Top Radiologic Technology Schools in Connecticut
Are you aiming to pursue radiologic technology in Connecticut? Immediate questions like which radiologic technology schools in Connecticut offer accredited programs, what the prospects of job placement are, and how programs prepare you for certification are undoubtedly on your mind. Within this article, uncover details on Connecticut’s top radiologic technology schools, compare program offerings from certificates to bachelor’s degrees, and gain essential information that aligns with your educational and professional ambitions.
Exploring Radiologic Technology Programs in Connecticut
Connecticut is home to eight colleges and universities offering accredited radiologic technology programs. These programs, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), offer a range of degree levels, including:
- Certificate
- Associate’s
- Bachelor’s
- Some even offer master’s or advanced degrees in radiologic science.
Each program provides unique learning experiences and opportunities for students.
Notable schools that offer diverse degree offerings in radiologic technology include:
- Capital Community College
- St. Vincent’s College
- Middlesex Community College
- University of Hartford
These schools offer one-year certificates, two-year associate’s degrees, and four-year bachelor’s degrees that equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field of radiologic technology.
University of Hartford
The University of Hartford offers an impressive Bachelor of Science degree in Radiologic Technology, with a curriculum designed to cover all aspects of the profession. This comprehensive program requires completion of 125 credits, including courses in:
- Biology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Professional radiography courses
Curriculum:
- Includes basic science, math, general education, and professional radiography core courses.
- Clinical rotations start in the second year at affiliated hospitals and private imaging offices, providing hands-on experience.
- The third year typically completes the radiography courses, with students becoming eligible to take the national examination offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
- The fourth year allows for specialization in CT, MRI, or sonography and prepares students for leadership roles.
Without UHart I would not have had the opportunity to go to the variety of clinical sites that I did. At the clinical sites I made a lot of connections that actually got me my initial job at Hartford Hospital as only a junior in college.
Christine Rogers, BS in Radiologic Technology, ’22
The radiography program encompasses a professional radiography credential, eligibility for advanced imaging credentials, and professional radiography core courses, making it a holistic educational journey for aspiring entry-level radiologic technologists.
Capital Community College
Capital Community College’s Radiologic Technology Program awards an Associate of Science degree, preparing students with the skills to work as competent radiologic technologists. The program aims to:
- Instill clinical competence
- Foster effective communication
- Develop critical thinking skills
- Facilitate professional growth
Students commence clinical rotations from the first semester, ensuring they get hands-on clinical education early in their education.
The program boasts a 73% completion rate, a 78% ARRT examination pass rate, and an impressive job placement rate of 97%, demonstrating the success of its comprehensive curriculum and rigorous training.
Middlesex Community College
Middlesex Community College stands out with its 22-month associate degree in radiologic technology, offering a fast-paced route to a career in this field. However, the program is not for the faint-hearted. The admission requirements include:
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7
- Completion of college Anatomy & Physiology I and II with labs achieving grades of B or higher within the last 5 years
- Eligibility for ENG 101 and MAT 177.
Prospective students must attend a program overview session and provide a resume highlighting customer service experience as part of the application process.
Gateway Community College
The Radiologic Technology program at GateWay Community College prepares students to become radiologic technologists, key players in the healthcare industry who assist in diagnosing diseases and injuries using medical imaging equipment like x-rays, MRI, and CT. The program is intensive, offering both rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical experiences. Topics include anatomy, physiology, patient care, equipment protocols, radiation safety, and more.
Certification and Accreditation:
- Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
- The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) and has received accreditation for eight years as of 2018.
- Passing the ARRT exam and obtaining licensure from the Arizona State Medical Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners (MRTBE) is necessary for employment in Arizona.
Becoming a Radiologic Technologist in Connecticut: Requirements and Licensure
Aspiring to be a radiologic technologist is one thing, but becoming one requires dedication and compliance with certain mandatory requirements. To work as a radiologic technologist in Connecticut, one must complete an accredited radiologic technology program, which may be a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree program. But the journey doesn’t end there.
Education and Accreditation
Acquiring the right education is the first step to becoming a radiologic technologist. This is where the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) comes in as the primary accrediting body for radiologic technology programs. Some accredited programs include:
- NVCC Radiologic Technology Program
- University of Hartford Radiologic Technology program
- Radiologic Technology Associate Degree Program at Capital Community College
These certificate programs are accredited by JRCERT, ensuring their quality and reliability.
JRCERT accreditation evaluates programs based on effectiveness data which includes students’ completion rate, credentials exam pass rate, and job placement rate. These metrics are critical indicators of the quality of education provided by these programs.
ARRT Certification Exam
The ARRT certification exam is a critical requirement for radiologic technologists practising in Connecticut. Graduates from the University of Hartford and Capital Community College’s radiologic technology programs are eligible to sit for this national certification examination, a testament to the program’s success.
State Licensure
Once you’ve completed the accredited educational program and passed the ARRT exam, the next step is to obtain state licensure. In Connecticut, the Department of Public Health is the authority responsible for offering state licensure to radiologic technology professionals. Each state, such as Connecticut, has its licensure board that sets the requirements for obtaining licensure. These boards are responsible for regulating and maintaining standards within their respective states.
Job Outlook and Salaries for Radiologic Technologists in Connecticut
Once you’ve completed your education and obtained the necessary licensure, the next consideration is employment. Let’s delve into the job outlook and salaries for radiologic technologists in Connecticut.
Employment Growth
The field of radiologic technology is not just rewarding; it’s also growing. The projected employment growth for radiologic technologists in Connecticut is expected to be 6 per cent between 2020 and 2030. This growth rate is promising, indicating an increasing demand for these professionals in the state.
The projected growth rate is likely due to the increasing need for imaging services, driven by the ageing population and advancements in imaging technology.
Average Annual Salary
When it comes to compensation, radiologic technologists in Connecticut earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for radiologic technologists in Connecticut as of 2022 was $76,180.6. This salary is a testament to the value and importance of the services provided by these professionals.
Radiologic technologists in Connecticut also earn an average hourly wage of $33.37. This wage, combined with the promising job outlook, makes a career in radiologic technology in Connecticut not only fulfilling but also financially rewarding.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Continuing education and professional development are vital for radiologic technologists. In Connecticut, licensed radiologic technologists must earn at least 24 continuing education (CE) credits every two years to remain compliant with state requirements. These credits must be relevant to the technologist’s area of practice and serve their professional development needs.
Renewing Certification and Licensure
Maintaining certification and licensure is a crucial aspect of a radiologic technologist’s career. In this regard, radiologic technologists must complete 24 continuing education credits every two years to renew their ARRT certification. Additionally, those certified after January 1, 2011, are required to go through the Continuing Qualifications Requirements (CQR) every decade as part of the ARRT certification renewal.
In Connecticut, radiologic technologists need to renew their state licenses every two years.
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations play a significant role in the career growth of radiologic technologists. The Connecticut Society of Radiologic Technologists (CSRT) provides the following benefits to its members:
- Crucial educational resources
- Networking opportunities
- Job listings
- Support for legislation
- Enhancement of patient care
- Upholding high standards of training for imaging professionals
Founded in 1938, the CSRT has been instrumental in allowing radiologic professionals to share ideas, network, and engage in continuous educational improvement. As a local affiliate of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), the CSRT represents radiographers within Connecticut, offering legislative representation and being a voice for the profession on a larger scale.
Summary
Becoming a radiologic technologist in Connecticut involves a comprehensive journey of education, certification, licensure, and continuous professional development. With a range of accredited programs, a growing job market, competitive salaries, and supportive professional organizations, Connecticut provides a fertile ground for aspiring radiologic technologists. It’s a journey filled with learning opportunities, hands-on experiences, and rewarding outcomes. So, are you ready to embark on this exciting journey and make a difference in the healthcare landscape?
Explore Radiologic Technology Training in Neighboring States to Connecticut
Situated in the New England region, Connecticut is surrounded by states offering excellent opportunities for radiologic technology training. From New York to Rhode Island and Massachusetts, these neighboring states provide diverse and accessible pathways to enhance your expertise and advance your career in medical imaging.
Highlighted States to Consider:
Explore state-specific guides to uncover training programs, certification requirements, and job opportunities tailored to radiologic technologists. These resources are designed to support your growth in this dynamic and rewarding healthcare field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there state scholarships available for radiologic technologist students in Connecticut?
Connecticut offers some scholarships through community colleges and healthcare foundations, specifically for students pursuing radiologic technology as part of state initiatives to strengthen the healthcare workforce.
What imaging responsibilities do radiologic technologists have in Connecticut’s cardiac care units?
In cardiac care units, radiologic technologists may handle specialized imaging, such as angiograms, working closely with cardiologists to assist in diagnosing heart-related conditions.