Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Framingham MA 01701 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Pick an Xray Tech Program near Framingham Massachusetts

Framingham MA x-ray tech internship program Congrats regarding your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Framingham MA in order to become a radiologic technician. And now that you have decided to go into the gratifying field of healthcare, how do you undertake selecting the right school and program so that you will get the proper training to become a skilled professional? And because the majority of states do mandate that x-ray techs become licensed, based on where you ultimately practice you may require training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you research each of the schools you are looking at in order to evaluate each program. Most potential students start by searching for technical schools or colleges that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and often settle on the most affordable cost. But while location and cost should be taken into account, there are other important qualifiers also. For instance, you must ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you should ask the colleges you are reviewing are provided later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a x-ray tech does and the degrees and training options that are offered.

Radiology Tech Job Description

There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They may also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. Regardless of the name, each has the same primary job description, which is to use imaging machines to internally view patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Many opt to perform as generalists, while others may choose a specialty, such as mammography. They can practice in Framingham MA clinics, hospitals, private practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist 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 maintain their equipment and routinely assess its functionality and safety. They are also required to retain complete records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Framingham MA medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

X-Ray Tech Degrees

x-ray machine in Framingham MA The standard requirement for enrolling in a radiology tech program is to have earned 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, normally requires 18 months to two years to complete based upon the course load and program. A Bachelor’s Degree will take more time at up to 4 years to complete and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students opt for a degree major in Radiography, but there are other similar majors that may be appropriate as well. One thing to bear in mind is that Framingham MA radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as part of their course of study. It may often be satisfied by taking part in an internship or externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their region. Once you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you will need to abide by any certification or licensing mandates in Massachusetts or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

Radiologic Technologist Licensing and Certification

Once you have graduated from an X-Ray tech program, depending on the state where you will be employed you might need to become licensed. The majority of states do require licensing, and their prerequisites differ so get in touch with your state. Currently, all states that do mandate licensure will accept The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but several provide additional options for testing as well. Several states also call for certification as part of the licensing process, if not it is optional. Having said that, numerous Framingham MA employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it might increase your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program requires graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every two years, which may be met with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an examination.

Online Radiology Technologist Classes

attending x-ray tech school online in Framingham 01701 As a component of every degree program, x-ray tech colleges will have practical or lab training included in their curriculum. This is no different for online degree colleges. So even though you can still obtain your degree online, a substantial portion of the training will be fulfilled either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is typically provided in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the colleges. However the online segment of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Framingham MA home. Students who continue working while earning their degree often discover that the online style of learning is far more convenient with their busy schedules. Plus online colleges are generally more affordable than conventional alternatives. Along with lower tuition, costs for commuting and study materials may be decreased also. But just confirm 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 right choice for you.

Questions to Ask Radiologic Tech Programs

After you have chosen the kind of degree that you would like to earn, you can start the process of searching for and assessing Framingham MA x-ray technician schools. You will also need to decide if you prefer to attend online classes or drive to a nearby campus. If you opt for the latter, then obviously the location of the school will be relevant. The cost of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be a material factor as well. But along with location and cost, what more should you factor in when evaluating colleges? Well, you should ask if the schools are accredited, and if they provide internship or externship programs. To help you find out some of these crucial details prior to making your decision, we have compiled a list of questions that you need to ask the programs you are assessing.

Are the X-Ray Technician Colleges Accredited? The majority of xray tech colleges have obtained some type of accreditation, whether national or regional. Even so, it’s still imperative to verify that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly respected 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 examination of their teachers and course materials. If the college 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 acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also help in securing financial assistance and student loans, which are frequently not accessible for non-accredited programs. Accreditation might also be a pre-requisite for certification and licensing as required. And a number of Framingham MA health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited program for entry level jobs.

Are Internships Sponsored? Inquire if the Massachusetts xray technician schools you are assessing have partnerships with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships an excellent means to obtain 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 may assist graduates and students form professional relationships in the Framingham MA medical community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the radiographer schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Framingham MA healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.

Where is the College Located? For a number of students, the school they select will need to be within travelling distance of their Framingham MA home. Students who have chosen to attend classes online obviously will not have to worry themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of local internships will be of concern. One thing to keep in mind is that if you decide to enroll in a school that is out of state or even 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 commonly charge a higher tuition for those students that live outside of their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the type of student that likes to sit far in the back of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will likely prefer a small class size. Small classes permit more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Framingham MA schools you are reviewing what the typical teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with several of the students and instructors to get their perspectives regarding the radiology technician program also.

Does the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the x-ray tech program you finally select can furnish the class schedule you need. This is particularly important if you choose to continue working while you attend classes. If you need to schedule evening or weekend classes in Framingham MA, make sure that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, check if that is an alternative and how many credit hours or courses you would need to carry. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss as a result of work, illness or family obligations.

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

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's helpful to reflect on questions you may be asked. One of the things that recruiters often ask radiographer prospects is "What made you pick radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is trying to uncover is not just the personal reasons you might have for becoming an Xray technician, but additionally what characteristics and abilities you have that make you good at what you do. You will likely be asked questions relating primarily to radiography, along with a significant number of typical interview questions, so you must ready some ideas about how you want to answer them. Because there are several factors that go into choosing a career, you can address this primary question in a multitude of ways. When readying an answer, aim to include the reasons the profession interests you in addition to the talents you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the position. Don't attempt to memorize a response, but write down several concepts and talking points that pertain to your own experiences and strengths. Going over sample responses can help you to prepare your own thoughts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the interviewer.

Pick the Ideal X-Ray Tech Program near Framingham MA

Selecting the ideal radiology tech degree program is a crucial first step toward starting a fulfilling new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiologic technologist should be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs often stand for the greater part of the working day and move and in some cases lift the patient to get the correct image. Prospects must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to adhere to the safety requirements developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. Radiology techs work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having social skills is a necessity in order to have a productive work environment and furnish the best available care to patients. As we have covered in this article, there are several questions that you need to ask each program you are considering before making your ultimate selection. This is just as true whether you decide on an online school or travel to classes on campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can assess and compare each program so you can focus your options and make your decision. And with the right education and your motivation to succeed, you can achieve your goal to work as a radiology tech in Framingham MA.

Some Background on Framingham Massachusetts

Framingham, Massachusetts

Framingham /ˈfreɪmɪŋˌhæm/ ( listen) is a city in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the United States. Incorporated in 1700, it is located within Middlesex County and the MetroWest subregion of the Greater Boston metropolitan area. The town proper covers 25 square miles (65 km2) with an estimated population of 68,318 in 2010, making it the 14th most populous municipality in Massachusetts.[1][2] Residents voted in favor of adopting a charter to transition from a representative town meeting system to a mayor–council government in April 2017, and transitioned to city status on January 1, 2018.[3]

Framingham, sited on the ancient trail known as the Old Connecticut Path, was first settled by a European when John Stone settled on the west bank of the Sudbury River in 1647. In 1660, Thomas Danforth, an official of the Bay Colony, formerly of Framlingham, Suffolk, received a grant of land at "Danforth's Farms" and began to accumulate over 15,000 acres (100 km2). He strenuously resisted petitions for incorporation of the town, which was officially incorporated in 1700, following his death the previous year. Why the "L" was dropped from the new town's name is not known. The first church was organized in 1701, the first teacher was hired in 1706, and the first permanent schoolhouse in 1716.

On February 22, 1775, the British general Thomas Gage sent two officers and an enlisted man out of Boston to survey the route to Worcester, Massachusetts. In Framingham, those spies stopped at Buckminster's Tavern. They watched the town militia muster outside the building, impressed with the men's numbers but not their discipline. Though "the whole company" came into the tavern after their drill, the officers managed to remain undetected and continued on their mission the next day.[4] Gage did not order a march along that route, instead ordering troops to Concord, Massachusetts, on April 18–19. Framingham sent two militia companies totaling about 130 men into the Battles of Lexington and Concord that followed; one of those men was wounded.[5]

In the years prior to the American Civil War, Framingham was an annual gathering-spot for members of the abolitionist movement. Each Independence Day from 1854 to 1865, the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society held a rally in a picnic area called Harmony Grove near what is now downtown Framingham. At the 1854 rally, William Lloyd Garrison burned copies of the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850, judicial decisions enforcing it, and the United States Constitution. Other prominent abolitionists present that day included William Cooper Nell, Sojourner Truth, Wendell Phillips, Lucy Stone, and Henry David Thoreau.[6]

During the post–World War II baby boom, Framingham, like many other suburban areas, experienced a large increase in population and housing. Much of the housing constructed during that time consisted of split-level and ranch-style houses.