4 answers
Avery
Student
Knoxville, Tennessee
1
Question
Asked
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What dual enrollment classes should I take next semester in order to become an X-Ray Technician?
For my next school year, I plan on pursuing Dual enrollment and was wondering what classes I should take. The courses that I thought would be good for my future career (Radiologist(specifically x-ray technician)) Health Care providers/assistance, Health information management, Biolgy and Physiology, Health services administration, Health sciences, anatomy and physiology, human nutrition, Nursing-Generic-undergraduates, and surgical technology studies. I was wondering what would be the absolute best classes for me to take. And as far as math and chemistry go would I need to take those classes again? Please help.
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4 answers
Stacy Lewis RT (R)(M)(CT)
Radiologic Technologist
1
Answer
Statesville, North Carolina
Updated
Stacy’s Answer
I wouldn’t focus too much on math. Definitely spend time in Anatomy & Physiology (likely a requirement for your program anyway), medical terminology, psychology. You’ll learn radiation physics in your program so a physics course isn’t necessary.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Avery
Deb Weber, MBA, MSRS, RCIS
Lab Assistant
18
Answers
Boise, Idaho
Updated
Deb’s Answer
Physics is #1 in x-ray tech technology - for prerequisites. Otherwise - anything medicine/voluntary/science will make a good impression.
Thank you for the advice, Deb.
Avery
Jeremy Enfinger, BS, ARRT(R), CRT(F)
Clinical Manager
4
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Jeremy’s Answer
If you're looking for an Associates Degree program in Radiologic Technology, stick with the program prerequisites you're looking to apply to. Generally those might include Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, college-level math (including algebra - doesn't need to be calculus or anything advanced), and courses like Physics may make learning Radiation Physics (taught in the program) a little easier to digest.
A couple of other clarifications: A Radiologist is a physician in radiology. An "X-ray Technician" can often mean a limited license depending on the state you live in and/or someone who services equipment. Look for fully-accredited programs in "Radiography" or "Radiologic Technology" if going this route. The title makes all the difference in the world and will ensure you can practice at the peak of your credentials, that you can work in hospital settings, and operate mobile and fluoroscopic equipment right out of school.
Research schools on JRCERT.org for fully-accredited schools
Apply to any accredited programs/colleges that are near you
Complete the program and take your ARRT Registry Examinaion (ARRT.org)
Apply to jobs
A couple of other clarifications: A Radiologist is a physician in radiology. An "X-ray Technician" can often mean a limited license depending on the state you live in and/or someone who services equipment. Look for fully-accredited programs in "Radiography" or "Radiologic Technology" if going this route. The title makes all the difference in the world and will ensure you can practice at the peak of your credentials, that you can work in hospital settings, and operate mobile and fluoroscopic equipment right out of school.
Jeremy recommends the following next steps:
Dn Faiza Shaheen
I'm a student
1
Answer
Taxila, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
Dn Faiza’s Answer
If you're keen on becoming an X-ray technician, it's a great idea to focus on dual enrollment classes that match the prerequisites and basic knowledge required for a radiology program. Here's a friendly piece of advice for you:
1. Science Courses:
Dive into Biology and Anatomy & Physiology: These subjects are key to understanding the human body and how imaging processes work.
Get a taste of Chemistry: Even a basic understanding can be super helpful, as it sets the groundwork for grasping radiological science.
2. Math Courses:
Try your hand at Algebra or other advanced math classes. These are often needed for radiology programs, as you'll be using math for accurate measurements and calculations.
3. Health Sciences:
Consider courses like health care provider assistance, health science, or human nutrition. These can help you get familiar with medical terms and patient care.
4. Technology and Administration:
Studying surgical technology or health information management could provide you with a peek into the technical side of healthcare and the admin work that goes with it.
5. Radiology-Specific Preparation:
If possible, seek out beginner courses in radiological technology or imaging for some early hands-on experience.
Since you're thinking about a career in healthcare, these courses will not just boost your application to an X-ray technician program, but also provide you with basic knowledge. Remember to check the specific prerequisites for the radiology programs you're eyeing, as requirements can differ.
1. Science Courses:
Dive into Biology and Anatomy & Physiology: These subjects are key to understanding the human body and how imaging processes work.
Get a taste of Chemistry: Even a basic understanding can be super helpful, as it sets the groundwork for grasping radiological science.
2. Math Courses:
Try your hand at Algebra or other advanced math classes. These are often needed for radiology programs, as you'll be using math for accurate measurements and calculations.
3. Health Sciences:
Consider courses like health care provider assistance, health science, or human nutrition. These can help you get familiar with medical terms and patient care.
4. Technology and Administration:
Studying surgical technology or health information management could provide you with a peek into the technical side of healthcare and the admin work that goes with it.
5. Radiology-Specific Preparation:
If possible, seek out beginner courses in radiological technology or imaging for some early hands-on experience.
Since you're thinking about a career in healthcare, these courses will not just boost your application to an X-ray technician program, but also provide you with basic knowledge. Remember to check the specific prerequisites for the radiology programs you're eyeing, as requirements can differ.
Thank you, this is beyond helpful! As a highschool student, I've been kind of loss on the whole dual enrollment idea, so I really appreciate this.
Avery