Top Radiologic Technology Schools in Massachusetts

Navigating through the numerous radiologic technology schools in Massachusetts to find the right fit for your career can be daunting. Our overview cuts through the noise, detailing accredited programs, from associate to bachelor’s degrees, and what they offer for your future in medical imaging.

Top Radiologic Technology Programs in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, aspiring radiologic technologists have a range of educational opportunities, from radiologic technology associate degrees to Bachelor of Science programs. Each of these programs has unique strengths and offerings, with critical factors such as national accreditation status, and the pass rate of graduates on credentialing exams guiding the choice.

Let’s dive deeper into some of the top programs and their program faculty.

Bunker Hill Community College

The Medical Radiography Program at BHCC offers both full-time (21 months) and part-time (35 months) options, designed to prepare students to become competent radiologic technologists. The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).. What makes this program stand out is:

• Their mission is to produce competent radiologic technologists
• Their learning environment focused on community engagement
• Their emphasis on multicultural interaction
• Their strong faculty-student relationships

Imagine yourself at BHCC, learning from dedicated faculty and contributing to a diverse, vibrant healthcare community.

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

• The Bachelor of Science in Radiography (BS) Accelerated program at MCPHS (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences) is designed to prepare students to become skilled radiologic technologists. The program focuses on using ionizing radiation to create two-dimensional X-rays for diagnosing diseases. It is an intensive, year-round program that takes 32 consecutive months to complete on the Boston campus.

Curriculum and Structure:

• The program is divided into three phases:
  • First-Year Experience: Focus on foundational courses in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and radiographic principles, including patient care and medical terminology.
  • Second-Year Experience: In-depth study of radiographic procedures, healthcare ethics, and interpersonal communication, alongside internships.
  • Third-Year Experience: Advanced training in radiographic procedures, radiation protection, and problem-solving, with additional internships.
• Students participate in clinical rotations in prestigious Boston-area medical facilities.

Clinical Training:

• Hands-on training begins in the first semesters, where students use state-of-the-art technology under the guidance of expert faculty. The program emphasizes mastering the technologies essential for accurate diagnosis.

Certification and Outcomes:

• Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam, qualifying them to work as radiologic technologists.

Licensing Requirements for Radiologic Technologists in Massachusetts

After completing a radiologic technology program, graduates must navigate the licensing process. In Massachusetts, radiographers must hold a Radiologic Technologist license issued by the Massachusetts Radiation Control Program. This licensure process includes passing an examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or an equivalent examination recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

Once licensed, radiologic technologists are required to continue their education, obtaining a minimum of 24 continuing education units (CEUs) during their two-year licensing cycle, with specific requirements depending on their disciplines and areas such as radiation safety.

Education and Accreditation

The road to licensure begins with a quality education, and that’s where JRCERT accreditation comes in. To practice as a radiologic technologist in Massachusetts, individuals are required to complete a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). This accreditation signifies a standard of excellence for educational training in radiologic technology.

Graduates of such accredited programs, like the one at Springfield Technical Community College, are well-prepared for the ARRT certification exam, a crucial step towards professional practice.

Examination and Certification

The next step after education is certification. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) sets the education, ethics, and examination requirements for certification in radiologic technology. After completing an ARRT-approved educational program, graduates are qualified to take the ARRT certification exam in radiography.

This exam evaluates candidates’ understanding and ability to perform entry-level radiographic procedures, with successful candidates receiving the R.T. (R) credential.

Job Outlook and Salary Information for Radiologic Technologists in Massachusetts

Once you’ve obtained your education and licensure, the world of radiologic technology opens up with promising job prospects and attractive salary packages. In Massachusetts, the projected growth rate for radiologic technologist employment through 2030 is quite promising at 6 per cent.

On the salary front, radiologic technologists in the state are among the highest paid in the United States, with an annual mean wage of $85,800.

Statewide Projections

Statewide projections for the field of radiologic technology in Massachusetts indicate healthy growth. This growth trend suggests that aspiring radiologic technologists can look forward to a robust job market in the coming years.

A 6 percent growth rate through 2030 is indeed a promising outlook for those planning to embark on this career path.

Salary by Metro Area

In terms of salary, the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH metropolitan area leads with an average annual wage of $86,100 for radiologic technologists. However, attractive salary packages are not limited to this area. For instance, radiologic technologists in Worcester, MA can expect an average salary of $70,201, with a typical range between $63,901 and $77,401. These wages reflect the high demand and value placed on skilled radiologic technologists in the state.

Clinical Rotations and Hands-on Experience

One of the key aspects of any radiologic technology program is the opportunity for clinical rotations and hands-on experience. Programs such as those offered by MCPHS University incorporate extensive laboratory classes that simulate real-world situations, providing critical hands-on experience.

These experiences, combined with supervised field experience, allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, preparing them for their professional roles in medical imaging.

Clinical Site Selection

The selection of clinical sites for rotations is a thoughtful process, considering the need for students to experience a variety of imaging modalities and patient demographics. Also, the locations chosen are usually within a reasonable distance from the campus to ensure accessibility for students. Notably, students have the opportunity to complete rotations at prestigious institutions like the Massachusetts General Hospital, under the guidance of experienced clinical instructors.

Skills Development

During clinical rotations, students not only observe professionals in action but also get a chance to develop their skills and competencies. They learn how to:

• Prepare and correctly position patients to achieve the best imaging results while ensuring the patients’ comfort
• Practice radiation protection to keep both themselves and the patients safe
• Provide patient care and support during imaging procedures
• Think critically and make decisions based on the imaging results and patient history

Developing critical thinking skills and positioning skills is essential for a successful career in medical imaging, as these skills enable professionals to analyze and interpret complex data with precision, including the ability to evaluate diagnostic images and other imaging modalities effectively.

Continuing Education and Career Advancement Opportunities

Even after obtaining their licensure, radiologic technologists have numerous opportunities for continuing education and career advancement. The Massachusetts Society of Radiologic Technologists, for instance, provides resources for continuing education and hosts an annual conference to facilitate ongoing learning and professional development.

Specialization and Certification

Beyond the basic radiography certification, radiologic technologists can pursue additional certifications in specialized areas including:

• Nuclear medicine
• Radiation therapy
• Mammography
• Computed tomography (CT)
• Radiologist assistant
• Positron emission tomography (PET)

These advanced certifications, offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), can open up new avenues and possibilities for career growth.

Application Process and Admission Requirements

Before you can embark on your journey to become a radiologic technologist, you need to navigate the application process and meet the admission requirements. These typically include:

• Prerequisites like high school courses in biology and chemistry or equivalent college-level courses
• Anatomy and physiology courses are often required prerequisites
• The admission process is competitive, requiring a minimum cumulative GPA, commonly around 2.5 or higher
• Depending on faculty and clinical space availability

Prerequisites 

Prerequisite courses for medical programs often include:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Medical terminology
• Math
• Physics

Additional prerequisites may include college-level math, English, and computer literacy. Application deadlines commonly fall in spring, around March or April, for programs beginning in the fall semester. However, deadlines can vary, and some institutions recommend early application due to space constraints.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

While the journey to becoming a radiologic technologist is rewarding, it can also be financially challenging. Fortunately, there are numerous financial aid and scholarship opportunities available for students.

The Massachusetts Society of Radiologic Technologists (MSRT) offers annual scholarships to students and technologists in Radiography, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiation Therapy.

Summary

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the exciting career of a radiologic technologist, delved into the top educational programs in Massachusetts, discussed licensing requirements, and examined the promising job outlook and attractive salary packages. We’ve also highlighted the importance of clinical rotations and hands-on experience, explored continuing education and career advancement opportunities, and outlined the application process and financial aid options. 

Explore Radiologic Technology Training in Neighboring States to Massachusetts

Situated in the New England region, Massachusetts is bordered by states offering excellent opportunities for radiologic technology training. From New York and Rhode Island to Vermont, Connecticut, and New Hampshire, these neighboring states provide diverse and accessible pathways to build a successful career in medical imaging.

Highlighted States to Consider:

• New York
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Connecticut
• New Hampshire

Explore state-specific guides to uncover training programs, certification requirements, and job opportunities tailored to radiologic technologists. These resources are designed to help you thrive in this essential and rewarding healthcare field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do radiologic technologists in Massachusetts participate in academic research?

Massachusetts has academic medical centers that employ technologists in research roles, assisting with clinical studies and new imaging technology development, particularly in Boston.

What are the major employers of radiologic technologists in Boston?

Hospitals like Massachusetts General and Brigham and Women’s are major employers, offering extensive opportunities across imaging modalities and advanced technology.

What are the common specializations among technologists in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, technologists often specialize in MRI, CT, and nuclear medicine, with access to advanced training at renowned medical institutions throughout the state.

Radiologic technologist programs in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has more than 160 hospitals and imaging centers, which means steady demand for trained radiologic technologists across the state. If you are thinking about this career, you are looking at a field that combines hands-on patient care with technical imaging work. This page walks you through what the job involves, what training looks like, and how to get started.

What a radiologic technologist does

A radiologic technologist, sometimes called a rad tech, takes medical images of patients. These images help doctors diagnose injuries, diseases, and other conditions. You position patients, operate imaging equipment, and make sure images are clear enough for a physician to read.

Most rad techs start in general radiography, which means X-rays. From there, you can specialize in other imaging areas such as computed tomography (CT scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or mammography. Each specialty requires additional training beyond your initial degree.

The work is physical. You help move patients who may be in pain. You stand for long shifts. You also follow strict safety rules to limit radiation exposure for yourself and your patients. Detail matters in this job. A blurry image or an incorrect patient position can delay a diagnosis.

Where rad techs work in Massachusetts

Most rad techs in Massachusetts work in hospitals. Others work in outpatient imaging centers, physicians’ offices, urgent care clinics, and mobile imaging units. Boston is the largest job market in the state, with major academic medical centers that hire across multiple imaging specialties. Smaller markets like Springfield, Worcester, and New Bedford also have regular openings, especially in outpatient settings.

Education requirements for this career

To work as a radiologic technologist in Massachusetts, you need at minimum an associate degree from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, known as JRCERT. JRCERT is the national body that reviews and approves radiologic technology programs to make sure they meet professional standards.

An associate degree typically takes two years of full-time study. Some programs are designed for students coming straight from high school. Others prefer applicants who have completed prerequisite courses in anatomy, biology, or math first. A bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology is also available and can open doors to supervisory roles or specialty advancement more quickly.

What you study in a rad tech program

Your coursework will cover radiation physics, which explains how X-rays are produced and how they interact with the body. You will also study radiographic positioning, which is the skill of placing patients and equipment correctly for each type of image. Patient care, medical terminology, and image evaluation are also part of the curriculum.

A large portion of your training happens in clinical settings. You will work in a real hospital or imaging department, supervised by a registered technologist. These clinical hours count toward the requirements to sit for your certification exam after graduation.

Certification and licensing

After completing a JRCERT-accredited program, you take the certification exam given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, known as the ARRT. Passing this exam makes you a registered technologist, which lets you use the credential RT(R) after your name.

Massachusetts requires radiologic technologists to hold a state license issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. To get that license, you must already hold ARRT registration or meet an equivalent standard. You renew the license every two years and complete continuing education to keep it current.

Specialty credentials

Once you have your general radiography credential, you can add specialty credentials through the ARRT. Common specialties include CT, MRI, mammography, cardiovascular-interventional technology, and bone densitometry. Each specialty has its own exam and clinical requirements. Holding a specialty credential typically raises your earning potential and expands the jobs available to you.

Career path and advancement

Most people start as staff technologists working under supervision. After a few years of experience, you can move into senior technologist roles, lead tech positions, or department supervisor jobs. Some rad techs move into education, training new students in clinical settings. Others move into radiology administration or health care management.

Picking up a specialty early in your career is one of the fastest ways to advance. CT and MRI specialists are in high demand at large imaging centers throughout Massachusetts. Travel radiologic technologist positions are also available for those willing to take short-term contracts at hospitals across the country, often at higher pay rates.

How to choose a program

When you compare programs, look at four things first: JRCERT accreditation status, clinical site locations, ARRT first-attempt pass rates, and program length. A program that lacks JRCERT accreditation will not qualify you to sit for the ARRT exam, so that check comes before anything else.

Clinical site locations matter because you will travel to those sites regularly throughout your training. If a program’s clinical partners are far from where you live, that adds cost and time. Ask each program how clinical assignments are made and whether you have any say in placement.

Questions to ask before you apply

Here are specific questions worth raising with any admissions advisor:

• Is your program currently accredited by JRCERT?
• What is the first-attempt ARRT pass rate for recent graduates?
• How many clinical hours are required, and at which facilities?
• Is the schedule full-time, part-time, or evening-friendly?
• What financial aid is available, and does the program accept GI Bill benefits?
• What is the typical time from application to program start?

Programs vary in how competitive admissions are. Some use a point system based on prerequisite grades and testing. Others admit on a rolling basis. Knowing the timeline helps you plan. If a program has a January and September start, you may be able to begin sooner than you expect.

Financial aid and cost

Radiologic technology programs in Massachusetts are available at community colleges and hospital-based schools. Community college programs generally carry lower tuition than hospital-based or private programs, though hospital programs sometimes include clinical stipends or tuition reimbursement through affiliated employers.

Federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and subsidized loans, is available at accredited colleges. You apply through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Some Massachusetts community colleges also have workforce training grants that reduce tuition for in-demand health care programs. Ask the financial aid office at each school specifically about health care program grants, because these are often separate from general institutional aid.

If you already work at a hospital or health system, check whether your employer has a tuition assistance program. Many large Massachusetts health systems pay for employees to complete imaging training in exchange for a service commitment after graduation.

What to expect after graduation

Graduates from JRCERT-accredited programs in Massachusetts typically sit for the ARRT exam within a few months of finishing their clinical hours. The exam has multiple sections, including patient care, safety, and image production. Preparation courses and practice exams are widely available and worth using.

Once you pass and hold your Massachusetts license, you can apply for staff positions. Job boards used widely in this field include the ARRT career center, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) job board, and major hospital career sites. Many graduates in Massachusetts also find positions through clinical sites where they completed their training, since those relationships carry weight with hiring managers.

If you want to move into leadership, a bachelor’s degree completion program can help. Several schools offer online or hybrid bachelor’s programs specifically for working rad techs. These programs are designed to fit around a full-time clinical schedule and usually take 12 to 24 months to finish.

Next steps

If this career fits what you are looking for, the right first step is to identify JRCERT-accredited programs in Massachusetts and request information from two or three of them. Compare their clinical partnerships, schedules, and costs side by side. Talk to an admissions advisor and ask the questions listed above. The more specific your questions, the more useful the answers will be.

Use the program listings on this page to start your search and contact the schools that match your location and schedule. Getting into a program is a process, and starting it now means you could be working as a registered technologist within two to three years.