Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Selma IN 47383 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Choose a Radiologic Tech College near Selma Indiana

Selma IN x-ray tech internship program Congratulations on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Selma IN so you can train to be a radiologic technologist. And now that you have made a decision to enter the gratifying field of healthcare, how do you go about picking the ideal school and program so that you will get the appropriate training to become a skilled practitioner? And considering that the majority of states do mandate that radiology techs become licensed, based on where you ultimately practice you might require preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s imperative that you assess each of the colleges you are looking at so that you can compare each program. Many students start by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and typically gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location must be considered, there are additional important qualifiers also. For instance, you should find out if the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internship programs. These questions and others you must ask the schools you are examining are presented later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a radiology technician does and the credentials and training options that are offered.

X-Ray Tech Job Description

There are multiple professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Regardless of the name, each has the same fundamental job function, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists may also provide radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some elect to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialization, such as mammography. They can practice in Selma IN clinics, hospitals, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray tech may utilize include:

Traditional and specialized X-Rays
Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Sonography or ultrasound
Fluoroscopy

Radiographers have to take care of their equipment and regularly evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally required to retain complete records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Selma IN health practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

X-Ray Tech Degrees Offered

x-ray machine in Selma IN The basic prerequisite for enrolling in a radiology tech program is to have attained a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the option to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among techs, generally takes 18 months to 2 years to complete depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at up to 4 years to complete and is more comprehensive in nature. Most students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional related majors that are appropriate also. Something to bear in mind is that Selma IN radiographer schools have a clinical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may typically be satisfied by participating in an externship program which a large number of schools offer through local hospitals and clinics in their area. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any licensing or certification mandates in Indiana or the state you will be working as applicable.

X-ray Technician Certification and Licensing

After you have graduated from an X-Ray tech program, depending on the state where you will be practicing you may have to be licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their prerequisites differ so contact your state. Presently, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but many accept other alternatives for testing as well. A number of states also require certification as part of the licensing procedure, otherwise it is optional. Having said that, many Selma IN employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it could increase your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their comprehensive examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which can be fulfilled with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Tech Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Selma 47383 As a component of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have clinical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is the same for online degree colleges. So although you can still earn your online degree, a considerable portion of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an internship off campus. Clinical training is typically conducted in area 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 Selma IN home. Students who continue working while earning their degree often find that the online style of education is much more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online colleges are generally less costly than on-campus options. Along with lower tuition, costs for study materials and commuting may be reduced also. But just be sure that the online program you pick is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less structured style of training, then an online degree may be the right option for you.

Topics to Ask X Ray Tech Programs

As soon as you have decided on the type of degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of looking for and evaluating Selma IN x-ray tech schools. You will also need to determine if you prefer to attend online classes or travel to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be important. The price of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be an important factor also. But along with cost and location, what more should you look at when evaluating schools? Well, you need to ask if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these essential details before you make your selection, we have assembled a list of questions that you must ask the colleges you are considering.

Are the Radiology Technician Schools Accredited? The majority of xray tech schools have acquired some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still important to make sure that the program and school are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting organizations in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools obtaining accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a rigorous review of their teachers and course materials. If the program is online it may also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a premium education, accreditation will also assist in acquiring financial aid and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited schools. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And numerous Selma IN employers will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Sponsored? Inquire if the Indiana xray technician programs you are assessing have relationships with area clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific way to receive practical experience in a clinical setting, they are also a means to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a secondary benefit, they can help students and graduates develop professional relationships in the Selma IN medical community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the x-ray tech schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Selma IN healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.

Where is the College Located? For a number of students, the school they select will have to be within commuting distance of their Selma IN home. Those who have chosen to attend classes online naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of concern. Something to bear in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges often charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges often charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the type of student that prefers to sit way in the rear of class or get lost in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Small classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Selma IN colleges you are reviewing what the typical student to teacher ratio is for their classes. If practical you may want to monitor one or more classes before making your ultimate determination. This will also give you a chance to speak with several of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program as well.

Does the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer school you finally pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly crucial if you choose to continue working while you attend school. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Selma IN, make sure that they are offered. 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 need to enroll in. Also, find out what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss because of illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Want to Become an X-Ray Tech?

When prepping to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's important to consider questions you may be asked. Among the questions that recruiters typically ask radiographer applicants is "What made you select radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is hoping to discover is not merely the private reasons you may have for being a radiology technician, but also what characteristics and abilities you possess that make you exceptional at what you do. You will likely be asked questions relating specifically to radiography, along with a significant number of standard interview questions, so you must ready several ideas about how you would like to answer them. Because there are so many factors that go into selecting a career, you can address this primary question in a multitude of ways. When preparing an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work appeals to you in addition to the abilities you have that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the job. Don't try to memorize an answer, but write down several concepts and talking points that relate to your personal experiences and strengths. Reading through sample responses can help you to formulate your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to include to wow the interviewer.

Choose the Ideal Radiology Technician School near Selma IN

Picking the appropriate x-ray tech school is a critical first step toward launching a fulfilling new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer should be in good physical condition. Radiology techs typically stand for the majority of the working day and move and in some cases lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. Radiology technicians work very closely with patients, other techs as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having interpersonal skills is a must in order to have a pleasant work environment and provide the best possible care to patients. As has been discussed in this article, there are several questions that you should ask each college you are considering before making your final decision. This is similarly true whether you enroll in an online school or travel to classes on-campus. By asking the right questions you can evaluate and compare each school so you can narrow down your options before making your decision. And with the appropriate training and your motivation to succeed, you can reach your goal to work as a radiologic technologist in Selma IN.

Some Background on Selma Indiana

Selma, Lord, Selma

Selma, Lord, Selma is a 1999 American film based on true events that happened in March 1965, known as Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama. The film tells the story through the eyes of an 11-year-old African-American girl named Sheyann Webb (Jurnee Smollett). It was directed by Charles Burnett, one of the pioneers of black American independent cinema. It premiered as a television movie on ABC on January 17, 1999.

Sheyann Webb sees Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. going into Brown Chapel AME Church one day while playing outside with her friends. They are told that Dr. King has come to Selma, Alabama to help the Negro people get voting rights. Sheyann learns many things from Dr. King. He teaches her and her friend Rachel (Stephanie Zandra Peyton) that when asked, "Children, what do you want?" their answer should be "Freedom." He also teaches her that everyone deserves to be treated with fairness, regardless of the color of their skin, and that children also have a battle to fight. Sheyann wants to get involved and skips school to sneak into the meetings. One night a friend of Sheyann's named Jimmie Lee Jackson is killed. To draw attention to the death of Jimmie Lee Jackson, it is decided that a 54-mile march to the state capital of Alabama will take place. Marchers will present a petition to Governor Wallace to protest that Negroes are not being treated fairly. On Sunday, March 7, 1965, a day that comes to be called Bloody Sunday, Sheyann and other African-American protesters march over the Edmund Pettus Bridge en route to Montgomery, and are attacked by police. Sheyann is the youngest person to attempt to march.

In August, President Lyndon Johnson signs the Voting Rights Act of 1965, to oversee and enforce constitutional rights of suffrage and prevent discriminatory measures, such as use of literacy tests against potential voters.

Selma, Lord, Selma is based on a book of the same name written in 1980 by Sheyann Webb, Rachel West and Frank Sikora. The full title is Selma, Lord, Selma: Girlhood Memories of the Civil-Rights Days. It was published by the University of Alabama Press in Tuscaloosa, AL. It is written in the style of memoirs by Sheyann and Rachel.[2]

Selma, Lord, Selma was made into a movie. Walt Disney Pictures picked it up and on January 17, 1999, one day prior to the national holiday commemorating Dr. King's birthday, it was broadcast on the ABC television network. Dr. King's daughter Yolanda is featured in the film as Miss Bright, Sheyann's teacher who marches with Sheyann in the back of the march. Music composed by Stephen James Taylor, with vocals by Brides of the Wind.