Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Ann Arbor MI 48103 - Find X-Ray and Radiology Tech Schools

How to Choose an X-Ray Tech College near Ann Arbor Michigan

Ann Arbor MI x-ray tech internship program Congratulations on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Ann Arbor MI in order to learn to be a radiologic technician. And now that you have made a decision to enter the satisfying field of healthcare, just how do you undertake choosing the right school and program to ensure that you will obtain the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And since the majority of states do require that x-ray techs become licensed, based on where you ultimately practice you might require training to pass a licensing exam. So it’s important that you investigate each of the schools you are considering so that you can compare each program. A number of students begin by looking for colleges or technical schools that are within driving distance of their residences. Next, they compare tuition and frequently gravitate toward the most affordable cost. But while location and cost need to be taken into consideration, there are other important qualifications also. For instance, you need to ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they sponsor internships. These questions and others you must ask the colleges you are reviewing are provided later in this post. But first, let’s explore what a radiology tech does and the credentials and education choices that are available.

X-Ray Technician Job Summary

There are a number of professional titles for x-ray techs (technologists or technicians). They may also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiology technicians or radiographers. Irrespective of the name, each has the same major job function, which is to utilize imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists may also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some choose to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for example mammography. They may work in Ann Arbor MI 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 must take care of their equipment plus routinely analyze its functionality and safety. They are also expected to retain in-depth records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Ann Arbor MI medical practitioners, they must adhere to a code of conduct and a high professional standard.

X-Ray Technician Degrees

x-ray machine in Ann Arbor MI The basic requirement for attending an x-ray tech program is to have attained a high school diploma or equivalent. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most prevalent among technicians, normally 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 nature. Most students choose a degree major in Radiography, but there are other similar majors that may be appropriate also. Something to bear in mind is that Ann Arbor MI radiographer programs have a practical training or lab component as a component of their course of study. It can frequently be fulfilled by taking part in an externship program which a large number of schools sponsor through local clinics and hospitals in their region. Once you have graduated from one of the degree programs, you must abide by any licensing or certification requirements in Michigan or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-ray Technician Licensing and Certification

After you have graduated from an x-ray technician college, based on the state where you will be working you might need to become licensed. Most states do require licensing, and their requirements differ so contact your state. At present, all states that do require licensure will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination for the licensing application, but a number accept other options for testing also. A number of states also require certification as a component of the licensing procedure, if not it is optional. However, many Ann Arbor MI employers would rather hire radiology techs that are certified so it may increase your career options to become certified. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an accepted program as well as a passing score on their rigorous examination. ARRT also calls for re-certification every two years, which can be satisfied with 24 credits of continuing education, or by passing an exam.

Online Radiology Technician Programs

attending x-ray tech school online in Ann Arbor 48103 As a part of every degree program, x-ray tech schools will have practical or lab training included in their course of study. This is the same for online degree programs. So while you can still obtain your degree online, a substantial amount of the training will be satisfied either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Clinical training is typically performed in area family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. However the online segment of the training may be attended in the privacy of your Ann Arbor MI home. Students who keep working while earning their degree usually find that the online style of education is far more convenient with their hectic schedules. Plus online schools are generally more affordable than on-campus alternatives. Along with reduced tuition, costs for study materials and commuting may be decreased as well. But just make sure that the online school you pick is accredited (more on the advantages of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less structured type of training, then an online school may be the best option for you.

Points to Ask X Ray Tech Programs

When you have decided on the kind of degree that you would like to obtain, you can initiate the process of locating and assessing Ann Arbor MI x-ray technician colleges. You will also have to determine if you want 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 price of tuition and ancillary expenditures will be an important factor also. But along with location and cost, what more should you factor in when reviewing schools? Well, you should find out if the colleges are accredited, and if they provide externship or internship programs. To help you find out some of these important details before you make your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you must ask the schools you are looking at.

Are the Radiology Tech Colleges Accredited? The majority of xray technician schools have obtained some form of accreditation, whether regional or national. Even so, it’s still imperative 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). Programs receiving accreditation from the JRCERT have gone through a rigorous assessment of their instructors and educational materials. If the college is online it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance 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 superior education, accreditation will also assist in acquiring financial aid 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 many Ann Arbor MI health facilities will only hire a graduate of an accredited program for entry level positions.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Ask if the Michigan radiology technician programs you are interested in have relationships with local clinics or hospitals for internship programs. Not only are internships a great manner to receive practical experience in a clinical environment, they are additionally a way to fulfill the practical training requirement for the majority of programs. As an ancillary benefit, they may assist graduates and students develop professional connections in the Ann Arbor MI medical community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the radiographer schools you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Ann Arbor MI healthcare employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.

Where is the College Located? For a number of students, the school they select will need to be within driving distance of their Ann Arbor MI residence. Those who have opted to attend classes online obviously will not have to concern themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. One thing to keep in mind is that if you choose to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges often charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges usually charge a higher tuition to those students that don’t reside within their districts.

What are the Class Sizes ? Unless you are the kind of student that prefers to sit far in the rear of the classroom or get lost in the crowd, you will probably prefer a smaller class size. Small classes enable more individual participation and personalized instruction. Ask the Ann Arbor MI colleges you are reviewing what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classrooms. If practical you may want to sit in on one or more classes before making your ultimate decision. This will also give you a chance to talk with several of the students and instructors to get their opinions regarding the radiology technician program also.

Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And last you need to verify that the radiographer college you ultimately choose can offer the class schedule you need. This is particularly essential if you choose to continue working while you attend classes. If you need to schedule night or weekend classes in Ann Arbor MI, make certain that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, verify if that is an option and how many courses or credit hours you would have to carry. Also, find out what the protocol is for making up any classes that you might miss due to illness, work or family obligations.

Why Did You Choose to Be an X-Ray Tech?

When preparing to interview for an X-Ray Tech job, it's advantageous to review questions you could be asked. Among the things that hiring managers frequently ask radiographer prospects is "What made you choose radiography as a career?". What the interviewer is attempting to discover is not just the private reasons you may have for becoming an X-Ray tech, but also what attributes and skills you possess that make you exceptional at your profession. You will undoubtedly be asked questions pertaining specifically to radiography, along with a significant number of general interview questions, so you should prepare a number of approaches about how you want to respond to them. Given that there are several variables that go into choosing a career, you can answer this primary question in a variety of ways. When preparing an answer, try to include the reasons the work interests you along with the strengths you have that make you an outstanding X-Ray tech and the best candidate for the position. Don't attempt to memorize a response, but jot down several concepts and anecdotes that pertain to your personal strengths and experiences. Reviewing sample responses can help you to prepare your own thoughts, and provide ideas of what to include to impress the interviewer.

Select the Ideal Radiology Tech Program near Ann Arbor MI

Picking the appropriate radiology technician school is a critical first step toward launching a satisfying new career furnishing diagnostic medical services to patients. The ideal radiographer must be in good physical condition. X-Ray techs regularly stand for the greater part of the day and move and sometimes lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to pay strict attention to detail and to comply with the safety requirements developed to protect both the patient and the medical team. X-Ray technicians 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 good work environment and provide the best available patient care. As we have discussed in this post, there are a number of questions that you should ask each college you are assessing before making your final selection. This is similarly true whether you participate in an online program or drive to classes on campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each school so you can narrow down your choices before making your final choice. And with the proper education and your motivation to be successful, you can reach your goal to practice as a radiographer in Ann Arbor MI.

Some Background on Ann Arbor Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan and the county seat of Washtenaw County.[5] The 2010 census recorded its population to be 113,934, making it the sixth largest city in Michigan.[6]

Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan. The university shapes Ann Arbor's economy significantly as it employs about 30,000 workers, including about 12,000 in the medical center. The city's economy is also centered on high technology, with several companies drawn to the area by the university's research and development infrastructure, and by its graduates.[7]

Ann Arbor was founded in 1824, named for wives of the village's founders and the stands of Bur Oak trees.[8] The University of Michigan moved from Detroit to Ann Arbor in 1837, and the city grew at a rapid rate in the early to mid-20th century. During the 1960s and 70s, the city gained a reputation as a center for left-wing politics. Ann Arbor became a focal point for political activism, such as opposition to the Vietnam War and support for the legalization of cannabis.

In about 1774, the Potawatomi founded two villages in the area of what is now Ann Arbor.[9]

Ann Arbor was founded in 1824 by land speculators John Allen and Elisha Walker Rumsey. On May 25, 1824, the town plat was registered with Wayne County as "Annarbour;" this represents the earliest known use of the town's name.[10] Allen and Rumsey decided to name it for their wives, both named Ann, and for the stands of Bur Oak in the 640 acres (260 ha) of land they purchased for $800 from the federal government at $1.25 per acre.[8] The local Ojibwa named the settlement kaw-goosh-kaw-nick, after the sound of Allen's sawmill.[11]