Top-Ranked Radiologic Technology Schools in Colorado for Aspiring Techs

Looking to launch or progress your career in radiologic technology? Your search for the right educational foundation begins here. Colorado is home to a selection of top-notch, accredited radiologic technology schools in Colorado, each offering unique strengths. We rank and dive into program durations, degree options, and the quality of clinical rotations, ensuring you choose a school not just for its name but for how it fits with your professional aspirations. Discover your path to becoming a qualified radiologist technologist in this comprehensive guide.

Choosing the Right Radiologic Technology Program in Colorado

The first step in your career journey is selecting a suitable radiologic technology program. This choice will lay the groundwork for your future as a radiologic technologist. Wondering how to pick the perfect program for you? Consider three critical factors: the program’s accreditation and certification, its length and degree options, and the opportunities it provides for clinical experience.

Accreditation and certification ensure that the education you receive meets industry standards. 

Accreditation and Certification

Accreditation acts as a stamp of approval on the quality of education provided by a radiologic technology program. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is the main accrediting body for these programs in the United States. Did you know? Earning accreditation from JRCERT ensures that a program meets minimum quality standards in academics, administration, and services. As a result, graduates become eligible for federal aid.

Once you graduate, it’s time to get certified. 

Program Length and Degree Options

The length of the radiologic technology program you choose determines how quickly you can get to work. In Colorado, radiologic technology programs typically lead to an Associate of Applied Science degree. These programs usually have a duration of approximately 22 months. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical internships, making it quite a comprehensive education package.

Clinical Experience Opportunities

Within radiologic technology education, clinical experience is not merely a perk; it’s an essential component. Think of it as a bridge that connects your classroom learning with real-world healthcare situations. It’s where you get to:

  • Apply your knowledge gained from classroom and lab work
  • Gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting
  • Work with patients and healthcare professionals
  • Develop your skills and confidence in performing radiologic procedures

Clinical experience is a valuable opportunity for practice patient safety students to enhance their extensive and varied education, and prepare for a career in radiologic technology.

Top Radiologic Technology Schools in Colorado

Armed with the knowledge of what to look for in a radiologic technology program, let’s explore some of Colorado’s top schools offering these programs. Regardless of whether you’re embarking on your journey in radiologic technology or seeking a program to further your career, these schools present a wealth of opportunities:

  1. University of Colorado Denver
  2. Colorado Mesa University
  3. Pueblo Community College
  4. Front Range Community College
  5. Arapahoe Community College

These schools offer comprehensive radiologic technology programs, including a well-rounded radiology program, that will prepare you for a successful career in the field.

Colorado Mesa University

Located in the heart of Grand Junction, Colorado Mesa University ranks highly among Colorado schools, especially for its Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) program. This program offers a unique blend of academic rigour and practical training that prepares students to excel in the radiologic technology field.

The BSRS program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), with an 8-year accreditation status.

Admission to the BSRS program is competitive, with eligibility criteria including completion of prerequisite classes and the Test for Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) for Allied Health. 

Community College of Denver

The Community College of Denver (CCD) boasts the oldest and most established Radiologic Technology Program in Colorado. The college offers an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Science, with options for certification in CT, MRI, or mammography upon graduation.

CCD’s Radiologic Technology Program offers the following benefits:

  • Accredited by JRCERT
  • Well-established and exceeds benchmarks for effectiveness
  • Graduates have high employment rates
  • High first-time ARRT credentialing exam pass rates
  • Clinical internships at leading Denver hospitals
  • Small class size (about 25 students admitted annually)
  • Transfer students accepted on a case-by-case basis

Pueblo Community College

Pueblo Community College (PCC) offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology and a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree Completion Program in Radiologic Technology, one of only two such programs in Colorado. These programs train students in using medical imaging equipment, providing patient care, and achieving clinical competency.

Degrees Offered:

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology: A 77-credit program that prepares students for entry-level positions in radiologic technology.
  • Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Radiologic Technology: A 120-credit degree completion program that includes education in MRI, CT, and leadership in medical imaging.

Program Length and Structure:

  • The AAS degree program is five semesters long and begins in the fall.
  • The BAS degree completion program is mostly online, with face-to-face clinical education for MRI and CT.

Red Rocks Community College

Perched in the beautiful city of Lakewood, Red Rocks Community College offers a 21-month Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology program. The program strikes a balance between classroom and clinical education, ensuring that students are well-rounded in their skill set.

Program Description:

  • The AAS in Radiologic Technology is a JRCERT-accredited degree program that prepares students for careers as Radiologic Technologists specializing in x-ray imaging.
  • The program is full-time, starts in the fall, and spans 21 months or five semesters. It includes a combination of on-campus instruction, online coursework, and clinical internships at medical facilities.

Program Structure:

  • The program consists of 77 credit hours, covering both prerequisite and in-program coursework. The curriculum includes online, hybrid, and in-person classes.
  • Students participate in clinical rotations throughout the program, which may involve shifts at different times, including nights and weekends.

Students may have to travel up to a 100-mile radius of the college for these rotations at partnered clinical affiliates. Due to its rigorous and fast-paced nature, and proper positioning skills, students are advised to limit outside employment to effectively manage coursework and clinical shift demands.

Career Pathways in Radiologic Technology

A career in radiologic technology is not a linear path; rather, it resembles a vast highway with many lanes and exits. From bone densitometry and interventional radiography to CT, MRI, and sonography, radiologic technologists have the opportunity to specialize in various subspecialties, including radiation therapy.

Colorado Licensing and Certification Requirements

In Colorado, becoming a registered radiologic technologist requires certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the Nuclear Medical Technology Certification Board (NMTCB). Once certified, technologists are known as Registered Technologists (R.T.) and must fulfil continuing requirements to maintain their registration.

There are also special registrations for Fluoroscopy Operators and Provisional Mammographers that require renewals every two years, and Bone Densitometry Operators’ registrations are valid for three years. 

Radiologic Technologist Salary and Job Outlook in Colorado

Radiologic technologists in Colorado can expect:

  • A competitive salary
  • The average salary for a Radiologic Technologist in Colorado was $79,781 per year
  • An additional annual amount of approximately $3,299.02 from bonuses and profit-sharing

In addition, the job outlook for radiologic technologists in Colorado is promising.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Radiologic Technology Students

While pursuing an education in radiologic technology might be financially demanding, a plethora of financial aid and scholarship opportunities can ease this burden. Students pursuing radiologic technology education in Colorado can explore various scholarship opportunities listed on platforms like Scholarships.com, which provides financial support for those in STEM fields.

Specific scholarships for radiologic sciences and related STEM fields can provide amounts ranging from $500 to $40,000, with various due dates throughout the year. These scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden of education and allow students to concentrate on their academic and career goals.

Summary

Radiologic technology is a rapidly growing field with a promising career outlook. Choosing the right academic program, focusing on accreditation, certification, and practical experience, and leveraging financial aid and scholarship opportunities are crucial steps towards a successful career. With top-notch radiologic technology schools, Colorado provides an ideal setting for aspiring radiologic technologists. So, gear up and embark on this rewarding journey today!

Explore Radiologic Technology Training in Neighboring States to Colorado

Nestled in the heart of the Mountain West region, Colorado is surrounded by states offering outstanding opportunities for radiologic technology training. From New Mexico and Oklahoma to Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, Kansas, and Nebraska, these neighboring states present a range of accessible options to advance your career in medical imaging.

Highlighted States to Consider:

Dive into state-specific guides to discover training programs, certification pathways, and job opportunities tailored to radiologic technologists. These resources are designed to help you succeed and grow in this vital healthcare profession.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary work environments for radiologic technologists in Colorado?

Radiologic technologists in Colorado work in various settings, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and diagnostic imaging facilities. Colorado’s major cities, like Denver, have the highest concentration of employment opportunities.

How does Colorado’s job market look for radiologic technologists?

Colorado’s growing healthcare industry and expanding population create demand for radiologic technologists. The job market is favorable, with new opportunities emerging in both urban and rural healthcare facilities.

What salary can a radiologic technologist expect in Colorado?

Colorado’s radiologic technologists earn average starting salaries around $55,000, with experienced professionals and those with specialized certifications potentially earning up to $80,000 annually, depending on their location and experience.