Medical Radiologic Technology

Program Information

The Radiology program at Trenholm State provides students with the necessary education to gain entry-level positions in the field of medical imaging as diagnostic radiologic technologists. Students will receive didactic, laboratory, and clinical education in preparation for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination.

Radiologic technologists produce medical images of parts of the human anatomy for use in diagnosing medical problems. Radiologic technologists must follow physicians’ orders and conform to regulations concerning the use of radiation to protect themselves, their patients, and their coworkers from unnecessary exposure. The program has a competitive admissions process.

Occupational Choices 

Employment is projected to grow faster than average, and job opportunities are expected to be favorable. Although hospitals and medical centers remain the primary employers, many new jobs will be found in physician’s offices and diagnostic centers. Health facilities such as these are growing due to the shift toward outpatient care. Radiologic Technologists experienced in multiple diagnostic imaging modalities, such as CT, MR, and mammography, will have the best employment opportunities.

With experience and additional training, staff technologists may qualify for advanced CT, angiography, mammography, and MRI certification. Experienced technologists also may be promoted to supervisor, chief radiologic technologist, and, ultimately, department administrator or director.

Source:  Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Radiologic and MRI Technologists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm

Average Full-Time Wage

The median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $ 65,140 in May 2022. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $47,760, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $97,940. The median annual wage for magnetic resonance imaging technologists was $ 80,090 in May 2022. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $60,530, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $104,850.

Source:  Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Radiologic and MRI Technologists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm

Admission Criteria

Applicants should complete and submit a Radiology program application and have official copies of all college, high school and ACT transcripts sent directly to the College’s Admissions Office.

Minimum admission standards include:  

• A Trenholm State Community College application 
• A Radiology Program application
• Official transcripts from high school and all colleges attended; official GED scores if applicable. A minimum of 2.5 high school GPA (for students without previous college courses) or a cumulative GPA over the last 24 credit hours (for students with previous college courses) is required.
• Eligibility for placement into the following courses: English 101, Math 100, and Biology 201.
• ACT test score greater than or equal to 18.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
• A completed essential eligibility criteria form.
• Incomplete application packages submitted will not be considered. See the Program Application Packet on the program web page at:  https://www.trenholmstate.edu/programs/allied-health-division/radiology-medical-radiologic-technology/

NOTE:   The college requires the successful completion of BIO 103 (General Biology) before a student is eligible to take BIO 201 (Human Anatomy & Physiology I).

Students accepted into the Radiology program must meet the following requirements, which will be completed at the student’s expense prior to and throughout enrollment in the program:

1. Verification of absence of drug and alcohol use by participation in random and scheduled drug/alcohol testing at the student’s expense.
2. Undergo a background screening.
3. Provide proof of all vaccinations designated by the program.
4. Submit proof of completed CPR for Healthcare Providers course.
5. Undergo a student physical administered by a physician.
6. Adhere to policies of affiliated clinical affiliates.

Admission to the Radiology 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.

If the number of eligible applicants exceeds the space available to new enrollees, applicants are ranked using a point system based on ACT Exam scores, with additional points given for required general education classes completed with a “C” or higher. See Ranking Form on the program webpage at: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.trenholmstate.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Radiology_Program_Ranking_Form1.pdf

Awards Available

Associate of Applied Science
Medical Radiologic Technology

Program Contact

Laurie Burnett
Program Coordinator/Instructor
334-420-4342
Location:  Trenholm Campus - Bldg. H

The College regularly evaluates student learning outcomes for each program as part of ongoing planning and evaluation.

Estimated Program Length & Cost *

* Tax not included.  Prices are subject to change without prior notice; the cost of books may vary considerably among suppliers.  The cost of general education books is in addition to the total listed above.  The length of the program is based on full-time status of 12-15 credit hours per term.  Enrollment in transitional-level general education courses will alter the length of the program.