How to Choose the Best Radiology Tech College near Decatur Georgia
So you have made the decision to enroll in an X-ray tech school near Decatur GA so you can become a radiologic technologist. But now that you have chosen to enter the gratifying field of healthcare, how do you tackle choosing the right college and program to ensure that you will receive the proper training to become a skilled practitioner? And because most states do mandate that radiology techs become licensed, depending on where you subsequently practice you may need training to pass a licensing examination. So it’s imperative that you investigate each of the X-ray technician schools you are considering so that you can evaluate each program. A number of prospective students begin by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they check tuition and usually gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while expense and location must be taken into account, there are other significant qualifications also. For example, you must ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internship programs. These inquiries and others you must ask the X-ray Tech schools you are examining are provided later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray technician does and the degrees and training options that are available.
X-Ray Tech Occupation Summary in Decatur GA
There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Irrespective of the name, they all have the identical major job description, which is to use imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists might also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many choose to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for example mammography. They can work in Decatur GA clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech might utilize include:
- Traditional and specialized X-Rays
- Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Sonography or ultrasound
- Fluoroscopy
Radiographers have to take care of their equipment plus frequently analyze its functionality and safety. They are also required to retain complete records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
Click Here For Free Information on X-Ray Tech Schools Near You!
Radiology Tech Degrees Offered near Decatur GA
The primary prerequisite for enrolling in an x-ray tech school is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist pupils have the option to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among technicians, generally takes 18 months to two years to complete based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to 4 years to complete and is more extensive in scope. The majority of students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that may be acceptable as well. One thing to keep in mind is that radiographer programs have a practical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It can often be fulfilled by participating in an externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local clinics and hospitals in Decatur GA or their area. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any licensing or certification mandates in Georgia or the state you will be working as applicable.
X-ray Technician Licensing and Certification
Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, depending on the state where you will be practicing you may have to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their criteria differ so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but several approve additional alternatives for testing as well. Some states also call for certification as part of the licensing procedure, if not it is optional. However, many Decatur area employers prefer to hire radiology techs that are certified so it could enhance your career options in and around Decatur GA to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive exam. ARRT also calls for re-certification every other year, which may be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.
Online X-Ray Technician Colleges
As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree programs. So although you can still earn your online degree, a large amount of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off-campus. Practical training is usually provided in Decatur GA family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. But the online portion of the training may be accessed in the comfort of your Decatur residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree often find that the online approach to education is much more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are generally more affordable than conventional alternatives. In addition to reduced tuition, expenses for study materials and commuting can be lessened as well. But just make sure that the online college you choose is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online degree may be the best option for you.
Topics to Ask Radiologic Tech Schools
Once you have chosen the type of degree that you want to obtain, you can start the process of looking for and assessing x-ray tech colleges near Decatur GA. You will also need to determine if you prefer to attend online classes or commute to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the college will be relevant. The cost of tuition and supplementary expenses will be an important variable also. But along with location and cost, what else should you consider when reviewing colleges? Well, you should check out if the colleges are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you uncover some of these essential details before you make your decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you should ask the programs you are considering.
Are the X-Ray Tech Colleges Accredited? The majority of radiology tech schools have obtained some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. Nevertheless, it’s still imperative to verify that the school and program are accredited. One of the most highly respected accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs earning accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous examination of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also help in securing financial assistance and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And a number of Decatur GA health facilities will only hire graduates of an accredited college for entry-level openings.
Are Internship Programs Provided? Inquire if the xray technician schools you are evaluating have partnerships with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific way to obtain hands on experience in a clinical environment, they are additionally a means to fulfill the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As a supplemental benefit, they may assist students and graduates form professional connections in the Decatur GA medical community and assist with job placement.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in Decatur GA in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the x-ray tech programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Georgia healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? For many students, the school they decide on will need to be within driving distance of their Decatur GA home. Those who have decided to attend online classes obviously will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of concern. One thing to consider is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges normally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges frequently charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.
How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of person that likes to sit far in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will likely want a small class size. Small classes enable more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Decatur GA schools you are reviewing what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with several of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the radiology tech program also.
Does the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must confirm that the xray tech school you ultimately pick can provide the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you decide to continue working while you attend classes. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in the Decatur GA area, confirm that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would need to carry. Also, find out what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss due to work, illness or family obligations.
Affordable Online Radiologic Technologist Schools Decatur GA
Choosing the best radiology tech school is a critical first step toward starting a fulfilling new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical shape. Radiology techs frequently stand for the greater part of the day and move and at times lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Candidates must also demonstrate a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety guidelines developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having social skills is a necessity in order to have a good work environment and provide the best possible care to patients. You originally came to this website due to an interest in Affordable Online Radiologic Technologist Schools and wanting more information on the topic Low Cost Night X Ray Technician Courses. However, as we have covered in this report, there are several questions that you should ask each college you are considering prior to making your final decision. This is just as true whether you decide on an online school or travel to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each program so you can narrow down your options and make your decision. And with the proper training and your dedication to be successful, you can achieve your goal to practice as a radiology tech in Decatur GA.
Other Georgia Diagnostic Locations
Decatur, Georgia
Decatur is a city in, and the county seat of, DeKalb County, Georgia, which is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. With a population of 20,148 in the 2013 census,[3] the municipality is sometimes assumed to be larger since multiple ZIP Codes in unincorporated DeKalb County bear Decatur as the address. The city is served by three MARTA rail stations (Decatur, East Lake, and Avondale). The city is located approximately 5 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta and shares its western border with both the city of Atlanta (the Kirkwood neighborhood) and unincorporated DeKalb County. The Druid Hills neighborhood is to the northwest of Decatur.
Decatur was established at the intersection of two Native American trails: the Sandtown, which led east from the Chattahoochee River at Utoy Creek, and the Shallowford, which follows today's Clairmont Road, and eventually crossed near Roswell. It was named for United States Navy Commodore Stephen Decatur.
During the American Civil War, Decatur became a strategic site in Sherman's Atlanta Campaign. In July 1864, Major-General James McPherson occupied the town to cut off the Confederates' supply line from Augusta. On July 22, during the Battle of Atlanta, Confederate cavalry under Major-General Joseph Wheeler attacked McPherson's supply wagons and the Union troops left to defend the wagons. A historical marker at the old courthouse marks the site of this skirmish.
Business Results 1 - 10 of 38
25 Reviews 
18 Reviews 
1 Reviews 
7 Reviews 
1 Reviews 
3 Reviews 
10 Reviews 3 Reviews 5 Reviews 
16 Reviews 