Radiologic Technologist Pathway
Start Your Journey to Becoming a Radiologic Technologist
Begin your career in radiologic technology by choosing one of three educational pathways after earning your High School Diploma or GED. Each option helps prepare you for the ARRT certification exam, which is required for licensure and entry into the field.
Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology
A 2-year degree that prepares you for the ARRT exam and entry-level radiologic technologist positions. This is the most common path into the field.
Bachelor’s Degree in Radiologic Technology
A 4-year program offering advanced coursework and broader career opportunities. Graduates are eligible to sit for the ARRT exam and may have a competitive edge in hiring and specialization.
Certificate Program in Radiologic Technology
Available through select institutions, certificate programs must be completed in addition to an associate or bachelor’s degree in order to meet ARRT eligibility requirements.
Hover over each option to learn more or click to explore in detail.
Radiologic Technology, AS
Full Name
Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology
Experience
No Work Experience Needed (most institutions)
Estimated Tuition
$15,000 - $20,000
Duration
24 Months
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Satisfactory Completion of Pre-requisite Courses in Biology, Human Anatomy & Physiology, Physics, English, Math, Psychology and Introduction to Radiologic Technology
- Minimum Overall Cumulative Grade Point Average (2.0 to 2.75) and/or Grade of C or Higher for Individual Prerequisite Courses and/or Minimum Overall GPA for Rad Tech Prerequisite Courses as Determined by Some Schools
- Observation of ~20 hours or More in a Radiology Department or Employment/Volunteer Experience in Radiology Department at a Hospital Needed for Some Schools
- Passing HESI Admission Assessment or Completion of Allied Health Entrance (TEAS) Test as Determined by Some Institutions
Institutions
- Delgado Community College View
- Fortis College-Baton Rouge View
- Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University View
- Louisiana State University-Alexandria View
- Louisiana State University-Eunice View
- Southern University at Shreveport View
- University of Holy Cross View
Radiologic Technology Certificate
Full Name
Certificate Program in Radiologic Technology
Experience
No Work Experience Needed
Estimated Tuition
~$25,000
Duration
24 Months
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Satisfactory Completion of Pre-requisite Courses in Biology, Human Anatomy & Physiology, English, Math, Psychology, Medical Terminology and Healthcare Ethics
- Minimum Overall Cumulative Grade Point Average (~2.5) for General Education Courses and Grade of C or Higher for Individual Prerequisite Courses
- Volunteer Experience in a Healthcare/Medical Setting (~40 Hours) for Some Institutions
- Passing Allied Health Entrance (TEAS) Test
Institutions
- Baton Rouge General Medical Center School of Nursing & School of Radiologic Technology View
Radiologic Sciences, BS
Full Name
Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences
Experience
No Work Experience Needed (most institutions)
Estimated Tuition
$30,000 - $40,000
Duration
48 Months
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Satisfactory Completion of Pre-requisite Courses in Biology, Human Anatomy & Physiology, Physics, English, Math, Psychology and Introduction to Radiologic Technology. More Pre-requisite Courses Typically Needed than Associate Degree Pre-requisites
- Minimum Overall Cumulative Grade Point Average (2.0 to 3.0) and/or Grade of C or Higher for Individual Prerequisite Courses and/or Minimum Overall GPA for Rad Tech Prerequisite Courses as Determined by Some Schools
- Observation of ~20 hours or More in a Radiology Department or Employment/Volunteer Experience in Radiology Department at a Hospital Needed for Some Schools
- Passing HESI Admission Assessment or Completion of Allied Health Entrance (TEAS) Test as Determined by Some Institutions
- Online Programs Require Students to Submit Documentation of Active ARRT Registry Status
Institutions
- McNeese State University View
- Northwestern State University of Louisiana View
- University of Holy Cross View
- University of Louisiana at Monroe View
Once you’ve completed one of the paths above, you’ll continue to the next step: Certification and Licensure.
Do you have partial college credits/work experience? Try HEAL-Navigator to see what steps you need to take to become a sonographer.
