Top Radiologic Technology Schools in New Mexico

Are you seeking a top-notch education in radiologic technology right in the heart of New Mexico? Look no further. This article offers a focused look at accredited radiologic technology schools in New Mexico, detailing the programs that will prepare you for a dynamic career in this field. Get ready to discover the path that aligns with your career aspirations without wading through the unnecessary fluff.

Exploring Accredited Radiologic Technology Programs in New Mexico

When considering a career in radiologic technology, it’s crucial to choose an accredited program that delivers a robust curriculum and hands-on clinical experience. Accreditation ensures that the education you receive meets the high standards set by the profession and is recognized across the country. In New Mexico, three schools stand out for their JRCERT-accredited radiologic technology programs: Central New Mexico Community College, Doña Ana Community College, and the University of New Mexico.

Central New Mexico Community College

Located in the heart of Albuquerque, Central New Mexico Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology. This program includes:

18 months of study
Clinic-intensive program
Comprehensive understanding of radiologic technology
Blending classroom learning with practical experience

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including biomedical ethics, radiographic imaging, patient care, and radiologic technology capstone, alongside studies in radiographic procedures, pathology, radiation physics, and protection. The program’s strength lies in its diverse clinical rotations, which expose students to a variety of settings, including urgent care, specialized imaging centres, and comprehensive cancer centres.

Doña Ana Community College

Doña Ana Community College offers a competitive, limited-entry Associate of Science degree in Radiologic Technology, fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). This program focuses on providing a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom learning with clinical experience, preparing students for a rewarding career in radiologic technology.

Certification and Accreditation: Graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam. The program’s current accreditation from JRCERT is for eight years, indicating a strong standard of educational quality.

Advanced Certificate Program in Computed Tomography (CT): This program is available for ARRT-licensed radiographers or second-year radiography students at DACC. It provides specialized training in CT, leading to eligibility for the ARRT National Computed Tomography Certification Exam.

Program Length and Requirements:

The Associate degree program spans five semesters (21 months).
Prerequisite courses include English, College Algebra, Psychology or Sociology, Anatomy & Physiology, and Chemistry, all requiring a grade of C- or above.

University of New Mexico

The University of New Mexico (UNM) offers a unique approach to radiologic sciences education with its traditional Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS), focusing on Nuclear Medicine. This program includes a full-time, two-year curriculum that combines classroom and clinical training, along with 30 hours of residency coursework.

Programs Offered:

BSRS in Medical Imaging: This degree completion program is for students who have completed or are completing an entry-level medical imaging program such as x-ray, ultrasound, or radiation therapy at an outside institution.
BSRS in Nuclear Medicine: Designed for UNM undergraduates to complete as a traditional bachelor’s degree.
CT and MRI Technologist Certificates: These programs provide specialized training and certification for technologists seeking to advance in these specific imaging modalities.
Structured Education Requirements Certificate (SERS): Focused on CT and MRI, this program meets the structured education requirements needed for certification.

Accreditation and Recognition: The program follows nationally recognized curriculum standards and is known for its rigorous academic and clinical training. UNM is recognized for its excellence in health professions education.

Making the Grade: Academic Requirements for Prospective Students

Radiologic technology programs have specific academic requirements that prospective students must meet to be considered for admission. These prerequisites ensure students have the essential foundational knowledge to succeed in the rigorous study of radiologic technology.

Prospective students must have a minimum cumulative college GPA of 2.0, although some programs may require a higher GPA. A high school diploma or GED is also necessary. Prerequisite courses include English composition, college chemistry with a lab, Intermediate Algebra or equivalent, and Medical Terminology, with a minimum grade of ‘C’ or higher.

The Path to Certification: Licensure and Exams

Upon graduating from an accredited radiologic technology program, students are eligible to take the national certification exams administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB). These exams assess the knowledge and skills of radiologic technologists and are a key step towards professional certification.

Career Outlook for Radiologic Technologists in New Mexico

The career outlook for radiologic technologists in New Mexico is bright, with competitive salaries and a growing job market. On average, radiologic technologists in New Mexico earn an annual wage of $60,920, reflecting the high demand for their skills in the healthcare market.

The job market for radiologic technologists in New Mexico is expected to grow by 6 per cent by the year 2031, offering ongoing opportunities for professionals entering the field.

Specialized Study Areas within Radiologic Sciences

Radiologic Sciences offer specialized educational opportunities, allowing students to gain advanced certification in focused modalities such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and radiation therapy. These specializations provide technologists with the opportunity to expand their skills and open up new career paths.

Institutions like Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell and the University of New Mexico offer programs in these areas. ENMU-Roswell offers a certificate of completion in Computed Tomography (CT) for registered technologists and an Advanced Certificate Program in CT for ARRT licensed radiographers or 2nd-year x-ray students.

Nurturing Professional Growth: Resources and Organizations

Professional growth and continuous learning are paramount in the rapidly evolving field of radiologic technology. Organizations like the New Mexico Society of Radiologic Technologists play a crucial role in supporting radiographers and advancing the field of radiology in New Mexico.

The society provides resources and encouragement for radiography professionals seeking to advance their education, offering support in areas like:

Continuing education
Professional development
Certification and licensure
Research and publications

By leveraging these resources, radiologic technologists, including any aspiring radiologic technologist, can stay up-to-date with the latest developments in their field and continue to deliver high-quality patient care.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Radiology Students

The pursuit of a radiologic technology education is a significant investment, both in time and finances. To help students manage these costs, several financial aid and scholarships are available to radiology students. The ASRT Foundation, for instance, provides over 70 scholarships for students in various radiologic science disciplines.

In addition to the ASRT Foundation, state affiliates and professional societies offer their scholarships to support the educational and professional aspirations of radiologic technology students.

Summary

We’ve embarked on an extensive exploration of radiologic technology education in New Mexico, diving into the top programs, academic requirements, certification paths, and career prospects. It’s clear that choosing an accredited program, such as those offered at Central New Mexico Community College, Doña Ana Community College, and the University of New Mexico, is a critical first step towards a successful career in this field.

Explore Radiologic Technology Training in Neighboring States to New Mexico

Situated in the Southwestern region of the United States, New Mexico is surrounded by states offering excellent opportunities for radiologic technology training. From Oklahoma and Texas to Utah, Arizona, and Colorado, these neighboring states provide accessible and diverse pathways to advance your career in medical imaging.

Highlighted States to Consider:

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there opportunities for radiologic technologists to work in tribal healthcare facilities in New Mexico?

Yes, New Mexico’s tribal health centers employ technologists, often providing essential imaging services to Native American communities across the state.

How does New Mexico support bilingual radiologic technologists?

Bilingual skills are highly valued in New Mexico, where many facilities offer additional training to help technologists communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients.