Top Online Accredited Rad Tech Programs
Browse today’s best online rad tech programs, get insider info on courses and curricula, and learn how students are funding their online degrees with scholarships and financial aid.
Radiology technologists (aka radiologic technologists or rad techs) are essential to making proper and sometimes life-saving diagnoses. Working alongside radiologists and other medical professionals, radiology techs use X-ray and computed tomography (CT) imaging to examine patients and create crucial diagnostic images. Their expertise is invaluable to the healthcare field and they need a high-quality education to prepare them for this essential role.
Hopeful professionals can become a radiology tech conveniently by earning their degree from an accredited radiology tech program online. Online programs give students the freedom to study where and when they want while giving them the in-person experience they need to enter the field. Programs typically take two years and culminating in the ARRT exam.
The hard work of rad techs is not only rewarded with the chance to help others, but competitive salaries and job security as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic technologists earn a median salary of $73,410 as of May 2023. The top 10% of professionals in the field earned a reported $102,380. Additionally, the BLS expects that radiology techs will experience a growth rate of 6%, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Finding the perfect online radiology tech program for your needs is easier than you think. Keep reading if you’re ready to kickstart your new promising career today.
School Spotlights: The Best Radiology Tech Programs for You
As more colleges add accredited online radiology tech programs to their offerings, students may feel a bit stressed about picking the right one. Fortunately, EduMed is here to help. We’ve identified the best online schools and programs for aspiring radiologic technologists. We’re listing the most affordable and comprehensive programs with the accreditation you need to begin a rewarding career in the field, so continue on to see which schools stand out.
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewiston, Idaho
Public
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Public
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
Public
Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, Texas
Public
Boise State University
Boise, Idaho
Public
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Public
Friends University
Wichita, Kansas
Private
Marian University
Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin
Private
Doña Ana Community College
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Public
Gwinnett Technical College
Lawrenceville, Georgia
Public
Oconee Fall Line Technical College
Sandersville, Georgia
Public
Owens Community College
Perrysburg, Ohio
Public
Can You Learn Radiology Online?
When looking at radiology tech programs, prospective students quickly notice that most degrees are offered in a hybrid format. Learners can typically complete all general education and subject-specific courses that do not require hands-on lab work online, while externships and clinicals need to be completed in face-to-face settings. Students can get a sense of the types of classes they’ll take in each format below.
Further Reading:
Levels of Radiology Tech Programs Online
Individuals interested in studying radiologic technology online can choose from several degree levels to fit their academic needs. While individuals just starting out on a professional career path often pick the associate or bachelor’s degree to get their foot in the door, those who have worked in the field for several years and want to climb the career ladder may decide to pursue a master’s degree. Consider which fits your current needs best as you read about each below.
Associate Degree in Radiology
Online associate degrees in radiology exist for individuals who want to quickly enter the field and begin working. These programs typically take two years and teach students the foundational principles needed to sit for the ARRT certification exam. This degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles and typically entitles them to introductory salaries. Students complete approximately 60-80 hours in general education and major-specific topics, depending on the program.
Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences
When ascertaining differences between an associate and bachelor’s degree, the most obvious difference is that baccalaureate programs take twice as long. With this extra time, students have the opportunity to study more in-depth topics, take advantage of specializations, and spend more time learning how to use specialized equipment. Individuals who think they may want to complete additional schooling often pursue this path as it allows them to move directly into a master’s program, unlike the associate degree.
Master of Science in Radiologic Sciences
After working in the field, directly with patients and physicians, some radiology technicians decide they want to pursue other options. Enter the master’s in radiologic science. As evidenced by UT’s MD Anderson Center, M.S. in radiologic sciences programs often provide concentrations in administrative leadership or educational leadership for individuals looking to take on managerial or teaching positions. Most programs take two to three years to complete, depending on how much time a student can devote.
Licensing & More: What is the Best Radiology Accreditation?
Attending an accredited school represents an important step in the journey to becoming a radiology tech, as individuals who don’t may find it challenging to transfer credits, compete against other job candidates who attended an accredited school, and, if necessary, receive licensure. Learners should look for institutional and programmatic accreditation. In the former, regional and national accreditation exists, with regional considered the more rigorous option. Students should also seek out programmatic accreditation, which is reviewed below.
As the only programmatic accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation for radiology and radiologic technology, JRCERT exists as the arbiter for on-campus and online programs. Prospective students can use JRCERT’s database to find an accredited program.
For radiology techs who want to specialize in MRI, ARMRIT acts as the only MRI technologist registry and certifying organization. After passing the exam to receive certification, individuals can also post their resumes and review an active job board for open positions.
Since its inception, ARRT has registered more than 330,000 qualified individuals working in interventional procedures, medical imaging, and radiation therapy. The group provides 13 credentialing options, all of which focus on specialization areas within radiology. In order to qualify, applicants must attend an ARRT-approved degree program, demonstrate moral character, and pass the examination. The test is computer-based, with most questions provided as multiple choice. Learners receive a preliminary score on the day and a final score within three weeks. To keep their certification, individuals must seek annual renewal, fulfill continuing education requirements every two years, and meet continuing qualifications requirements every decade.
Specializing as a Rad Tech
In addition to valuable skills and knowledge gained from a general radiography technology degree, the field also provides the opportunity for individuals with specific interests to concentrate their knowledge in a subfield. Some of the most popular are highlighted below.
1. Angiography. For individuals who enjoy detail-oriented work, angiography might be a great specialization for them. This area uses x-rays to see inside blood vessels, chambers, and arteries. Angiographers eliminate images of bones and other organs so the blood vessels are more easily seen.
2. Bone Densitometry. Also known as dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, this type of radiography measures bone mineral density as a way of checking for bone loss. These services are used regularly by osteopaths.
3. Cardiovascular Interventional Radiology. A fascinating specialization, individuals in this field use x-ray technology during procedures to help physicians see within chambers of the heart. This type of radiology is often used during angioplasties.
4. Computed Tomography. A fascinating option for individuals who enjoy a challenge, individuals who specialize in this area work to capture usable images of parts of the body that are usually difficult to reach.
5. Fluoroscopy. Similar to cardiovascular interventional radiology, fluoroscopy is used in real time to help physicians see inside the patient during a procedure. Individuals must know how to use x-ray imaging, fluorescent screens, and video recording devices.
6. Mammography. Individuals who pursue this specialization capture radiation imagery that helps diagnose illnesses and diseases in breasts. Students must learn about a special type of low dose x-ray used to identify cancer cells.
7. Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Also known as MRI, this specialization teaches students to understand magnetic resonance signals and how these can be manipulated to create images that allow for accurate diagnoses.
Paying for Online Radiology Tech School
While many individuals who decide to study radiologic technology dream of making salaries well above the national average, that doesn’t necessarily mean they have the funds on hand to pay for a degree out-of-pocket. Fortunately, students can find many alternative ways of paying for a degree even if they do not have enough money in their savings.
Prospective learners should start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. In addition to becoming eligible for federal grants, loans, and work study funds, many colleges and universities use the information provided on these forms to award institutional and programmatic scholarships. Distance students should also research outside scholarships from local and national radiographic organizations, private foundations, hospitals and other healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and state and local governments. Students looking for more advice about how to avoid substantial student debt should check out EduMed’s comprehensive guide on financial aid and list of scholarships for rad tech students.
Your Questions, Answered
What state pays rad techs the most?
According to reports of annual mean wages in May 2023 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top paying states for radiologic technologists and technicians are:
- California ($103,150)
- Massachusetts ($93,270)
- Hawai’i ($92,170)
- Oregon ($90,610)
- Washington ($89,910)
Can you be a radiologist from home?
Yes: remote radiology, also known as teleradiology, is possible. Despite the many pros to teleradiology, however, it comes with its set of cons. It’s up to you to determine if the advantages outweigh the drawbacks.
For example, the flexibility of working remotely may relieve some pressure from the job, but some subspecializations are not able to be read from a home environment and require an in-person reading. For more of a balance, hybrid teleradiology may appeal to you.
Is radiology certification hard?
With getting into radiology tech schools, specialized training, the ARRT radiography exam, and other licensing, becoming a rad tech has its challenges. Luckily, there are resources available to bolster prospective students’ success, such as guides for acing ARRT certification and for scholarships and other financial aid.
Is it worth it to study radiology?
If you’re looking for a career where you can work in various settings, contribute to innovative research, and don’t mind a heavier workload, the payoff of becoming a radiologist speaks for itself.
