The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Radiologic and MRI Technologists. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Radiologic and MRI Technologists. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers, perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays, on patients.
(MRI technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create diagnostic images.)
$86,120
$82,680
$78,300
$76,850
$75,170
$47,290
$47,660
$49,770
$51,880
$52,080
Radiologic technologists need at least an associate’s degree in radiologic technology. Most states require radiologic technologists to be licensed or certified, and employers usually require certification even if it’s not state law.
A radiologic program consists of classroom study and clinical work. The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) and the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technology (ARMRIT) both accredit radiography programs.
After finishing the program, you can get certified as a Registered Technologist (RT) from The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
You can advance your career to an MRI technologist after several years of experience. You can also receive certification from the AART.
You will earn an associate’s degree in most radiologic technology programs. They typically take about 2 years to complete.
The AART has 3 requirements to earn certification:
This will vary state by state.
You can specialize as an MRI technologist after several years of experience as a radiologic technologist. The average annual salary is $74,270. The highest is $97,180 in California and the lowest is $59,390 in South Dakota.
Radiologic technologists must follow exact instructions to get the images needed for diagnoses.
Radiologic technologists must understand how to operate complex machinery.
Radiologic technologists may need to calculate and mix the right doses of chemicals used in imaging procedures.
Radiologic technologists work closely with patients who may be in extreme pain or mentally stressed. They must put the patient at ease to get usable images.
Radiologic technologists often work on their feet for long periods during their shift, and they must lift and move patients who need assistance.