Radiologic Technology: Education, Careers, and Certification in California

Radiography is an imaging technique that uses radiation to create visual displays of the human body and internal organs. Radiologic technologists are health professionals who use radiographic techniques to create X-rays, MRIs, and other electromagnetic images that are used to help diagnose and treat patients. After nurses and physicians, radiologic technologists are one of the largest groups of health professionals in the country (ARRT). 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.

AAS in Radiologic Technology at Touro University California

You can earn your A.A.S. degree in only two years and prepare to earn your license to work assisting with X-rays, MRIs and more. Gain the skills needed for a rewarding career as a Radiologic Technologist! Our program is full-time with a lock-step curriculum. The program is cohort-based and has a fall start date. Including two summer semesters, it can be completed in two years. Our radiologic program combines world-class didactic training and hands-on clinical experience.

You’ll learn: Diagnostic medical imaging, Equipment operation, Radiographic procedures, Patient care, and Radiation safety and protection. In your first semester, you'll develop a strong foundation in related scientific areas like human anatomy and physiology, as well as learn the core principles of imaging technology. Learn how to X-ray specific anatomical areas, how to care for patients, and learn about more complex scientific topics like radiation physics.

Beyond coursework, students have ample opportunities to master new technical skills as they rotate through clinical sites, performing procedures under the supervision of certified technologists. A wide range of imaging instruments are available for student use, including simulated, non-energized laboratory equipment to help implement concepts learned in the classroom.

Key Learning Outcomes

Students graduating from the AAS in RT Program will be able to:

• Demonstrate appropriate technical skills in the clinical setting.
• Demonstrate effective written and oral communication.
• Demonstrate proper positioning skills.
• Exhibit proficiency in performing radiographic exams.
• Demonstrate professionalism.

Training and Education Schools in California

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. Training is available at several institutions:

• Bakersfield College: Offers a Radiologic Technology Associate of Science degree which is a two-year, JRCERT-accredited program. Graduates are eligible to sit for the ARRT exam, the State of California CRT licensure, and the Fluoroscopy Permit exam.
• CBD College: Offers an 18 month AAS MRI Tech program with externship that follows the ARRT Primary Pathway.
• Central California Dental Academy: Provides a 32-hour Radiology Course equipping students with skills in dental X-ray procedures, including 8 hours of lecture, 12 hours of lab, and 12 hours of clinical hands-on training.
• Long Beach City College: The Diagnostic Medical Imaging program provides an Associate in Science degree and multiple certificates, including Radiologic Technology, CT, and MRI.
• Pima Medical Institute: A 24 month on campus Radiography Associate Degree Program studying anatomy and physiology and radiographic techniques.
• San Joaquin Delta College: A full-time, 24-month training that awards a Certificate of Achievement and prepares graduates for California state CRT licensure.

Salary and Employment Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage in 2023 was approximately $76,020 for radiographers and MRI technologists nationwide. The outlook for future students is even brighter. The BLS reports an expected 6% growth in employment for radiologic technologists between 2023 and 2033. California is also one of the top 5 states with the highest employment level of radiologic technologists.

Employment Data Summary:

• California Mean Wage: $95,170 per year (highest annual mean wage in the country).
• National Median Pay: $76,000 annually ($36.00 per hour).
• Projected Employment Growth: 6% (2023–2033).
• Typical Associate Degree Length: 24 Months / 2 Years.
• Certificate Program Duration: Can be completed in as little as 1 year.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Touro University California Rad Tech Program is accredited by both WASC and CDPH-RHB (California Department of Public Health-Radiation Health Branch). All students meeting the graduation requirements will be eligible to take the National Certifying Examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). It's necessary to have an associate’s degree to sit for the certifying exam. Upon successfully completing the ARRT examination, you will also receive a California license to practice radiography in the State of California.

As noted by John Ellis, MS-HA, CRT (R/F), ARRT: “A good radiographer is someone who knows radiography by the book, but a great radiographer is someone who can apply those skills to taking care of patients in a traumatic situation.”