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Top Online Accredited Rad Tech Programs for 2024

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.

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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.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, radiologic technologists earn a median salary of $61,900 as of May 2020. The top 10% of professionals in the field earned a reported $92,660. Additionally, the BLS expects that radiology techs will experience a growth rate of 7% which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Hopeful professionals can conveniently earn 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. Ready to find your online radiology tech program?

The Best Online Radiology Tech Programs for 2024

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. We’ve also spotlighted three programs in full so you can begin to visualize your journey from start to finish. See who stands out for 2024.

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About the ranking

X

Base Methodology for EduMed’s Best Online College Rankings for the ’23-’24 school year.

One: Create list of Eligible Schools and Programs

To be eligible, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.

  • Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • At least 1 online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.

Two: Assign Weighting

After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the schools themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS. 

The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted. 

Online Programs – Number of online programs in the relevant subject area.

Online Student % – Number of total students who are enrolled in at least 1 distance-learning course in the relevant subject area.

Tuition – The average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.

Institutional Aid – Percent of full-time undergraduate students who are awarded institutional grant aid, as self-reported by the school.

Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.

Career Placement Services – Existence of this service on campus or online.

Student/Faculty Ratio

About Our DataEduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2023

# School Name Type Tuition Online Programs More Details School Information Online Students Academic Counseling Career Placement Students w/Institutional Aid Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry Accreditation
1 University of Louisiana at MonroeMonroe, LA Public $ 2

The Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology program from the University of Louisiana Monroe is designed for radiologic technologists who have their ARRT certifications and wish to take the next step in their careers. The radiologic technology degree not only helps them learn more about advancements in specialized medical imaging procedures but also provides skills and knowledge to take on supervisory and/or administrative roles. To graduate, students need 120 credits but receive 38 credits from their ARRT certification. The remaining credits can be completed 100% online.

Program Highlights:

BS in Radiologic Technology

  • Credits: 120
  • Length: Varies
  • Cost: $400 per credit
  • Mode: Fully online
  • Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
18/1
Online
Student %
53%
2 Baptist Health System School of Health ProfessionsSan Antonio, TX Private for-profit $$ 2

Upon completion of the Baptist Health Systems School of Health Professions Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology, students are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists exam. The coursework contains both online and classroom components to provide scheduling flexibility and group learning opportunities. Students must also complete clinical practicums at a hospital or other healthcare provider with outpatient-imaging services. Students are assigned a site randomly, and practicum locations are within 90 miles of the main campus.

Program Highlights:

AAS in Radiologic Technology

  • Credits: 60
  • Length: About 2 years
  • Cost: $400 per credit
  • Mode: Partially online
  • Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
7/1
Online
Student %
100%
3 Presentation CollegeAberdeen, SD Private not-for-profit $$$$ 2

The Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology program from Presentation College offers convenient learning through completely online coursework the first year. The second year focuses on in-person clinical experiences. Students can complete the program in about seven semesters through the standard program track. If they want to graduate sooner, though, they can enroll in the accelerated option and graduate in six uninterrupted semesters.

Program Highlights:

Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology

  • Credits: Varies
  • Length: 6-7 semesters
  • Cost: $575 per credit
  • Mode: Partially online
  • Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
11/1
Online
Student %
70%
4 Lewis-Clark State CollegeLewiston, ID Public $ 2 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
15/1
Online
Student %
51%
5 Northwestern State University of LouisianaNatchitoches, LA Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
19/1
Online
Student %
88%
6 Rasmussen University-WisconsinGreen Bay, WI Private for-profit $$ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
12/1
Online
Student %
96%
7 Midwestern State UniversityWichita Falls, TX Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
17/1
Online
Student %
65%
8 East Tennessee State UniversityJohnson City, TN Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
15/1
Online
Student %
61%
9 University of IowaIowa City, IA Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
15/1
Online
Student %
54%
10 Southwest University at El PasoEl Paso, TX Private for-profit $$ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
16/1
Online
Student %
100%
11 ECPI UniversityVirginia Beach, VA Private for-profit $$$ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
11/1
Online
Student %
48%
12 Marian UniversityFond Du Lac, WI Private not-for-profit $$$$ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
12/1
Online
Student %
35%
or
About the ranking

X

Base Methodology for EduMed’s Best Online College Rankings for the ’23-’24 school year.

One: Create list of Eligible Schools and Programs

To be eligible, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.

  • Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • At least 1 online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.

Two: Assign Weighting

After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the schools themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS. 

The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted. 

Online Programs – Number of online programs in the relevant subject area.

Online Student % – Number of total students who are enrolled in at least 1 distance-learning course in the relevant subject area.

Tuition – The average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.

Institutional Aid – Percent of full-time undergraduate students who are awarded institutional grant aid, as self-reported by the school.

Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.

Career Placement Services – Existence of this service on campus or online.

Student/Faculty Ratio

About Our DataEduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2023

# School Name Type Tuition Online Programs More Details School Information Online Students Academic Counseling Career Placement Students w/Institutional Aid Median Earnings 10yrs After Entry Accreditation
1 Lakeshore Technical CollegeCleveland, WI Public $ 1

The Associate Degree in Radiology from Lakeshore Technical College is a joint venture with Nicolet College and Gateway Technical College. Most classes are taught on Lakeshore's campus and through video conference with Nicolet and Gateway colleges. Most courses are in-person, though some general education courses can be completed online. Besides classroom learning, students must also complete clinicals, which take place during the evenings, weekends, and summer.

Program Highlights:

Associate Degree in Radiology

  • Credits: 69
  • Length: About 2 years
  • Cost: $146.20 per credit (resident) and $219.30 per credit (non-resident)
  • Mode: Partially online
  • Accreditation: Joint Reivew Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
11/1
Online
Student %
66%
2 New Mexico State University-Dona AnaLas Cruces, NM Public $ 1

The Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology from Doña Ana Community College offers on-campus and online courses. Online courses primarily cover general education, and most of the radiologic-related coursework are in a physical classroom. Students also complete several hands-on training courses or clinical practicums. There are multiple locations within southern New Mexico and Texas where students can complete these experiential learning requirements.

Program Highlights:

Radiologic Technology -- Associate Degree of Applied Science

  • Credits: 67
  • Length: 6 semesters
  • Cost: $76.75 to $236.35 per credit depending on residency
  • Mode: Partially online
  • Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
19/1
Online
Student %
87%
3 Oconee Fall Line Technical CollegeSandersville, GA Public $ 1

Oconee Fall Line Technical Colleges' Associate Degree of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology is a hybrid program with courses offered in several formats. Some general education courses can be completed online, but most of the radiologic-related coursework is completed at the Dublin South Campus. Additionally, students must complete several courses with in-person training at hospitals and other healthcare sites. At the end of the program, students are ready to become certified radiologic technologists by obtaining their ARRT credentials.

Program Highlights:

Radiologic Technology Associate Degree of Applied Science

  • Credits: 77
  • Length: About 17 months
  • Cost: $100 per credit (resident) and $200 per credit (non-resident)
  • Mode: Partially online
  • Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
11/1
Online
Student %
56%
4 Gwinnett Technical CollegeLawrenceville, GA Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
16/1
Online
Student %
61%
5 Hinds Community CollegeRaymond, MS Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
17/1
Online
Student %
44%
6 Lamar Institute of TechnologyBeaumont, TX Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
21/1
Online
Student %
55%
7 Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical CollegeCumberland, KY Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
17/1
Online
Student %
50%
8 Owens Community CollegePerrysburg, OH Public $ 1 Academic
Counseling
Yes
Career
Placement
Yes
Student/
Faculty Ratio
14/1
Online
Student %
47%

Miami Dade College

Miami-Dade-College

In addition to eight campuses and 21 outreach centers in southern Florida, Miami Dade College also caters to students seeking flexibility by offering distance education programs. One popular option is the associate degree in radiography. This program, comprising 77 credits, usually takes six semesters – or two years – to complete. Once all course requirements are met, students can sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists’ Board Exam to become registered.

In addition to a range of general education topics, degree seekers complete major-specific courses in areas of radiographic positioning, radiographic technology, radiation biology, and new imaging modalities in radiology. Many of these classroom courses have attached lab or clinical classes to ensure learners get hands-on experience. Students may need to visit campus to complete these components, or they may be able take them at a site approved by the school near their residence. Prospective students should check with the admissions advisor to be clear. In terms of cost, individuals living in the state of Florida pay an estimated tuition cost of $9,102.94 for the whole program, while those living elsewhere pay $30,993.27

Rasmussen College

Rasmussen-College

Although Rasmussen College maintains its headquarters in Minnesota, the school also has campuses in Florida, Kansas, Illinois, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and online. The radiologic technology associate degree can be completed in just two years of full-time study and receives accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. Some of the topics covered in this program include radiographic positioning and anatomy, radiobiology and radiation protection, introduction to radiology and patient care, and advanced modalities in radiology. All told, students complete 108 credits – 76 of which relate directly to the degree. The remaining credits are used for general education topics.

From the day they enroll, program administrators work with students to prepare them to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists examination. Rasmussen also pays the fee for this exam the first time they take it. Learners can complete the program mostly online and take advantage of Flex Choice self-directed assessments. This allows students who already completed some radiologic coursework to receive credit without needing to take and pay for classes.

How Online Radiology Tech Programs Work

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.

  • Available online

    Medical terminology. Usually taken in the first semester, this class familiarizes learners with common words and terms used within the medical profession, with emphasis on how understanding prefixes and suffixes, combined with root words, can help them ascertain meaning. Students also learn the definitions and pronunciations of each.

    Human Anatomy. This course introduces students to the human body, with emphasis on articular, circulatory, digestive, endocrine, excretory, integumentary, lymphatic, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, and skeletal systems and how they work.

    Communications. Because radiologic technologists work with many different types of doctors and patients, learning how to communicate clearly and effectively serves as a crucial skill. This class introduces topics in professional and compassionate communication.

    Principles of Exposure. Students in this class learn about the basics of x-rays and image acquisition, with specific focus on interactions between radiation and the human body, digital imaging, and beam attenuation characteristics.

    Radiologic Procedures. This class introduces learners to safe procedures for using radiologic techniques for the appendicular skeleton, abdomen, and chest while also teaching students about radiologic positioning, correct exposure, radiation protection, intensifying screens, and computerized radiography.

    Radiobiology. Often taken in the second year, this advanced class provides an in-depth study of topics such as radiation safety practices, how ionizing radiation provides somatic and genetic effects, radiation measurements and regulations, and radiation biology.

    Digital Imaging. Students covers common topics within digital medical imaging, including picture archiving systems, image processing, display and quality, principles of exposure, image acquisition, cassette vs. digital systems, and image quality standards.

  • In-Person Only

    Clinical externship. Similar to an internship, this course requires learners to spend a certain number of hours at an approved facility where they can gain real-life skills that they will use as a radiographic technologist. Although students do not need to visit campus for this class, they must visit the externship site weekly.

    Radiology Positioning Lab. Typically offered on-campus rather than at an approved facility, this hands-on course helps students build skills in human anatomy, radiographic positioning, and how to provide appropriate patient care during examinations and x-rays.

    Radiographic Positioning Clinical. Students home in on the nuances of positioning, with focus on topics such as angiography, arthrography, cholangiography, hysterosalpingography, and myelography. Students also learn how to alter techniques if a patient has experienced injury or trauma.

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.

Accreditation & Licensing for Radiologic Technologists

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.

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)

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.

The American Registry for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists (ARMRIT)

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.

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

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.