7 answers
Dolores
Student
Pasadena, California
1
Question
Asked
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How can I further my education if i become an x ray technician with an associates degree Or is an associates enough to live a comfortable lifestyle financially ?
Freshman Community College student
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6 answers
Catherine O
Radiologic Technologist RT(R)(CT)
9
Answers
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
Technicians fix the equipment. Technologists are the ones imaging patients. Also, most jobs require you do a X-ray program from a community college at the bare minimum to obtain an associates. They no longer do certification through onsite hospital training for X-ray unless you are enrolled with a college X-ray program. You would need to find a school that offers it and apply there. I started out in X-ray but personally decided to make the switch to Computed Tomography because it makes more in my area. It all depends on what you want to do and how you plan to live your life expense wise since it’s typically the lowest paying of the imaging modalities. For the ARRT (Credentialing organization) you need 24 continuing education credits every 2 years to stay certified with them plus my own state has extra regulations to keep my state license for my job. Also with ARRT you need to take an exam every 10 Years to make sure you’re continuing your understanding of Imaging and keeping up to date on the field. Different jobs also have more requirements that need to be met to continue working for them. Your best bet is to go look at schools near you that offer it and find out as much information as you can like what the average start pay for new grads is and what the requirements are to graduate. It is possible to stay in X-ray your entire career but I find a lot of the younger techs in my area and even the ones I graduated with are leaving when possible to other modalities to make more money. The ones that stay in have most likely stayed in it their entire career and are older and don’t want to make any big moves or don’t need the money as much anymore.
Talk to schools near you with radiologic technology as a major
Look up the average salary for technologists in your area
Look up state requirements for the state you would be working in
Look and see how much money you would need a year to live comfortably and compare to the average salary for technologist in your area
Catherine recommends the following next steps:
Katie Alsheimer
Physician
16
Answers
Elmira Heights, NY
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Good morning Dolores,
I’m not an xray tech, I’m a physician, but I can do my best to answer this question. Continued education is usually required by the licensing boards. This requires you to complete lectures or readings to make sure you stay updated on the changing environment we live in. This occurs after you obtain the training.
Most people would agree that the minimum training is enough to get you a job. However, we all strive to be better and this occurs through continued education. This might be formal with additional credentials or informal with lectures. Self fulfillment questions, like the one you posted, are always a little difficult to answer because living comfortably is a definition that is internal meaning that my definition might not match yours.
Becoming an xray tech requires college training and applying for a career. Maintaining and excelling at your career is individualized based on your goals and aspirations which change as we grown in our careers. I hope this answer can provide some insight. Hospitals are always looking for volunteers and they are accustomed to working with high school students. I recommend talking with the volunteer office at your local hospital and asking some xray techs their opinions.
Have a great week,
Katie
I’m not an xray tech, I’m a physician, but I can do my best to answer this question. Continued education is usually required by the licensing boards. This requires you to complete lectures or readings to make sure you stay updated on the changing environment we live in. This occurs after you obtain the training.
Most people would agree that the minimum training is enough to get you a job. However, we all strive to be better and this occurs through continued education. This might be formal with additional credentials or informal with lectures. Self fulfillment questions, like the one you posted, are always a little difficult to answer because living comfortably is a definition that is internal meaning that my definition might not match yours.
Becoming an xray tech requires college training and applying for a career. Maintaining and excelling at your career is individualized based on your goals and aspirations which change as we grown in our careers. I hope this answer can provide some insight. Hospitals are always looking for volunteers and they are accustomed to working with high school students. I recommend talking with the volunteer office at your local hospital and asking some xray techs their opinions.
Have a great week,
Katie
Elaine Purdy
Healthcare administrator and professor at univeristy for healthcare administration undergraduate and graduate level
9
Answers
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Updated
Elaine’s Answer
You have received excellent advise in the answers provided. I wanted to add one more note - Once you complete your Associate's degree and begin to work be open to new learning experiences at your place of employment. They may offer courses or programs to advance your level of competency in your field or develop management skills. Also, check with your employer regarding tuition benefits. Many employers will assist you if you want to advance your education. Universities have programs for people with an Associate degree to fast track you into a bachelor's degree. Research universities for a program that allows you to work, receive tuition assistance from your employer and fit your next goals.
Best Wishes !
Best Wishes !
Sharline Law, MS, BSN, RN
Registered Nurse
1
Answer
Angleton, Texas
Updated
Sharline’s Answer
Hello,
In a nutshell, your future depends on the kind of life you envision for yourself.
To elaborate a bit: For some, achieving an associate's degree might be the realization of a lifelong dream, while for others, it's just the starting point. The first step is to identify your immediate and long-term aspirations, devise a strategy to reach those objectives, and maintain enough flexibility to adapt when unexpected turns of life occur.
Remember, there's a world of opportunities beyond being an XR tech (XRT) waiting for you. Start by identifying what you love most about being an XRT. From there, you could branch out into becoming a Radiologist, a nurse, or even an engineer, among many other options. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and the sky's the limit.
Speak with your instructors or advisors to determine how your associates degree can lead to a more advanced degree.
Speak with coworkers within your department about other areas you could possibly work in to gain more experience.
Ask coworkers who are not within your department but that you may interact with and find out what they enjoy about their job.
When you find a role that you like search online the requirements you must fulfill to become that.
If you find that you simply want to be an XRT and that’s where you find joy, be the best XRT you can possibly be because all of your patients need that and you!
In a nutshell, your future depends on the kind of life you envision for yourself.
To elaborate a bit: For some, achieving an associate's degree might be the realization of a lifelong dream, while for others, it's just the starting point. The first step is to identify your immediate and long-term aspirations, devise a strategy to reach those objectives, and maintain enough flexibility to adapt when unexpected turns of life occur.
Remember, there's a world of opportunities beyond being an XR tech (XRT) waiting for you. Start by identifying what you love most about being an XRT. From there, you could branch out into becoming a Radiologist, a nurse, or even an engineer, among many other options. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and the sky's the limit.
Sharline recommends the following next steps:
Godfrey Magawe
Clinical officer nephrology
114
Answers
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
Updated
Godfrey’s Answer
X-ray technology certificate is a good medical career option.
One can proceed to do a certificate in x-ray technology after associate Degree...you just need to check on the eligibility requirements for the course in one of the colleges that offer the course.
I believe the course can take between 2 to 3 years to complete thereafter one will be registered as an X-ray technician.
So it's possible with a science based associate degree
One can proceed to do a certificate in x-ray technology after associate Degree...you just need to check on the eligibility requirements for the course in one of the colleges that offer the course.
I believe the course can take between 2 to 3 years to complete thereafter one will be registered as an X-ray technician.
So it's possible with a science based associate degree
Amina Bahar
PROFESSIONAL HEALTHCARE CONSULTANT
22
Answers
Cambridge, Maryland
Updated
Amina’s Answer
Becoming an X-ray technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, with an associate degree can be a rewarding and stable career choice. However, if you wish to further your education or improve your financial prospects, there are several pathways you can consider. Here are detailed steps and considerations for both scenarios:
Financial Outlook with an Associate Degree
An associate degree in radiologist technology typically allows you to:
1. **Enter the Workforce:**
- **Median Salary:** According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for radiologic technologists was approximately $63,710 as of May 2022.
- **Job Stability:** The demand for radiologic technologists is expected to grow by 7% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations, ensuring job stability.
2. **Living Comfortably:**
- Depending on your location and lifestyle, a median salary can provide a comfortable living. However, cost of living varies significantly across different regions.
- Benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off often accompany positions in healthcare settings, contributing to overall financial stability.
Furthering Your Education
If you want to advance your career and potentially increase your earnings, consider the following options:
1. **Bachelor’s Degree in Radiologic Sciences:**
- **Why:** A bachelor's degree can open up advanced positions in management, education, or specialized imaging techniques.
- **Programs:** Many universities offer bachelor's completion programs for individuals who already hold an associate degree in radiologic technology.
2. **Specialization:**
- **Options:** Specialize in areas such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography), mammography, or interventional radiography.
- **Certification:** Additional certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) can enhance your skills and marketability.
3. **Advanced Modalities:**
- **Path:** Pursue training in advanced imaging modalities like nuclear medicine, ultrasound, or radiation therapy.
- **Impact:** These specializations often command higher salaries and offer more opportunities for advancement.
4. **Healthcare Administration or Management:**
- **Degree:** Consider a bachelor's or master’s degree in healthcare administration, management, or a related field.
- **Career Path:** Transition into administrative or managerial roles within healthcare facilities, which can lead to significant salary increases.
5. **Radiologist Assistant:**
- **Role:** Radiologist Assistants (RAs) are advanced practice radiologic technologists who work closely with radiologists.
- **Education:** Complete a radiologist assistant program, which typically results in a master’s degree.
- **Salary:** RAs typically earn higher salaries than standard radiologic technologists.
Steps to Further Your Education
1. **Research Programs:**
- Identify programs that align with your career goals, whether they are bachelor’s completion programs, specialized certifications, or advanced degrees.
2. **Meet Prerequisites:**
- Ensure you meet any prerequisites for the programs you are interested in, which might include specific coursework or clinical experience.
3. **Apply:**
- Complete the application process for your chosen programs, which may include submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
4. **Financial Aid:**
- Look into financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs.
5. **Work-Life Balance:**
- If you are working while studying, consider programs that offer flexible scheduling, such as online courses or part-time enrollment.
Financial Outlook with an Associate Degree
An associate degree in radiologist technology typically allows you to:
1. **Enter the Workforce:**
- **Median Salary:** According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for radiologic technologists was approximately $63,710 as of May 2022.
- **Job Stability:** The demand for radiologic technologists is expected to grow by 7% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations, ensuring job stability.
2. **Living Comfortably:**
- Depending on your location and lifestyle, a median salary can provide a comfortable living. However, cost of living varies significantly across different regions.
- Benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off often accompany positions in healthcare settings, contributing to overall financial stability.
Furthering Your Education
If you want to advance your career and potentially increase your earnings, consider the following options:
1. **Bachelor’s Degree in Radiologic Sciences:**
- **Why:** A bachelor's degree can open up advanced positions in management, education, or specialized imaging techniques.
- **Programs:** Many universities offer bachelor's completion programs for individuals who already hold an associate degree in radiologic technology.
2. **Specialization:**
- **Options:** Specialize in areas such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography), mammography, or interventional radiography.
- **Certification:** Additional certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) can enhance your skills and marketability.
3. **Advanced Modalities:**
- **Path:** Pursue training in advanced imaging modalities like nuclear medicine, ultrasound, or radiation therapy.
- **Impact:** These specializations often command higher salaries and offer more opportunities for advancement.
4. **Healthcare Administration or Management:**
- **Degree:** Consider a bachelor's or master’s degree in healthcare administration, management, or a related field.
- **Career Path:** Transition into administrative or managerial roles within healthcare facilities, which can lead to significant salary increases.
5. **Radiologist Assistant:**
- **Role:** Radiologist Assistants (RAs) are advanced practice radiologic technologists who work closely with radiologists.
- **Education:** Complete a radiologist assistant program, which typically results in a master’s degree.
- **Salary:** RAs typically earn higher salaries than standard radiologic technologists.
Steps to Further Your Education
1. **Research Programs:**
- Identify programs that align with your career goals, whether they are bachelor’s completion programs, specialized certifications, or advanced degrees.
2. **Meet Prerequisites:**
- Ensure you meet any prerequisites for the programs you are interested in, which might include specific coursework or clinical experience.
3. **Apply:**
- Complete the application process for your chosen programs, which may include submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
4. **Financial Aid:**
- Look into financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs.
5. **Work-Life Balance:**
- If you are working while studying, consider programs that offer flexible scheduling, such as online courses or part-time enrollment.