Production
• Procedures