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Factors to Consider When Selecting a School Offering Radiological Science Programs

Higher Education Articles March 23, 2015

Radiological science features the use of imaging technology, including CT scans, MRIs, and x-rays, to treat and diagnose injuries or illnesses in patients. Many schools in the nation offer Bachelor of Science in Radiological Science (B.S.R.S.) degree programs.

Selecting a School Offering Radiological Science Programs

Four-year universities and colleges typically offer radiological science programs. In this article, we take a look at some important factors you must consider when you select a school that offers radiological science programs:

Specialization Choices

Those interested in higher paying jobs should look into certification in specialized areas of radiological science, which might provide advancement in the workplace. Some schools offer plenty of focus areas within the curriculum; others offer specialized degrees, including the B.S.R.S. with a radiography concentration; and some others do not offer official specializations within the major. Concentration areas may feature nuclear medicine, technology, radiation therapy, fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or pre-medicine.

Accelerated Program Choices

Those interested in entering the workforce should look into fast-tracking education. Some schools feature the traditional four-year plan, but others may use a year-round plan, which may reduce program time to 32 consecutive months; course loads during the summer may also become lighter.

Prior Education Requirements

A student’s prior experience may determine his or her path to completion of a radiological science program. While high school diploma holders can find admission into some schools, a year of prerequisite work at the college level is mandatory for acceptance into some other programs.

Many programs allow the transfer and award bachelor’s degrees after just two years of additional coursework in the case of students that have already earned an associate’s degree in radiological science. Aspiring radiologic technologists may become eligible for professional certification by choosing programs accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Internships

Externships and internships are very useful to students in radiological science due to the professional connections and hands-on experience they provide. Some schools encourage students to complete externships or internships in the final year of the program; others have internship opportunities spaced evenly throughout the program. Sometimes internships may not be a requirement for graduation and are not accounted for within the curriculum.

Bachelor’s Programs in Radiological Science

The focus of radiological science degree programs is largely on the science of radiography. There is a requirement for clinical experience through a B.S.R.S. program, often as an externship or internship. After he or she obtains a B.S.R.S. degree, a student must pursue accreditation through ARRT before he or she can begin professional practice. Radiologic technologists must also find certification through ARRT in their area of specialization, such as MRIs or radiography. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:

•Radiation protection
•Imaging techniques
•Physics
•Anatomy and physiology
•Pathology

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