High School:
* Strong science foundation: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Anatomy & Physiology (if offered) are crucial. Good grades in these are essential for college admission and success in the program.
* Math: Algebra and possibly higher-level math (depending on college requirements). A good grasp of math is helpful for understanding physics concepts related to radiation.
* Other helpful courses: Health Occupations classes (if available), English (for strong communication skills), and possibly computer science (for learning about image processing technologies).
College:
You'll need to complete an accredited Radiologic Technology program, typically an Associate's degree (A.S.) or a Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Radiologic Technology. These programs include a significant amount of clinical experience in addition to classroom learning. The curriculum will cover:
* Radiation Physics: The fundamental principles of radiation, how it interacts with the body, and radiation safety.
* Radiographic Procedures: Detailed instruction and hands-on practice in performing various X-ray examinations (chest X-rays, extremities, etc.).
* Radiation Protection: Safe handling of ionizing radiation and minimizing patient and technician exposure. This includes learning about radiation safety regulations and protocols.
* Imaging Principles: Understanding how different imaging modalities (X-ray, CT, MRI, Fluoroscopy) work and how to interpret basic images.
* Anatomy & Physiology: In-depth study of the human body's structure and function, essential for accurate image interpretation and patient positioning.
* Patient Care: Communication, patient interaction, medical terminology, and ethical considerations in patient care.
* Medical Imaging Informatics: Learning about Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and other digital imaging technologies.
* Clinical Rotations: A significant portion of the program involves supervised clinical experience in various healthcare settings (hospitals, clinics). This hands-on training allows you to practice the skills learned in the classroom.
After Graduation:
After graduating from an accredited program, you'll need to pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination to become a registered radiologic technologist (RT). This is a national certification and is required for employment in most settings.
In summary, a strong science background in high school lays the groundwork for success in a rigorous Radiologic Technology program in college, which leads to the necessary certification for a career as a Radiologic Technologist. Remember that the specific courses and program requirements may vary slightly between institutions, so check with the colleges you're interested in attending.