How to Choose an X-Ray Technician Degree Program near Tombstone Arizona
Congrats regarding your career choice to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Tombstone AZ in order to learn to be a radiologic technician. But now that you have chosen to enter the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you go about choosing the ideal college and program to ensure that you will obtain the proper training to become a skilled practitioner? And because the majority of states do require that radiology techs become licensed, depending on where you ultimately work you might need preparation to pass a licensing examination. So it’s essential that you research each of the colleges you are looking at so that you can evaluate each program. Many potential students start by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and typically settle on the lowest cost. But while cost and location should be considered, there are other significant qualifications as well. For example, you should find out if the radiology tech schools are accredited, or if they offer internship programs. These inquiries and others you should ask the colleges you are evaluating are presented later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic technician does and the credentials and education choices that are offered.
[campusexplorer header_text=”Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools!” aos=”75346615″ concentration=”8671ABD2″ tracking=”XRAY-CW”]
Radiology Technician Career Summary
There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They can also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. No matter what the name, each has the same fundamental job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many choose to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialty, such as mammography. They can work in Tombstone AZ hospitals, clinics, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech might work with include:
- Traditional and specialized X-Rays
- Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Sonography or ultrasound
- Fluoroscopy
Radiographers must take care of their equipment plus routinely assess its performance and safety. They are additionally expected to retain in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Tombstone AZ medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.
X-Ray Tech Degrees
The standard requirement for attending a radiology tech college is to have attained a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist pupils have the choice to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most common among techs, normally takes 18 months to two years to finish depending on the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at up to 4 years to finish and is more extensive in nature. Most students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that may be appropriate as well. Something to keep in mind is that Tombstone AZ radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as part of their curriculum. It may frequently be fulfilled by taking part in an internship or externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their area. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any licensing or certification requirements in Arizona or the state you will be working as applicable.
X-ray Technician Certification and Licensing
After you have graduated from an x-ray technician program, depending on the state where you will be employed you may need to be licensed. The majority of states do mandate licensing, and their requirements differ so get in touch with your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but several approve additional alternatives for testing also. Several states also require certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is optional. Having said that, many Tombstone AZ employers will only hire radiology techs that are certified so it may enhance your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program calls for graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also demands re-certification every other year, which can be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.
Online X-Ray Technologist Programs
As a part of any 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 although you can still earn your degree online, a considerable portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off-campus. Clinical training is often performed in regional hospitals, outpatient clinics or private practices in sponsorship with the schools. But the online segment of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Tombstone AZ residence. Students who continue working while obtaining their degree typically find that the online approach to learning is far more convenient with their busy schedules. Plus online schools are frequently less costly than on-campus options. Along with lower tuition, expenditures for study materials and commuting may be decreased also. But just make certain that the online college you select is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then online classes may be the ideal choice for you.
Subjects to Ask Radiologic Tech Schools
As soon as you have selected the type of degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of locating and assessing Tombstone AZ x-ray tech schools. You will also need to determine if you want to attend online classes or drive to a local campus. If you opt for the latter, then of course the location of the school will be relevant. The price of tuition and secondary expenses will be an important variable also. But along with cost and location, what more should you look at when comparing schools? Well, you need to find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these essential details prior to making your decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you should ask the schools you are assessing.
Are the Radiology Tech Colleges Accredited? The majority of radiology technician colleges have obtained some form of accreditation, whether national or regional. However, it’s still imperative to verify that the program and school are accredited. One of the most highly regarded accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a rigorous examination of their instructors and educational materials. If the program is online it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. All accrediting organizations should be acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with guaranteeing a superior education, accreditation will also help in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are many times not accessible for non-accredited programs. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And a number of Tombstone AZ health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited program for entry-level jobs.
Are Internship Programs Provided? Inquire if the Arizona xray tech schools you are reviewing have relationships with area clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Internships are not only a great way to receive practical training in a clinical setting, they are also a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they may help graduates and students establish professional relationships in the Tombstone AZ healthcare community and help with job placement.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the radiographer schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Tombstone AZ healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Program Located? For many students, the school they choose will have to be within commuting distance of their Tombstone AZ residence. Individuals who have opted to attend online classes naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of importance. Something to bear in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a program that is out of state or even out of your local area, you might have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges generally charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges typically charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.
What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the sort of student that likes to sit far in the rear of class or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a small class size. Smaller classes allow for more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Tombstone AZ schools you are considering what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may want to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you an opportunity to converse with several of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the radiology technician program also.
Can the School Accommodate your Schedule? And last you must confirm that the radiographer program you finally choose can offer the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you opt to continue working while you attend school. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in Tombstone AZ, check that they are available. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, check if that is an option and how many credit hours or courses you would have to carry. Also, find out what the procedure is for making up any classes that you may miss because of work, illness or family obligations.
Why Did You Desire to Become an X-Ray Tech?
When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's a good idea to reflect on questions you may be asked. One of the questions that hiring managers typically ask radiographer prospects is "What made you pick radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is hoping to uncover is not merely the personal reasons you might have for being an Xray technician, but also what attributes and skills you possess that make you good at what you do. You will likely be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, as well as a significant number of routine interview questions, so you must ready a number of ideas about how you would like to address them. Considering there are numerous factors that go into selecting a career, you can address this fundamental question in a number of ways. When preparing an answer, aim to include the reasons the profession interests you in addition to the strengths you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the perfiect choice for the job. Don't make an effort to memorize a response, but jot down some ideas and topics that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample answers can help you to develop your own concepts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to wow the interviewer.Choose the Right Radiology Technician Program near Tombstone AZ
Enrolling in the appropriate radiology technician college is a critical first step toward beginning a gratifying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs often stand for the majority of the day and move and in some cases lift the patient to obtain the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to follow the safety requirements designed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Possessing social skills is a must in order to have a pleasant work environment and furnish the best available patient care. As has been addressed in this post, there are several questions that you should ask each college you are reviewing before making your final selection. This is similarly true whether you enroll in an online program or travel to classes on-campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can assess and compare each college so you can focus your options before making your decision. And with the appropriate training and your commitment to succeed, you can accomplish your goal to work as a radiology tech in Tombstone AZ.
Some Background on Tombstone Arizona
Tombstone, Arizona
Tombstone is an historic city in Cochise County, Arizona, United States, founded in 1879 by prospector Ed Schieffelin in what was then Pima County, Arizona Territory. It became one of the last boomtowns in the American frontier. The town grew significantly into the mid-1880s as the local mines produced $40 to $85 million in silver bullion, the largest productive silver district in Arizona. Its population grew from 100 to around 14,000 in less than seven years. It is best known as the site of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and presently draws most of its revenue from tourism.
The town was established on a mesa above the Tough Nut Mine. Within two years of its founding, although far distant from any other metropolitan area, Tombstone had a bowling alley, four churches, an ice house, a school, two banks, three newspapers, and an ice cream parlor, alongside 110 saloons, 14 gambling halls, and numerous dance halls and brothels. All of these businesses were situated among and on top of a large number of hardscrabble mines. The gentlemen and ladies of Tombstone attended operas presented by visiting acting troupes at the Schieffelin Hall opera house, while the miners and cowboys saw shows at the Bird Cage Theatre.
Under the surface were tensions that grew into deadly conflict. The mining capitalists and the townspeople were largely Republicans from the Northern states. Many of the ranchers (some of whom—like the Clantons—were also rustlers or other criminal varieties) were Confederate sympathizers and Democrats. The booming city was only 30 miles (48 km) from the U.S.–Mexico border and was an open market for cattle stolen from ranches in Sonora, Mexico, by a loosely organized band of outlaws known as The Cowboys. The Earp brothers—Wyatt, Virgil and Morgan—as well as Doc Holliday, arrived in December 1879 and mid-1880. The Earps had ongoing conflicts with Cowboys Ike and Billy Clanton, Frank and Tom McLaury, and Billy Claiborne. The Cowboys repeatedly threatened the Earps over many months until the conflict escalated into a shootout on October 26, 1881. The historic gunfight is often portrayed as occurring at the O.K. Corral, though it actually occurred a short distance away in an empty lot on Fremont Street.
In the mid-1880s, the silver mines penetrated the water table and the mining companies made significant investments in specialized pumps. A fire in 1886 destroyed the Grand Central hoist and the pumping plant, and it was unprofitable to rebuild the costly pumps. The city nearly became a ghost town, saved only because it was the Cochise County seat until 1929. The city's population dwindled to a low of 646 in 1910, but grew to 1,380 by 2010.[4] Tombstone has frequently been noted on lists of unusual place names.[5][6]
Ed Schieffelin was briefly a scout for the U. S. Army headquartered at Camp Huachuca. Schieffelin frequently searched the wilderness looking for valuable ore samples. At the Santa Rita mines in nearby Santa Cruz Valley, three superintendents had been killed by Indians. When friend and fellow Army Scout Al Sieber learned what Schieffelin was up to, he is quoted as telling him, "The only rock you will find out there will be your own tombstone".[7] Another account reported Schieffelin's friends told him, "Better take your coffin with you; you will find your tombstone there, and nothing else."[8]
More Cities of Interest in Arizona