Radiologic Technology Career Opportunities

When students have completed the basic requirements to become registered radiographers, they have a marketable skill in the ability to produce diagnostic images utilizing conventional x-ray technology, and many avenues for further education and advancement are opened.

Although most qualified technologists are employed as radiographers in hospitals, there is demand for personnel in many related imaging areas which commonly require radiography education as a prerequisite to entering these fields. Some examples of imaging technologies related to radiography include diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound), nuclear medicine technology, radiation therapy technology, computed tomography (CT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cardiovascular interventional technology.

In addition to related imaging technologies, technologists may combine further education with radiography expertise to qualify for positions as department managers and administrators or as faculty in radiologic technology programs. An exciting new career path opening the physician assistant level of practice to radiographers has been developed. The Radiologist Assistant is an experienced radiographer who has completed a bachelor's degree radiologist assistant program and learned advanced skills under the supervision of a radiologist. Industry employs radiologic technologists in medical service divisions and as industrial radiologic technologists. Manufacturers of imaging equipment and accessories utilize radiologic technologists as technical advisors, sales representatives, and application specialists. More information on these career areas may be obtained from the program faculty.

The demand for qualified radiologic technologists is projected to increase because of rapidly expanding health care facilities and increasing demand for radiologic services coupled with the proliferation of complex new technologies. Financial rewards for radiologic technologists are comparable to other Health Sciences professions. As the technologist becomes experienced, specializes in related areas, and obtains further formal education, the financial rewards increase.