Radiology
Application for Radiology only. Not required for CT / MRI
This program is designed to prepare students for careers in Radiologic Technology. The curriculum includes instruction in the operation of radiographic equipment, the study of human anatomy and clinical experience.
ABOUT OUR PROGRAM AND THE PROFESSION
OUR PROGRAM
The Associate in Applied Science Degree program is 21 months in length and can be entered only during the fall semester. Space is limited and the program is competitive, so register early. Admission requirements for Radiologic Technology are available in the official RLC Catalog. Students officially accepted into the program will be required to acquire Hepatitis B immunizations, a TB test, CPR certification and health physical at their own expense.
Students pursuing studies in Radiologic Technology may find they are unable to hold a job while in school due to the highly structured scheduling necessary for directed practice at clinical sites. Some RAD clinical rotations include attendance on weekends ... a 3-11 p.m. shift, and an 11 p.m.- 7 a.m. shift.
Upon completion of the program, students will take the national certification examination. Students who have been convicted of a felony charge may not be eligible to apply for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification examination. If there is a concern, the student may have the ARRT Ethics Committee evaluate a pre-application.
For those who hold an AAS Degree in Radiologic Technology and are ARRT registered, an online occupational certificate in Computed Tomography is available. The certificate consists of four classes.
ABOUT THE PROFESSION
The registered radiologic technologist plays an important role on the medical team by providing quality radiographs for a physician or radiologist (a physician who has specialized in interpretation of diagnostic radiographic images). As a professional assistant, the radiologic technologist functions to aid in the diagnosis of various abnormalities including fractures, tumors, and malfunctioning body systems.
Responsibilities of the radiologic technologist include adjusting radiographic equipment for specific examinations, placing the patient into the correct position, making the required exposure, and processing the images. In some cases mobile radiographic equipment must be used in the emergency room, in surgery, or at the patient’s bedside. Responsibilities may also include performing quality assurance procedures, record keeping, ordering supplies, and maintaining equipment.
The major responsibility of the radiologic technologist, however, is compassionate care of the patient. In a profession driven by technical advances, caring for the needs of the patient remains the primary objective. Compassionate care includes proficiency in communication, respecting individual rights, and maintaining safety.
The radiologic technologist receives the social prestige that accompanies a professional career. As part of the medical team professional colleagues might include nurses, lab technicians, physicians, therapists, and other scientific people dedicated to the medical profession. The knowledge and skills of a radiologic technologist serve an integral part of the medical community in the treatment and well being of the patient.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
A profession in radiology provides a variety of career opportunities. The registered technologist (RT) is qualified to work in a hospital, a doctor’s office, a public health facility, a veteran or military hospital, or an industrial medical clinic. Radiologic technology is a dynamic field with more technological advances expected in the future. This field affords many opportunities for professional growth. An Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology serves as a stepping stone for advancement into magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT), nuclear medicine (NM), mammography (M), cardiovascular interventional technology (CIT), ultrasound imaging (US), angiography and interventional procedures, radiation oncology, and the field of education.
DAY & EVENING PROGRAM OPTIONS
Program Structure (Day Track)
The 21- month (69.5 credit hours) continuous Radiologic Technology degree program provides didactic and clinical education for potential Radiographers. Clinical experience occurs at clinical facilities in the local area. Program participants can expect substantial off-campus student and preparation for classroom lecture and lab exercises. Students will attend class and clinical during day hours with the exception of assigned evening and weekend rotations which vary upon semester. Upon completion of this program, graduates will obtain an Associate in Applied Science Degree and will be eligible to sit for the national ARRT examination.Please Note:
- Under no circumstances will a student be allowed to change from the day track to evening track or vice-versa.
- Students should be aware that clinical start times vary among clinical sites.
- Students who have been convicted of a felony charge may not be eligible to apply for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification examination. If there is a concern, the student may have the ARRT Ethics Committee evaluate a pre-application.
- Students officially accepted into the program will be required to acquire Hepatitis B immunizations, a TB test, CPR certification and health physical at their own expense.
Program Structure (Evening Track)
The 21- month (69.5 credit hours) continuous Radiologic Technology degree program provides didactic and clinical education for potential Radiographers. Clinical experience occurs at clinical facilities in the local area. Program participants can expect substantial off-campus student and preparation for classroom lecture and lab exercises. Students will attend class and clinical during weekday evening hours with the exception of assigned day rotations and weekend rotation which vary upon semester. Upon completion of this program, graduates will obtain an Associate in Applied Science Degree and will be eligible to sit for the national ARRT examination.Please Note:
- Under no circumstances will a student be allowed to change from the day track to evening track or vice-versa.
- Students should be aware that clinical start times vary among clinical sites.
- Students who have been convicted of a felony charge may not be eligible to apply for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification examination. If there is a concern, the student may have the ARRT Ethics Committee evaluate a pre-application.
- Students officially accepted into the program will be required to acquire Hepatitis B immunizations, a TB test, CPR certification and health physical at their own expense.
Degrees & Certificates in Radiology Technology
RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY - Degree
Associate in Applied Science Degree
This program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in Radiologic Technology. The curriculum includes instruction in the operation of radiographic equipment, study of human anatomy and clinical experience. All curriculum courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better. A criminal history background check is required. To continue in the Radiologic Technology program, all RAD courses must be taken in the order outlined in the curriculum.
► Total = 69.5 Hours
Summer Term (0.5 Cr. Hrs.)
- RAD 1200 Radiologic Technology Orientation 0.5
1 Prerequisite course(s) may be required based test scores.
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY - Certificate
Gainful Employment Information
This program is designed to help equip a radiologic technologist with the knowledge, skills, and competence necessary to perform CT examinations in the workplace. This program includes topics on CT physics, CT applications, CT clinical training and cross-sectional anatomy. The program also is designed to assist the student in preparing for the ARRT's CT registry exam. All curriculum courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better. ? Total = 16 Hours
Prerequisites: Successful completion of AAS in Radiologic Technology or must be ARRT registered.
MRI - Certificate
Gainful Employment Information
The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate prepares radiographers to work in medical facilities as MRI technologists. Graduates of the program are equipped with the appropriate knowledge to take the national MRI certification examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. All curriculum courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better.
► Total = 16 Hours
Prerequisites: Successful completion of AAS in Radiologic Technology or must be ARRT registered.
Program Outcomes
Radiologic Technology- Apply positioning skills.
- Communicate effectively with health care staff and patients.
- Manipulate technical factors for non-routine examinations
- Determine the importance of continued professional development
Computed Tomography
- Demonstrate clinical competence in the CT department.
- Demonstrate acceptable professional and ethical standards
- Demonstrate proper patient care
- Demonstrate appropriate radiation safety when utilizing correct CT protocols
- Understand and apply basic physical principles
- Evaluate image quality, image artifacts, and quality assurance
- Differentiate various tissues from bone anatomy
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Demonstrate clinical competence in the MRI department.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of MRI patient safety.
- Differentiate various tissues from bone anatomy
- Recall MRI imaging techniques and pulse sequences
- Explain the use of FDA approved MRI imaging contrast
Mission & Goals
Program Mission
Our Mission is to provide students with both the academic and technical skills to competently and safely perform Radiologic procedures, to prepare qualified imaging technologists who will ethically respond to the needs of patients with competence and compassion, and to assume a vital professional role as a medical team member.
Program Goals
- Goal: Students will be clinically competent.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will apply positioning skills
Student will select appropriate technical factors
Students will practice radiation protection - Goal: Students will communicate effectively.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will use effective oral communication skills
Students will use effective written communication skills - Goal: Students will use critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will manipulate technical factors for non-routine examinations
Students will adapt positioning for non-routine examinations - Goal: Students will evaluate the importance of professional growth and development.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will determine the importance of continued professional development
Students will summarize their professional obligations upon gaining their ARRT
Program Effectiveness Data
Radiology - Program Effectiveness Data
The data represented on here reflects the Rend Lake College Radiography program’s:
- 5-year average credentialing examination pass rate
- 5-year average job placement rate
- Program completion rate
This information may also be obtained through accessing the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology’s website.
The Data
Credentialing examination pass rate
Credentialing examination pass rate is defined as the number of student graduates who pass, on first attempt, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) certification examination compared with the number of graduates who take the examination within six months of graduation.| Graduate Year | ARRT Radiologic Technology Passage Rate (First Attempt within 6 months of graduation ) |
| 2019 | 18/20 |
| 2018 | 16/16 |
| 2017 | 16/17 |
| 2016 | 15/20 |
| 2015 | 15/16 |
5-year average: 80/89 (89%) |
|
Job placement rate
Job placement rate is defined as the number of graduates employed in the radiologic sciences compared to the number of graduates actively seeking employment in the radiologic sciences. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) has defined not actively seeking employment as:
Graduate Year
Job Placement Rate
Analysis of Data
2018
15/15
15 of the 15 graduates that are considered actively seeking found employment within 12 months of completion.
2017
16/16
16 of 16 students found jobs while seeking employment within 12 months of completion
2016
14/15
14 of 15 students found jobs while seeking employment within 12 months of completion. The majority of RLC’s AAS graduates continue their education
2015
13/13
13 of 13 students found jobs while seeking employment within 12 months of completion. The majority of RLC's AAS graduates continue their education.
2014
9/9
9 of 9 students found jobs while seeking employment within 12 months of completion. The majority of RLC’s AAS graduates continue their education
5 Year Average: 63/68 (99%)
Program Completion Rate
Program completion rate is defined as the number of students who complete the program within 150% of the stated program length. The rate is determined by the number of students who graduate within 24 months of entry into the program, compared to the number of students who are enrolled and attend until the midterm of the first Fall semester.| Graduate Year | Program Completion Rate |
| 2019 | 20/28 |
| 2018 | 16/29 |
| 2017 | 17/27 |
| 2016 | 20/28 |
| 2015 | 17/32 |
|
5 Year Average: 90/144 (62%) |
|
Useful Links
American Society of Radiologic Technologists - ASRT is the premier professional association for radiologic science professionals. Members enjoy access to high-quality continuing education, peer-reviewed journals, a member magazine just for R.T.s, and discounts on many products and services.
Association of Educators in Radiological Sciences - The goal of AEIRS is to meet the needs of the educator in imaging and radiologic sciences. Founded as the Association of University Radiologic Technologists in 1967.
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists - ARRT is the world’s largest credentialing organization that seeks to ensure high quality patient care in medical imaging, interventional procedures, and radiation therapy. They certify and register technologists through administration of education, ethics and examination requirements.
Illinois Emergency Management Agency - IEMA better prepares the State of Illinois for natural, manmade or technological disasters, hazards, or acts of terrorism. Part of that includes registering and inspecting radiation producing equipment and facilities statewide; accrediting medical radiation technologists; and certifying mammography facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please read all application materials and the section of the catalog that pertains to your program of interest. Many of your questions may be answered there.When is the application deadline for the Rad Tech program?
The deadline is March 31st at midnight.
How many students are accepted into the program each year?
We accept approximately 30-32 students into the Radiologic Technology program each year.
How do you choose candidates?
Psychological Services Bureau test scores are used, along with awarded points that are given for completed program required generals. These two factors are combined with preference given to in-district students.
What is required to be turned in before the deadline of March 31st?
The online program application must be completed, any transcripts that are being submitted must be turned into Student Records prior to the deadline.
Does Radiologic Technology have an admission fee?
No
Do I have to be accepted by the College before I can be accepted into the Radiologic Technology program?
Yes. Please contact the Admissions office.
When does the Radiologic Technology program start?
The program accepts new students each fall semester.
How long is the Radiologic Technology program?
The AAS program is 5 consecutive semesters.
Should I apply before I ask for the transcript to be sent?
You may turn in the application form before you ask other schools to send transcripts. As long as your file is complete before the deadline, it is not important in what order things arrive. It is your responsibility to make sure we receive everything needed for your file before the deadline.
Should I speak to an advisor before I sign up for classes?
While the College rules do not require you to be advised before you sign up for classes, it is a good idea to come to our office and talk to someone rather than signing up for any classes that sound good.
Do students have to do clinical work?
Yes, there is much clinical work involved.
Can I go part time?
General education coursework may be completed on a part-time basis. However, once the Radiologic Technology program begins, coursework is completed only on a full-time basis.
Do I need my own computer?
Many courses include computer and Internet-based assignments. Having your own computer gives you more freedom in completing course assignments. Computer labs are available on campus for student use. As a student, you receive free access from home to the Internet and an email address.
Accreditated by
Joint Review committee on Education in Radiologic Technology,
20 N Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago IL 60606-3182
PH 312-704-5300 Fax 312-704-5304
www.jrcert.org
Southern Illinois University - Carbondale
Faculty & Staff
Allied Health Division
Phone: (618) 437-5321 Ext. 1251
Email:
Address: 468 N. Ken Gray Parkway, Ina, IL 62846 Attn: Allied Health
Fax Number: (618) 437-5677 Attn: Allied Health
Upcoming Events
| Fall Final Exams Dec 07 2019 |
| December Meeting: Board of Trustees Dec 10 2019 |
| Rend Lake College Holiday Party Dec 13 2019 |
| Annual Electrical Refresher Training Dec 14 2019 |
| Intersession (5-weeks) Dec 16 2019 |
| Holiday Break (offices closed) Dec 24 2019 |
| Taxidermy Jan 02 2020 |
| Spring Textbooks Available for Rent/Sale Jan 06 2020 |
| PiYo Jan 07 2020 |
| Warrior Days Orientation Workshop Jan 08 2020 |