Community College of Rhode Island

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Radiography

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a radiographer?
    • A radiographer is a person who uses x-radiation, a knowledge of anatomy, and imaging principles to aid physicians in the diagnosis of disease, in monitoring patient progress, in controlled screenings for early detection, or in research.
  • How can I become a radiographer?
    • The education required for a radiographer is specified and approved by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL, 60606, phone 312-704-5300). After completing the prerequisite coursework, it is a two-year program (six semesters) that incorporates college classes with clinical practice.  The Community College of Rhode Island offers a fully-accredited program in Radiography. Graduates earn an Associate Degree in Applied Science.
  • What credentials are necessary to work as a radiographer?
    • The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credentials radiographers - www.arrt.org. Candidates applying for certification must successfully complete an accredited program in Radiography and hold a minimum of an associate degree. A state license is required to work as a radiographer in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
  • Where do radiographers work?
    • Radiographers work in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, and private emergency rooms. Radiographers work all shifts, part-time or full-time.  Flexible hours are often available.
  • What are radiographers' salaries like?
    • Starting salaries at the present time average $22.00 to $24.00 per hour for a new graduate, or approximately $46,000 - $50,000 per year. Hospital benefit packages are excellent and include health care, dental coverage, insurance, vacation and sick time. Private facilities may vary somewhat in the benefits they offer.
  • Are there advancement opportunities in this field?
    • There are numerous opportunities for advancement.  Areas include computed tomography (CT), mammography and angiography.  With one year of additional education there are opportunities in medical ultrasonography (computer assisted imaging with sound waves), nuclear medicine, computer assisted imaging using radioisotopes, radiation therapy (treatment of disease with radiation) and magnetic resonance imaging (computer assisted imaging using magnets and radiowaves).
  • What is the outlook for jobs in the future?
    • According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, job opportunities in the field will continue into the twenty-first century.
  • What should an interested student do to prepare for entry into a radiography program?
    • Have a good background in math and science, including two years of high school math (algebra, geometry) and two years of high school science (biology, anatomy, chemistry or physics). Develop good reading and communication skills. Take courses required for admission; take the placement exams in math and English as early as possible. Graduates of other educational programs may be able to transfer general education courses.
  • Is the radiation a health hazard for those who work as radiographers?
    • The answer is yes. Radiation is a health hazard to everyone. A large part of the educational process is devoted to preparing students to work with radiation in a safe manner. If safety procedures are carefully observed, there is virtually no threat to the health or well-being of a radiographer
  • Whom may I contact for more information?
    •  Contact Admissions Officer Rob Giovino or Program Director Sharon Perkins
      Rob Giovino
      Office of Enrollment Services
      Knight Campus
      Community College of Rhode Island
      400 East Avenue
      Warwick, RI 02886
      Tel: (401) 825-2288
      Sharon Perkins
      Allied Health Department
      Flanagan Campus
      Community College of Rhode Island
      1762 Louisquisset Pike
      Lincoln, RI 02865
      Tel: (401) 333-7144
      Admissions procedures and specific program admissions guidelines for Health Science students can be found on the Office of Enrollment Services website at www.ccri.edu/oes

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Last Updated: 9/10/12