Guide to Accelerated Radiology Technician Schools West Haven CT

How to Pick the Right Radiology Tech School near West Haven Connecticut

West Haven CT doctor examining x-raySo you have made the decision to enroll in an X-ray tech school near West Haven CT so you can train to be a radiology technician. But now that you have chosen to enter the gratifying field of healthcare, how do you go about picking the right college and program so that you will get the appropriate training to become a skilled practitioner? And since the majority of states do require that x-ray technicians become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you may require training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you assess each of the X-ray technician schools you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. A number of prospective students start by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and typically settle on the most affordable cost. But while cost and location should be considered, there are other important qualifiers also. For instance, you should find out if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These inquiries and others you should ask the X-ray Tech schools you are reviewing are presented later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray technician does and the degrees and training choices that are offered.

Radiology Tech Occupation Description in West Haven CT

West Haven CT radiologic technologist examining x-rayThere are multiple professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, they all have the same principal job description, which is to employ imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists might also provide radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Many elect to practice as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, for instance mammography. They may work in West Haven CT hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech may utilize include:

  • Traditional and specialized X-Rays
  • Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Sonography or ultrasound
  • Fluoroscopy

Radiographers must take care of their equipment plus regularly analyze its performance and safety. They are additionally expected to retain detailed records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As health practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

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Radiology Tech Degrees Offered near West Haven CT

West Haven CT x-ray tech school internship programThe basic requirement for enrolling in an x-ray tech college is to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among technicians, usually takes 18 months to two years to complete based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at as much as four years to complete and is more expansive in nature. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are other related majors that are appropriate as well. One thing to bear in mind is that radiographer schools have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can often be satisfied by taking part in an externship program which a large number of colleges sponsor through local hospitals and clinics in West Haven CT or their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing requirements in Connecticut or the state you will be working as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech college, based on the state where you will be employed you may need to be licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their criteria vary so check with your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but many provide other alternatives for testing also. A number of states also call for certification as a component of the licensing process, otherwise it is optional. However, numerous West Haven area employers favor hiring radiology techs that are certified so it could increase your career options in and around West Haven CT to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which can be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Technologist Programs

West Haven CT student attending online x-ray tech schoolAs a component of any degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree colleges. So even though you can still earn your degree online, a considerable amount of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an internship off campus. Clinical training is typically performed in West Haven CT family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online segment of the training can be attended in the comfort of your West Haven residence. Students who keep working while earning their degree often find that the online approach to learning is much more practical with their busy schedules. Plus online programs are frequently less costly than traditional options. In addition to lower tuition, expenditures for commuting and study materials may be lessened also. But just be sure that the online school you choose is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized style of training, then online classes may be the ideal choice for you.

What to Ask Radiographer Programs

When you have decided on the kind of degree that you want to earn, you can initiate the process of searching for and assessing x-ray technician colleges near West Haven CT. You will also have to determine if you prefer to attend online classes or commute to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be relevant. The price of tuition and secondary expenditures will be a determining variable as well. But along with location and cost, what else should you consider when evaluating colleges? Well, you need to check out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you uncover some of these essential details prior to making your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you need to ask the programs you are looking at.

Are the Radiology Technician Colleges Accredited? Most radiology technician colleges have acquired some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still important 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). Schools obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone an extensive review of their teachers and course materials. If the school is online it might also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. All accrediting organizations should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also help in obtaining financial assistance and student loans, which are often not offered for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And numerous West Haven CT employers will only hire graduates of an accredited school for entry level positions.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Ask if the xray tech schools you are assessing have relationships with regional clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only an excellent means to receive hands on training in a clinical environment, they are also a means to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can help students and graduates develop professional relationships in the West Haven CT medical community and assist with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in West Haven CT in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the x-ray tech programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Connecticut healthcare employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the Program Located? For a number of students, the school they select will have to be within travelling distance of their West Haven CT residence. Those who have decided to attend online classes naturally will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. One thing to consider is that if you decide to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might be required to pay a higher tuition. State colleges often charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges normally charge a higher tuition to those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the sort of student that likes to sit way in the rear of class or get lost in the crowd, you will probably want a small class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the West Haven CT colleges you are looking at what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate determination. This will also give you an opportunity to speak with some of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the xray tech program as well.

Does the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to confirm that the xray tech  program you ultimately pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially important if you opt to continue working while attending school. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in the West Haven CT area, make sure that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, find out if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would have to enroll in. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss because of illness, work or family emergencies.

Guide to Accelerated Radiology Technician Schools West Haven CT

x-ray machine in West Haven CT hospitalPicking the ideal x-ray technician school is a crucial first step toward initiating a fulfilling new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs frequently stand for the greater part of the workday and move and sometimes lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay close attention to detail and to observe the safety guidelines designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the radiologists and other doctors. Possessing social skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and provide the best possible patient care. You originally came to this website due to an interest in Guide to Accelerated Radiology Technician Schools and wanting more information on the topic X Ray Tech College. However, as we have addressed in this report, there are a number of questions that you should ask each program you are reviewing prior to making your ultimate selection. This is just as true whether you opt for an online school or travel to classes on campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each school so you can focus your choices before making your decision. And with the right training and your motivation to succeed, you can realize your goal to work as a radiology tech in West Haven CT.

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    West Haven, Connecticut

    Settled in 1648, West Haven (then known as West Farms) was a part of the original New Haven Colony. In 1719, it became the separate parish of West Haven, but was still officially a part of New Haven until 1822.

    During the American Revolution, West Haven was the frequent launch and arrival point for raiding parties on both sides of the war. On July 5, 1779, the British invaded New Haven Harbor and came ashore in West Haven and East Haven. Thomas Painter, a teenaged militiaman watching for the approaching British ships while standing atop Savin Rock, is depicted on the city seal. The main commercial street, Campbell Avenue, is named for British Adjutant William Campbell, at the time an ensign in the Third Guards, who rescued the Reverend Noah Williston, the local Congregational minister and outspoken revolutionary, from being bayoneted by British and Hessian troopers, after he broke his leg trying to escape his captors. Campbell then ordered the soldiers to help the minister back to the parsonage and had the regimental surgeon set his leg. Campbell is also credited with keeping the troops in reasonably good order during their march through the village and reportedly had two soldiers arrested after a local woman accused them of stealing her jewelry. Campbell was killed hours later atop Allingtown Hill on his way to New Haven by a local farmer-turned defender. Campbell is buried in the Allingtown section of town off Prudden Street. Patriot victims of the invasion are buried in the Christ Church and First Society Cemetery. A historical headstone marks Campbell's approximate gravesite and is maintained by the West Haven Historical Society.

    While West Haven again attempted to incorporate as its own town in 1784, that attempt failed, primarily due to the protests of neighboring Milford, which opposed North Milford becoming part of the new town. West Haven and North Milford tried again in 1786 and 1787 with the same result. The two finally joined to become Orange (incorporated as a town in 1822). In 1921, West Haven split from Orange to become a separate town. It was incorporated as a city in 1961 and is known as "Connecticut's Youngest City",[9] but it is ironically one of the state's oldest settlements.

     

     

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