Back in 1895, German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen invented X-ray technology by a mistake. Now, over 100 years later, you can use his accident to your career advantage by enrolling at an X-ray program school. An X-ray program technician, or radiographer, produces X-ray films of parts of the body and administers nonradioactive materials into the bloodstream for diagnostic purposes. The X-ray program technician is also responsible for preparing patients and their records, and adjusting, maintaining, and operating equipment. Within the field, X-ray program technicians may specialize in complex diagnostic imaging technologies, such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
CT technologists operate CT scanners to produce cross-sectional images of patients while MRI technologists operate machines that use strong magnets and radio waves, rather than radiation, to create an image. Formal X-ray program technician training ranges from one to four years and leads to a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree. Upon graduation from an accredited X-ray program, you may take a certification exam offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. In 2005, 38 states certified X-ray technicians. To be recertified, or registered, you must complete 24 hours of continuous education every two years.
Those with X-ray program technician training held about 182,000 jobs in 2004, more than half of which were in hospitals. And employment is expected to grow faster than the average for any occupation through 2014, as the population grows and ages, increasing the demand for diagnostic imaging. Median annual earnings of graduates of X-ray program schools were $43,350 in May 2004, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $60,210. Those who are experienced in more complex diagnostic imaging procedures, such as CT and MRI, will have even better employment opportunities. Get a glimpse of your future by enrolling in an X-ray program today. |
