Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Victoria KS 67671 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Choose an Xray Tech College near Victoria Kansas

Victoria KS x-ray tech internship program Best wishes on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Victoria KS in order to learn to be a radiology technologist. And now that you have chosen to enter the gratifying field of healthcare, just how do you go about picking the ideal college and program to ensure that you will get the proper training to become a qualified practitioner? And since most states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, based on where you subsequently practice you may need preparation to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you investigate each of the colleges you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. Most potential students begin by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within commuting distance of their residences. Next, they check tuition and usually settle on the most affordable cost. But while expense and location should be taken into consideration, there are additional important qualifications also. For instance, you must find out whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you must ask the schools you are evaluating are presented later in this article. But first, let’s talk about what a radiologic tech does and the degrees and education options that are available.

X-Ray Technician Job Description

There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be called radiologic technologists, radiologic technicians, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, each has the identical fundamental job description, which is to employ imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. Some radiologic technologists might also provide radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some choose to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialty, for example mammography. They may practice in Victoria KS clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technician may work with include:

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

Radiographers have to care for their equipment plus regularly evaluate its functionality and safety. They are additionally expected to retain in-depth records of all of their diagnostic procedures. As Victoria KS medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

Radiology Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Victoria KS The basic requirement for enrolling in a radiology tech program is to have received 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 prevalent among technicians, usually takes 18 months to 2 years to finish depending on the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at as much as four years to finish and is more extensive in scope. The majority of students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that are acceptable as well. One thing to bear in mind is that Victoria KS radiographer schools have a clinical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It may frequently be satisfied by participating in an internship or externship program which many colleges sponsor through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to comply with any certification or licensing mandates in Kansas or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-Ray Tech Certification and Licensing

When you have graduated from an x-ray technician program, depending on the state where you will be working you might need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their requirements vary so check with your state. At present, all states that do mandate licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the purpose of licensing, but a number accept additional options for testing as well. A number of states also call for certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. However, many Victoria KS employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might enhance your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program in addition to a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every other year, which can be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.

Online Radiology Technician Schools

attending x-ray tech school online in Victoria 67671 As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree colleges. So even though you can still earn your online degree, a considerable portion of the training will be satisfied either in a college lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is typically conducted in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online segment of the training can be accessed in the comfort of your Victoria KS home. Students who keep working while earning their degree typically find that the online approach to education is far more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online schools are frequently more affordable than traditional options. In addition to lower tuition, expenditures for study materials and commuting can be lessened as well. But just make sure that the online school you choose is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are dedicated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online school may be the ideal option for you.

Topics to Ask X Ray Tech Colleges

Once you have chosen the kind of degree that you want to obtain, you can begin the process of looking for and evaluating Victoria KS x-ray technician schools. You will also need to decide if you want to attend classes online or drive to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the college will be relevant. The price of tuition and ancillary expenses will be a determining factor also. But in addition to location and cost, what more should you look at when evaluating colleges? Well, you need to find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these crucial details prior to making your selection, we have put together a list of questions that you should ask the schools you are assessing.

Are the X-Ray Tech Programs Accredited? A large number of xray tech schools have obtained some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still important to verify that the program and school are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Schools earning accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a rigorous review of their instructors and course materials. If the program is online it might also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. All accrediting organizations 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 obtaining financial aid and student loans, which are often not available for non-accredited colleges. Accreditation can also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Victoria KS health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited school for entry-level jobs.

Are Internship Programs Sponsored? Find out if the Kansas radiology tech schools you are assessing have relationships with area hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Internships are not only an excellent way to obtain practical experience in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to satisfy the clinical training requirement for most programs. As an ancillary benefit, they can help graduates and students develop professional relationships in the Victoria KS healthcare community and assist with obtaining employment.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Find out if the x-ray tech programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Victoria KS healthcare employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the Program Located? For many students, the college they pick will need to be within commuting distance of their Victoria KS residence. Students who have decided to attend classes online naturally will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of concern. Something to consider is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or even out of your local area, you may need to pay a higher tuition. State colleges often charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges frequently charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

What Size are the Classes ? Unless you are the sort of person that prefers to sit way in the rear of class or hide in the crowd, you will likely prefer a small class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Victoria KS colleges you are looking at what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you a chance to speak with a few of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program also.

Can the Program Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you need to verify that the x-ray tech college you ultimately pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you choose to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule night or weekend classes in Victoria KS, verify that they are offered. If you can only enroll on a part-time basis, check if that is an alternative and how many courses or credit hours you would need to carry. Also, ask what the protocol is for making up any classes that you may miss as a result of work, illness or family obligations.

Why Did You Desire to Become a Radiologic Technologist?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's a good idea to reflect on questions you could be asked. One of the things that hiring managers often ask radiographer candidates is "What compelled you to pick radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is hoping to uncover is not just the private reasons you might have for being an X-Ray tech, but additionally what characteristics and talents you have that make you outstanding at your profession. You will probably be asked questions pertaining exclusively to radiography, in addition to a significant number of general interview questions, so you should organize some strategies about how you want to respond to them. Since there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can respond to this primary question in a multitude of ways. When readying an answer, try to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the abilities you possess that make you an exceptional X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the job. Don't try to memorize an answer, but jot down several concepts and topics that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Reading through sample responses can help you to formulate your own concepts, and provide ideas of what to discuss to wow the interviewer.

Select the Right Radiology Technician School near Victoria KS

Enrolling in the ideal x-ray technician school is a crucial first step toward initiating a satisfying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiographer must be in good physical shape. Radiology techs regularly stand for the majority of the workday and position and in some cases lift the patient to get the proper image. Prospects must also show an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to comply with the safety guidelines developed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having social skills is a must in order to have a productive work environment and deliver the best available patient care. As we have addressed in this post, there are a number of questions that you should ask each program you are looking at before making your final decision. This is similarly true whether you participate in an online program or commute to classes on-campus. By asking the right questions you can analyze and compare each school so you can narrow down your options and make your final choice. And with the appropriate training and your motivation to be successful, you can accomplish your goal to work as a x-ray tech in Victoria KS.

Some Background on Victoria Kansas

Victoria, Kansas

Victoria is a city in Ellis County, Kansas, United States.[4] As of the 2010 census, the city population was 1,214.[5]

A group of English and Scottish colonists led by a Scotsman named George Grant founded Victoria in 1873 on land he had purchased from the Kansas Pacific Railway. They named the settlement after Queen Victoria.[6] Grant intended for Victoria to be a ranching community and was purportedly responsible for bringing the first Aberdeen Angus cattle to the United States. Most of the colonists, however, were remittance men more interested in sports and dancing than in raising livestock. Their families soon learned of this and reduced the remittances, driving most of the colonists to leave by 1880. Some returned to Britain; others left for South America.[7][8][9]

In 1876, Volga Germans from villages near Saratov, Russia established the settlement of Herzog one half mile north of Victoria. Herzog's Roman Catholic settlers built a series of churches which culminated in the construction of St. Fidelis Catholic Church, known as "The Cathedral of the Plains," in 1911. Herzog grew rapidly and later absorbed Victoria, eventually adopting the older settlement's name. Herzog was officially renamed Victoria in 1913.[10]

In 1942, the U.S. Army built Walker Army Airfield 3 miles northeast of Victoria. During World War II, thousands were stationed at the airfield, most for training in operation of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress bomber aircraft. The military closed the base in 1946.[11]

In 1966, construction of Interstate 70 reached Victoria, passing north of the city.[8]