Basics of a Radiology Technician Online Degree
An radiology technician online degree program provides training in the use of x-ray machines and to a limited extent their calibration and maintenance. Classes might include anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, radiobiology, radiographic procedures, radiographic pathology, medical imaging, clinical practices and patient care. Students enrolled in associate's or bachelor's degree programs might also have general education classes in English composition, psychology, algebra, physics and computers. Because the courses are online, students have to arrange an externship at a nearby medical facility for hands on experience. A certificate is typically completed in one year, an associate's degree in two years and a bachelor's degree in four years.
What Can I Do With a Radiology Technician Online Degree?
Students who earn a radiology technician degree online can find positions as radiologic technicians and technologists at independent clinics and hospitals. Most radiologists are employed by hospitals. Job experience and further training can lead to positions working with other types of diagnostic imaging equipment, such as CT scanners and MRI machines. Technicians who go on to earn a masters degree in business management or health administration can potentially become radiology department directors. Degree holders who have worked in the field have also moved on to related positions as sales representatives or instructors with radiology programs and equipment manufacturers.
Employment Outlook for Careers Related to a Radiology Technician Online Degree
The Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, projects 15 percent growth in employment of radiologic technicians between 2006 and 2016, a faster rate than average compared with other categories. Growth will be driving by the health needs of an aging population and wider adoption of medical imaging technology by clinics and at the offices of private physicians as prices for the equipment decline. According to Payscale.com, as of 2009 x-ray technicians earned a median salary of $38,000 and radiology technologists earned $42,000.
