Radiography Program Frequently Asked Questions
The art and science of using radiation to provide images of the human body.
An essential member of the health care team who understands radiation and knows how to produce quality diagnostic examinations safely. (slang term: X-ray tech)
3. What is the first step to seeking admission into this program?
APPLY EARLY and be realistic about an entrance year. Once accepted, you can always decline. But, procrastination willk eep you from ever being admitted.
4. How do I apply to the radiography program?
For an application packet, contact Lyndon Withers, @ 828-726-2710, or 726-2700, or 2855 Hickory Blvd., Hudson, North Carolina 28638, and FOLLOW the enclosed instructions. Helpful hints: 1) It is your responsibility to make and MAINTAIN communication with admissions. 2) You may only apply to one curriculum program at a time.
5. After submitting my application, which requirement should I concentrate on satisfying first?
Satisfy the eligibility requirements AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, especially the academic requirements. Students who need developmental courses based on their placement tests cannot be considered for admission until those courses have been successfully completed.
6. How could I spend my time wisely while going through the admission process and/or after I am accepted?
- complete non-radiography (general ed) curriculum courses,
- save money in order to reduce or eliminate employment,
- research the profession of radiography and the duties of a radiographer, and
- become familiar with the Caldwell (Hudson) campus.
7. Does the Radiography Program student capacity fill quickly?
Yes, due to the nation-wide shortage of Radiographers, the great appeal of this medical imaging profession, and the respected reputation of CCC&TI's Radiography Program.
8. Is there an alternate list?
Yes, but alternates are commonly invited into the program during Summer semester IF an accepted student does not show up for the first Radiography Orientation. Helpful hint: The advantage of being an alternative is TIME, i.e. time to complete related courses, time to save money, time to acquire more life experience, time to better prepare for the rigors of an intensive program and profession, etc.
9. What courses should I take in high school to prepare for my radiography education?
General college preparation is recommended, i.e. algebra I, algebra II, geometry, biological sciences, and physical sciences.
10. What is the length of the radiography program?
Five semesters or 22 calendar months with an August entry and a May graduation
16 weeks for Fall or Spring, 8 weeks for Summer
12. How many hours/days per week of radiography education is required?
28 to 40 hours per week/5 days per week. Helpful hint: If you have completed your related coursework, you will have more time to devote to your core curriculum "Radiography" (and make better grades!?).
13. How many "general/related" courses are required?
Six: Basic Anatomy and Physiology, Expository Writing and Lab, Professional Research and Report, General Psychology, Public Speaking, and a Humanities/Fine Arts elective. In addition, the College Student Success course is strongly encouraged.
14. How many "radiography" courses are required?
Eleven classroom/lab courses and five clinical courses
15. Where are the clinical education settings for radiography students?
Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Iredell and Watauga counties
16. What are some of the reasons students are successful in the radiography program?
Strong academic preparation/performance, commitment and good work ethics, few personal problems or outside responsibilities, and an ability to follow instructions
17. How many hours per week can I work at my job?
For your sake (study time), the sake of the patient's safety (concentration level), and the sake of the program (five days per week) you are advised not to work, especially in the first year. However, if you have no choice but to work, no more than 16 hours per week are advised.
18. Is financial aid available?
Yes, financial aid for educational costs may be available in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and work programs.
19. How do I know if I should apply for financial aid?
Apply! CCC&TI encourages prospective students who desire to enroll but face financial problems to apply for assistance through the financial aid office on campus.
20. What program costs can I anticipate?
In addition to tuition costs, FIRST SEMESTER "beginning radiography student" costs include but are not limited to: malpractice & accident insurance, a radiation monitoring device service fee, uniforms purchase, professional membership fees, and radiography textbooks to total approximately $900.00.
Note: Many of your radiography textbooks are used for several semesters.
An Associate in Applied Science degree (A.A.S.) in Radiography
22. Where does a radiographer work?
Public/private hospitals, clinics, physician offices, mobile units, commercial sales, government agencies, public health departments, industries, research/medical laboratories, temporary placement services, and community colleges.
23. What is the beginning salary for an entry-level radiographer?
Locally, a minimum hourly rate of $18.50 or $38,280 annually for first shift positions can be expected. Salaries may be higher for second shift, third shift, or weekend positions or radiographers who are "on-call". Radiographers who work for temporary placement companies or are willing to move can expect even greater financial compensation.
24. How do radiography graduates become certified or registered in their profession?
Potential radiography graduates may make application to sit for a national (not state) certifying computerized examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Upon successful completion of this exam, the radiographer is awarded the credentials "RT(R)". Helpful hint: Students with misdemeanor or felony charges MAY not be allowed to sit for this certifying board. Only the ARRT can make that decision. Upon request, a PRE-application for eligibility can be submitted to the ARRT.
25. Where do the majority of CCC&TI radiography graduates find professional employment?
Locally in Caldwell, Catawba, Burke, Iredell and Watauga counties
26. What continuing education opportunities are available to the certified radiographer?
Updated 4.2.08With continued education, the RT(R) may become certified in Cardiac Catheterization, Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Mammography, Nuclear Medicine, Sonography, and/or Quality Assurance.
