Radiography Technology

This 24-month program seeks to prepare individuals to become competent, entry-level radiographers.

School Credentials

Upon successful completion of the program, the student is a candidate to sit for The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination.

The School of Radiography is accredited by:
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL  60606-3182
P 312.704.5300
mail@jrcert.org
www.jrcert.org

The school is in compliance with the "Standards for an Accredited Educational Program in Radiologic Sciences", JRCERT rev. 2010.

Job Description

The radiographer or X-ray technologist is an essential member of the healthcare team. The radiographer is responsible for accurately positioning the patient and applying only the amount of radiation necessary to produce a quality diagnostic image. The radiographer understands radiation protection and knows how to perform diagnostic examinations safely. This protects both the patient and the radiographer. Radiography is a rewarding career that combines patient care with modern medical technology. The radiographer contributes a special skill to help diagnose injury and disease.

For more information on the typical duties of a Radiographer, visit the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

Salary Schedules

Entry-level salaries vary by geographic regions and by the type of facility in which one is employed, locally this figure ranges from $42,000 - $45,000. Education may be continued in other branches of medical imaging technology such as nuclear medicine, diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound), or radiation therapy. All involve an additional year of course work and are associated with a higher entry-level salary. Technologists may also advance into the educational, management, or marketing segments of the profession.

For more information on salaries and the future job outlook of a Radiographer, visit the Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

Our Mission

To provide East Tennessee with competent and caring radiography graduates dedicated to excellence in the delivery of healthcare.

Our Goals

Graduates / Students will demonstrate entry-level clinical competency in diagnostic imaging procedures will communicate effectively, possess critical thinking skills and model healthcare

Learning Outcomes

The student will learn how to demonstrate appropriate patient care, apply accurate positioning skills, practice radiation protection, employ effective oral communication, employ effective written communication, demonstrate problem-solving skills, adapt standard procedures for non-routine patients, provide confidentiality of patient health information and provide a professional healthcare environment.

Program Effectiveness Data

Educational/Clinical Facilities

Excellent classroom and teaching facilities, along with extensive audiovisual equipment, augment the student's educational experience. The classroom is within the Medical Center's Radiology Department on the main campus. The Radiology Department contains modern equipment for a quality practical experience for the student. The student's clinical education takes place through rotations within the Medical Center's Radiology Department and their outpatient facilities. The majority of the student's clinical rotations are in the Medical Center's Radiology Department, which encompasses 33 rooms of diagnostic and special facilities. A portion of the clinical education takes place in the Medical Center's outpatient facilities, the student will be required to drive up to 15 miles to attend a few clinical rotations. All students have access to the school and department libraries, as well as the hospital research library. The availability of current texts and periodicals aids the student in learning and research.

Program of Study

Clinical experience is coordinated with the courses taught. Each semester presents the student with a combination of class work and the accompanying clinical experience. The school hours are Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

• Course Calendar
• Academic Calendar
• Course Descriptions

Financial Aid

Financial assistance is not currently available. Eligible veterans may apply for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs education (GI Bill) benefits while attending.

Expenses

There is a $50 non-refundable application fee. Total tuition is $6,000 and is not refundable. The first $500 must be paid upon acceptance to school and the remaining balance paid on the first day of attendance. Textbooks for the two-year period will cost approximately $800. Currently there is no graduation fee. Students must provide for uniforms, meals, housing and transportation. In addition, students are encouraged to join and participate in professional societies, such as the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, which require minimal annual student dues.

Special Rotations

During the second year of training, special areas of clinical rotation may include radiotherapy and nuclear medicine.

Advance Standing Policy

Advanced standing is not guaranteed and is limited to space available in the senior class. Students may be placed in advanced standing by making application prior to March 1 and providing documentation of successful completion of a two-year radiography program accredited by JRCERT. The advanced standing student will abide by the same policies and procedures as well as demonstrate the same clinical and didactic competencies as a standard student. These competencies must be completed by the graduation date of the class in which they enter. Tuition will be assessed on a prorate basis. Purchase of required textbooks and uniforms is the responsibility of the student.

Eligibility Requirements for ARRT Certification Exam

Beginning January 1, 2015 (class that is admitted in July 2013), all candidates must possess at least an associate degree in order to be eligible to apply for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Examination. The degree does not have to be in radiologic sciences.

Admissions

The training period officially begins July 1 of each year. To be considered for admission to this program, the applicant must:

1. Be a graduate of an accredited high school or equivalent.
2. Possess a degree from a college or university accredited by United States Department of Education (USDE) or Counsel for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Credits obtained outside the U.S. must be translated by an International Education Credential Evaluation Organization.
3. College course work must include one course in mathematical or logical reasoning, one course in English or oral communications and one course in Anatomy.
4. All applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit scores on the TOEFL exam.
5. Complete and submit an application and a $50 application fee to the school. Make checks payable to: The University of Tennessee Medical Center.
6. Submit two professional letters of reference from past employers or educators.
7. Submit official transcripts from each educational institution you have attended (high school and each college attended).
8. Submit a written summary regarding your activities since you last attended school, how you became interested in radiologic technology, and why you would choose radiologic technology as a career.
9. If requested, report for a scheduled interview as designated by the educational coordinator.

An application is included with this brochure. ALL REQUESTED INFORMATION MUST BE SUBMITTED PRIOR TO MARCH 1 TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE FOLLOWING JULY CLASS. Incomplete or complete applications received after March 1 will NOT be considered.

• Download the Radiography Application
• Selection Process

Conduct and Performance

Specific standards of conduct and performance are observed. These are stated in student handbook, which is provided to the prospective students during the interviewing process. Failure to meet any of the performance criteria, whether academic or disciplinary, may result in suspension or termination from the program.

Download the Radiography Handbook

School of Radiography
University of Tennessee Medical Center
1924 Alcoa Highway
Knoxville, TN  37920
Phone 865.305.9005
Fax 865.305.8946

Inquires may be sent via e-mail to Randy Hembree .