Diagnostic Imaging

Dr. James Malone, PhD, RT(R) (CT), Program Director
256.352.8309
james.malone@wallacestate.edu

Associate in Applied Science Degree (6 semesters)

At a Glance

Radiologic technologists are healthcare professionals who perform diagnostic imaging examinations. Images are created using x-rays that pass through the body. They are educated in anatomy, patient positioning, examination techniques, equipment protocols, radiation safety and protection, and basic patient care. Radiologic technologists perform a variety of diagnostic x-ray examinations of the skeletal system, chest, and abdomen. They may also administer contrast media to visualize anatomy in the body such as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Radiologic technologists work closely with radiologists, the physicians who interpret medical images to either diagnose or rule out disease or injury. Radiologic technologists may have the opportunity to specialize in specific imaging modalities, such as bone densitometry, computed tomography (CT), mammography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine, or sonography

With the advancement of technology and as the number of aging Americans increases, the demand for diagnostic imaging has grown. Employment opportunities for qualified professionals to provide medical imaging are available nationwide in a variety of settings such as hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics (for example, orthopedics).

Program Description

The program is designed to provide academic and clinical training in the diagnostic imaging profession. Students will begin to participate in clinical rotations beginning the first semester of the program and will be assigned hours consistent with day shift for the majority of their training. Beginning the third semester, students will be required to complete an evening shift rotation consistent with 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Students are required to travel to different locations during the clinical education phase. Graduation requirements must be met within three (3) years following entry into the program.

The Diagnostic Imaging program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) located at 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606 (www.jrcert.org). Upon graduating from a program accredited by JRCERT, students are eligible to apply to take the national registry examination of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). By successfully passing the national registry exam, you will be awarded the credential, RT(R), registered technologist (radiography).

Admission Requirements

1. Unconditional admission to the college – College application must be submitted by the program application deadline of June 1.
2. Student must be in good standing with the college.
3. Meet all general admission requirements of WSCC.
4. Receipt of complete program applications is accepted between March 1 and June 1 for Fall entry. Applications received after the deadline will be considered on a space available basis. 
5. The RAD program online application is located on the program’s webpage at www.wallacestate.edu/programs/health-division. The online application instructions are under the Application to Program tab. All applicants are required to upload all necessary documentation for consideration. 
6. Official transcripts from each college attended must be provided to the Admissions Office and all unofficial transcripts must be uploaded.
7. A minimum of 19 ACT composite score (National or Residual) is required for admission consideration. Proof of the score must be uploaded.
8. Student must meet the essential functions and technical standards required for the program as documented on the required WSCC physical form at www.wallacestate.edu/programs/health-division and see Physical Form Essential Functions. 
9. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. (Alabama Regulations for Control of Radiation Rule 420-3-03(6), “Occupational Radiation Dose Limits:, states that all occupational workers employing ionizing radiation, must be at least 18 years of age).
10. Attain a minimum GPA of 2.5 or greater on a 4.0 scale with a grade of “C” or better on all general required pre-Diagnostic Imaging courses only. 

NOTE: It is the responsibility of each applicant to ensure that all classes from other institutions have been transferred and to ensure that their application is complete. Admission to the Diagnostic Imaging Program is competitive, and the number of students is limited by the number of faculty and clinical facilities available. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.

General Qualifications for ARRT Certification

Students must satisfy general qualifications for certification in accordance with The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) guidelines. The ARRT is the board that administers the national certification examination upon completion of an accredited Radiologic Technology Program. A candidate for certification by the ARRT must meet the ethics education and examination requirements as described in The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Rules and Regulations and ARRT Standards of Ethics. In order to take this examination, you must be of good moral character. Generally, the conviction of a felony or any other offense or misdemeanor, or a felony involving moral depravity indicates a lack of good moral character for ARRT purposes. Please contact the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (651) 687-0048 for advisement if the previous statement applies.

Eligible candidates are allowed three attempts within three years to pass the ARRT exam. After three unsuccessful attempts or expiration of the three-year limit, the individual is no longer eligible to take the exam. The individual must reapply to the Diagnostic Imaging program, and, if accepted, complete the entire program.

Selection and Notification

1. The DI program admits a beginning class annually fall semester only.
2. ALL courses must be completed prior to the application deadline of June 1. The only exception is BIO 202; it must be completed during the summer semester prior to admission to the program.  Those that have it completed by the application deadline will receive one point added to their ranking score.
3. Candidates are ranked for admission on the basis of ACT scores, weighted GPA of pre-DI courses (GPA x 9) and completion of admission requirements. In the event of a tie of ranking score, in order to fill all available seats, the following criteria will be used as the tiebreaker to determine student acceptance into the program: completion of all classes, cumulative GPA, ACT Math subset score, and date application was received.
4. Program applications will be reviewed for completion of program admission requirements. Written notification of program acceptance status will be sent to each applicant via information supplied on the program application. 
5. Following acceptance into the program, students must respond confirming their intent to enroll by using the internet link provided on their letter, by the deadline indicated on the letter. A student who fails to respond will forfeit his/her place in the class.

Program Expectations

Students admitted into the Diagnostic Imaging program are expected to comply with the Health Science Program Regulations and Expectations as published in the Programs of Study section of the Wallace State College Catalog.

Required Competencies

Candidates for certification are required to meet the Professional Requirements specified in the ARRT Rules and Regulations. Students may visit www.arrt.org to see a complete list of required competencies.

Upon Admission

1. Students accepted into the program must attend the mandatory orientation session. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture of their place in the class.
2. Upon acceptance into the Diagnostic Imaging Program, the student must submit:
   1. A recent certificate of good health from a physician, verifying that the student is in good physical and mental health and is able to perform the duties and activities required of Radiologic Technologists.
   2. Mantoux TB skin test results and complete immunization documentation must be included on the form.
   3. Evidence of having received the second of three Hepatitis B vaccinations or completion of the series.
   4. Provide proof of health insurance coverage.
   5. Provide proof of CPR certification. Online CPR classes will not be accepted.

Admission to the Diagnostic Imaging program shall be provisional depending upon the student’s ability to pass an initial drug screen and background check. Students may be subjected to random drug testing during the length of the program. Students are required to carry liability, accident, and medical insurance for the duration of program enrollment. Students cannot begin clinical rotations until copies of the health certificate, Hepatitis immunization status, CPR certification and health insurance card are on file. Liability and accident insurance are available through the college. Students should provide copies of the above documents at the mandatory orientation.

Progression

Uninterrupted progression through the Diagnostic Imaging program is required. Any student whose progression is interrupted must reapply for readmission. If progression is interrupted for any reason, the student may only be readmitted one time. Any changes in the curriculum or admission procedures will be applicable upon the student’s readmission. Students selected for the Diagnostic Imaging program must meet the following criteria:

1. Progress through all Diagnostic Imaging courses in the sequence specified by the program faculty.
2. Maintain a minimum grade of 75% or higher in the major required courses. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the program.
3. Maintain a 2.5 cumulative GPA in all coursework.
4. Maintain the ability to meet the Essential Functions.
5. Successfully complete the program within 26 months from the initial semester of RAD courses.
6. Maintain Current CPR at the health care provider level.
7. Abide by the policies, procedures, and rules of behavior of the college and the Diagnostic Imaging program.
8. Abide by the policies, procedures, and rules of behavior of the clinical agencies.
9. Submit completed medical forms by required deadlines. 
10. Students are required to pass the Diagnostic Imaging Exit Exam in RAD 227. Failure to pass the exit exam will result in a failing grade for RAD 227, regardless of other grades or competencies achieved.

Readmission to Program

Students who withdraw or are dismissed from the program must apply for re-admission. No preferential consideration is given to prior students for re-admission. Students will be readmitted ONE time only.

Transfer Policy

1. Unconditional admission to the college with clear academic status.
2. Ability to meet and comply with standards and policies in the current College Catalog and Student Handbook.
3. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
4. No longer than 26 months elapsing from the initial admission term to the date of graduation.
5. Official transcripts verifying a minimum grade of “C” earned on courses which represent collegiate course work relevant to the degree, with course content and level of instruction resulting in student competencies at least equivalent for those matriculating students. Alabama Community College System Standardized Radiologic Technology Curriculum courses will be transferred without review of the course syllabus. Verification of knowledge and/or skills may be required.
6. Eligibility to return to previous Radiologic Technology program in good standing.  Students who do not progress through another radiography program due to grades or disciplinary action are not eligible for transfer. In this situation, a student must apply to the program, and if accepted, must repeat all previous courses. 
7. All students transferring into the program must prove competency in all previous coursework as prescribed by the program. If a student cannot prove competency, the request for admission will be denied and the student must apply to the program, and if accepted, must repeat all previous courses.
8. Completion of 25 percent of total required hours for the A.A.S. Degree in Radiologic Technology at an institution conferring degree.

Career Path 

Upon completion of the program, candidates should take the registry and become a Registered Radiologic Technologist. Career opportunities include hospitals, outpatient imaging centers and physician’s offices.

There are advanced imaging options available to Registered Radiologic Technologists, including but not limited to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT). For additional information concerning other areas of specializations, go to www.arrt.org.

The median annual wage for Radiologic technologists was $83,740 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $61,470, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $112,420. Depending on area of specialization. Radiologic technologists may have flexible work schedules, including part-time or evenings, giving time for family, friends, school, or other activities.