How to Pick the Best Radiology Technician Degree Program near Shelton Connecticut
So you have made the decision to enroll in an X-ray tech school near Shelton CT in order to become a radiology technologist. But now that you have chosen to enter the rewarding field of healthcare, exactly how do you go about selecting the ideal school and program to ensure that you will get the appropriate training to become a skilled professional? And since most states do require that x-ray technicians become licensed, based on where you ultimately practice you may require preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you investigate each of the X-ray technician schools you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. Many prospective students begin by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and usually gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while cost and location must be taken into account, there are additional important qualifiers also. For example, you should ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internship programs. These questions and others you must ask the X-ray Tech schools you are examining are presented later in this post. But first, let’s discuss what a radiology tech does and the credentials and training options that are offered.
Radiology Tech Work Summary in Shelton CT
There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, each has the identical major job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally view patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Some choose to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for example mammography. They can practice in Shelton CT hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician might work with 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 routinely evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to keep detailed records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.
Click Here For Free Information on X-Ray Tech Schools Near You!
Radiology Tech Degree Options near Shelton CT
The basic prerequisite for enrolling in a radiology tech school is to have received a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the choice to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, usually takes 18 months to 2 years to finish based upon the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at up to four years to complete and is more expansive in scope. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that are appropriate as well. Something to keep in mind is that radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can frequently be satisfied by participating in an externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in Shelton CT or their region. After you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Connecticut or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.
Radiologic Technologist Licensing and Certification
Once you have graduated from an x-ray technician school, based on the state where you will be practicing you may need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their prerequisites vary so get in touch with your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but several accept other options for testing also. A number of states also require certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is voluntary. However, numerous Shelton area employers would rather hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it may improve your career options in and around Shelton CT to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an accepted program in addition to a passing score on their comprehensive exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every 2 years, which can be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.
Online Radiology Technician Degrees
As a part of any degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree colleges. So although you can still earn your degree online, a significant amount of the training will be completed either in a college lab or in an internship off-campus. Clinical training is usually provided in Shelton CT hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. But the online portion of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Shelton residence. Students who continue working while earning their degree usually discover that the online approach to learning is much more practical with their hectic schedules. Plus online schools are often less costly than on-campus alternatives. Along with lower tuition, expenses for study materials and commuting can be lessened also. But just confirm that the online program you select is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online school may be the best choice for you.
Points to Ask Radiologic Tech Schools
After you have selected the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of finding and evaluating x-ray technician schools near Shelton CT. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend classes online or drive to a nearby campus. If you choose the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be relevant. The cost of tuition and secondary expenses will be an important variable as well. But along with location and cost, what else should you factor in when comparing schools? Well, you should find out if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you learn some of these crucial details before you make your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are looking at.
Are the Radiology Technician Programs Accredited? The majority of xray tech colleges have obtained some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. However, it’s still important to confirm that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly respected accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone an extensive evaluation of their teachers and educational materials. If the school is online it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to guaranteeing a premium education, accreditation will also help in securing financial aid and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And a number of Shelton CT employers will only hire graduates of an accredited program for entry level jobs.
Are Internships Provided? Inquire if the xray tech schools you are reviewing have relationships with local hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only a terrific means to obtain hands on training in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they can assist graduates and students develop professional relationships in the Shelton CT medical community and help with job placement.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in Shelton CT in a new field can be difficult without assistance. 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 a good sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Connecticut healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? For a number of students, the school they decide on will need to be within driving distance of their Shelton CT home. Students who have decided to attend online classes naturally 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 choose to enroll in a college that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges usually charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges usually charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.
How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of student that likes to sit way in the back of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably prefer a smaller class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Shelton CT colleges you are considering what the average student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you an opportunity to speak with some of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the radiology technician program as well.
Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer college you ultimately choose can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you decide to continue working while attending classes. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in the Shelton CT area, verify that they are offered. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an option and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, find out what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.
Compare Part Time Radiology Technician Schools Shelton CT
Picking the ideal radiology tech school is a critical first step toward beginning a satisfying new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiologic technologist must be in good physical condition. Radiology techs typically stand for the majority of the workday and move and at times lift the patient to obtain the correct image. Prospects must also show a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and deliver the best available care to patients. You originally came to this website due to an interest in Compare Part Time Radiology Technician Schools and wanting more information on the topic X Ray Tech School Online. However, as has been discussed in this post, there are several questions that you should ask each program you are reviewing prior to making your ultimate decision. This is just as true whether you opt for an online program or commute to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each college so you can focus your choices and make your decision. And with the proper education and your motivation to succeed, you can reach your goal to work as a radiographer in Shelton CT.
Other Connecticut Diagnostic Locations
Shelton, Connecticut
Shelton was settled by the English as part of the town of Stratford, Connecticut, in 1639. On May 15, 1656, the Court of the Colony of Connecticut in Hartford affirmed that the town of Stratford included all of the territory 12 miles (19 km) inland from Long Island Sound, between the Housatonic River and the Fairfield town line. In 1662, Stratford selectmen Lt. Joseph Judson, Captain Joseph Hawley and John Minor had secured all the written deeds of transfer from the Golden Hill Paugussett Indian Nation for this vast territory that comprises the present-day towns of Trumbull, Shelton and Monroe. Shelton was split off from Stratford in 1789, as Huntington (named for Samuel Huntington).[3][4] The current name originated in a manufacturing village started in the 1860s named for the Shelton Company founded by Edward N. Shelton—also founder of Ousatonic Water Power Company.[5][6][7][8] The rapidly growing borough of Shelton incorporated as a city in 1915 and was consolidated with the town of Huntington in 1919 establishing the present city of Shelton.[9][10]
Shelton was the site of one of the largest arson fires in the United States history. It happened in 1975 when the Sponge Rubber Products plant (formerly owned by B.F. Goodrich) was set on fire. Charles Moeller, president of parent company Grand Sheet Metal Products, was acquitted of criminal charges, but in a suit under civil law (where preponderance of evidence suffices to establish a factual claim), a jury found in 1988 the insurer was entitled to disallow claims on the fire losses, based on the finding that the company's top officials arranged the fire to claim insurance money. Eight others were convicted or pleaded guilty.[11]
The explosion that destroyed the Sponge Rubber Plant on Canal Street in 1975 marked the start of the decline of Shelton's industries. During the remainder of the 1970s and 1980s several firms that operated factories along the banks of the Housatonic River either went out of business or relocated to areas where labor and operating costs were cheaper.[12] In 1995, Sikorsky Aircraft closed a plant off Bridgeport Avenue that manufactured electrical components for helicopters.[citation needed]
Business Results 1 - 10 of 36
1 Reviews 
1 Reviews 
2 Reviews 
2 Reviews 
5 Reviews 
3 Reviews 
1 Reviews 
1 Reviews 1 Reviews 1 Reviews 