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Radiology Tech Degrees Available
The standard requirement for attending a radiology tech program is to have earned a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist pupils have the opportunity to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor's Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, normally requires 18 months to 2 years to finish based upon the program and course load. A Bachelor's Degree will take more time at as much as 4 years to complete and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that are acceptable as well. One thing to keep in mind is that radiographer programs have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It can frequently be satisfied by participating in an externship program which many schools offer through local clinics and hospitals in Illinois. After you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must abide by any certification or licensing requirements in Illinois or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.
Radiologic Technologist Licensing and Certification
Once you have graduated from an Radiologist school, based on the state where you will be working you might need to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their prerequisites differ so contact your state. At present, all states that do require licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but many offer additional alternatives for testing as well. Some states also call for certification as a component of the licensing procedure, if not it is voluntary. However, numerous Illinois employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might improve your career options in Illinois to earn certification. ARRT's certification program requires graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every other year, which can be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.
Online X-Ray Technologist Programs
As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree programs. So even though you can still earn your degree online, a significant portion of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an internship off-campus. Practical training is often provided in Illinois hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. However the online section of the training may be attended in the comfort of your Illinois home. Students who keep working while earning their degree typically discover that the online style of education is much more practical with their active schedules. Plus online colleges are frequently more affordable than traditional options. In addition to lower tuition, costs for study materials and commuting may be decreased as well. But just make sure that the online college you enroll in is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured style of training, then an online school may be the best option for you.