X-ray Tech Schools in Utah - W-Radiology (2023)

• Individuals pursuing a career as X-ray technicians or radiologic technologists may enroll in several radiology-related courses and training programs in Utah.
• Utah does not require a state certification credential for radiologic science professionals⁽¹⁾. However, medical institutions usually employ ARRT-certified radiologic technologists.
• As of May 2022, X-ray technicians in Utah have an estimated annual salary of $57,569⁽²⁾. X-ray technicians with more than ten years of experience may earn $68,743 annually.

List of X-ray Technician Schools in Utah

Several educational institutions in Utah provide medical imaging degree programs to help people get jobs as X-ray technicians or radiologic technologists (rad techs) in radiology or imaging-related fields. A few of these institutions are as follows:

• Utah Tech University
  225 South 700 East, St. George, UT 84770
  (435) 879-4840

• Salt Lake Community College (Jordan Campus)
  Division of Allied Health, West Jordan, UT 84088-8818
  (801) 957-6198

• University of Utah School of Medicine
  30 N 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
  (801) 581-7553

• Weber State University (School of Radiologic Sciences)
  Ogden, Utah 84408
  1-801-626-6000

List of Programs

The coursework, credits, and duration of radiology school for X-ray technicians and radiologic technologists differ. Moreover, students can apply to certificate, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree programs.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiation therapy, mammography, computed tomography (CT), sonography, and nuclear medicine are all potential specialties in radiologic technology.

Radiologic science or radiology technology programs may focus on the following course subjects:

• Human anatomy, physiology, and pathology related to radiology
• Radiographic pathology
• Patient care and medical assisting
• Radiation physics
• Health science
• Radiation therapy treatment planning and dosimetry
• Medical imaging procedures

In addition, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is the accreditation organization for various radiography and diagnostic radiology programs.

JRCERT-accredited higher education institutions provide programs with varying effectiveness rates, such as completion rates, credential exam pass rates, and job placement rates.

Utah Tech University

The Utah Tech University offers a two-year, full-time medical radiography program that prepares aspirants to work in a healthcare context as competent entry-level radiographers⁽³⁾. This program awards graduates an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.

Students can attain professional competency through the program’s practical and theoretical training, including instructional and clinical practice at affiliated medical centers, clinics, and physicians’ offices.

The program is competency-based and incorporates the Curriculum Guide of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Moreover, graduates are eligible to apply for certification with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT).

Furthermore, candidates who complete the certificate program and pass the certification exam can apply for licensure in Utah through the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

The school’s program has accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) – Jordan Campus

The SLCC Radiologic Technology program’s coursework prepares students for careers in radiology by equipping them with the knowledge and abilities necessary to implement radiologic technology techniques competently.

The school’s program above awards an AAS degree that allows aspiring radiology techs to sit for the ARRT examination in radiology, leading to National ARRT Certification and State Licensure⁽⁴⁾.

Moreover, the RT program is JRCERT-accredited⁽⁵⁾.

University of Utah School of Medicine

Imaging specialty fellowships, resident training, medical student rotations, and technologist training are available at the University of Utah School of Medicine.

The school’s radiologic technology education includes program offerings for a potential⁽⁶⁾

• Mammographer
• Ultrasonographer
• Nuclear medicine technologist
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologist
• Interventional radiology technologists
• Computed Tomography (CT)

Weber State University

Weber State University’s School of Radiologic Sciences offers the following program types for individuals interested in working as medical imaging professionals:

• Associate’s degree in Radiography or Associate of Applied Science in Radiography
• Bachelor of Science in:

• • Advanced Radiologic Sciences
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Radiation therapy

Upon completing the AAS in Radiography, the student can become eligible to take the ARRT national registry test.

X-ray Technician Program vs. Radiology Technologist Program

Depending on the school, radiology curricula can vary. However, the education requirements for radiologic technologists and X-ray technicians are similar⁽⁷⁾.

One essential distinction is that radiologic technology programs often require two years to complete. These courses include hours of selected fieldwork, including clinical rounds and patient care, and pursuing a career in a medical environment that utilizes radiographic applications.

X-ray technician degree programs can last about nine months to two years, depending on the university or college.

A radiology qualification is also necessary for full and entry-level X-ray technician employment.

Moreover, certain states may require candidates to pass additional licensing tests before working as radiologic technologists. This condition can delay an individual becoming an X-ray technician for months or years.

What Is an X-ray Technician?

Medical imaging technicians use X-ray machines to take pictures of patients’ biological systems. These images are helpful for radiologists when developing treatment plans for specific medical diseases and injuries.

Technicians may help patients relax throughout X-ray procedures and ensure that they receive the minimal radiation exposure required to develop high-quality images.

The phrases “X-ray tech” and “X-ray technologist” are interchangeable and often mean the same⁽⁸⁾.

Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) includes medical X-ray imaging as a radiologic technology specialty⁽⁹⁾.

Because the terms “radiologic technician” and “radiology technologist” commonly refer to the same occupation, universities, colleges, and medical facilities may use these phrases interchangeably⁽¹⁰⁾. Other similar medical terms include:

• Radiology tech
• Radiologic tech
• Radiographer⁽¹¹⁾

How to Become a Radiology Technologist in Utah

Radiologic technologists must satisfy specific education prerequisites and earn a license to practice in Utah.

Accreditation and Certification

As with other healthcare occupations, candidates must possess a high school diploma. Then they should enroll in a JRCERT-accredited radiologic technology program.

Many radiologic techs at the entry-level have completed a degree program. On the other hand, certification programs can provide interested parties with the appropriate training.

After completing the curriculum, radiology tech graduates must pass the ARRT exam to register as radiologic technologists or radiology technicians.

The ARRT requires its members to renew all relevant credentials every two years.

Except for the Utah Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography exam, there is no state licensure exam for radiologic science practitioners in Utah. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board requires other specialists to take the national examination.

Licensure conditions may involve completing a JRCERT–accredited program, a registration fee, and ARRT credentials.

Accreditation is a process that extends to institutions, programs, and even departments and produces paperwork attesting to the achievement of specified minimum requirements.

Moreover, accreditation of universities and colleges is the responsibility of state and regional authorities, and it guarantees that certified institutions meet particular educational criteria. This process is the foundation for establishing the value of diplomas and credits transferred from one school to another.

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is an autonomous credentialing organization that oversees program accreditation in radiologic technology and radiation therapy technology.

The Joint Review Committee in Nuclear Medicine Technology is the certifying body for nuclear medicine (JRCNMT). For individuals to become eligible for the national certification examination, their chosen program must have an accreditation award or approval from the national certification board, such as the following⁽¹²⁾:

• Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB)
• American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
• American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS)

Licensure

Individual state requirements govern licensing. This process refers to granting “official approval” and is a state government function.

The Division of Professional Licensure in Utah determines the requirements for earning a license. A state license may not be transferable or acceptable to another state⁽¹³⁾.

Individuals need to research the requirements of the new state. For instance, a limited practical technician (a permit to practice radiologic technology under limited circumstances) is acceptable in Utah.

Furthermore, licensure often requires individuals to earn national certification.

Career Opportunities

Six hospitals in Utah have fulfilled the U.S. News and World Report requirements for outstanding performance⁽¹⁴⁾. The chief employers of radiologic technology professionals are hospitals and medical centers with radiology departments.

• Delta Community Hospital
  126 South White Sage Avenue Delta, UT 84624
  (435) 864-5591
• Intermountain Medical Center
  5121 South Cottonwood Street Murray, UT 84157
  (801) 507-7000
• LDS Hospital
  Eighth Avenue and ‘C’ Street Salt Lake City, UT 84143-0001
  (801) 408-1100
• McKay-Dee Hospital Center
  4401 Harrison Boulevard Ogden, UT 84403
  (801) 387-2800
• Orem Community Hospital
  331 North 400 West Orem, UT 84057
  (801) 714-3307
• Timpanogos Regional Hospital
  750 West 800 North Orem, UT 84059-3660
  (801) 714-6000
• University of Utah Hospital
  50 North Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132-0002
  (801) 581-2121
• Utah Valley Hospital
  1034 North 500 West Provo, UT 84604-3337
  (801) 357-7850

Salary for X-ray Technicians In Utah

As of May 22, 2022, the estimated annual salary for an X-ray technician in Utah is $57,569⁽¹⁵⁾. This average salary is 12% below the national average.

X-ray techs with more than ten years of experience may earn up to $68,743 annually⁽¹⁶⁾.

FAQ

1. What is a radiology technician?

Radiology technicians evaluate patients for tests, properly position them, operate the equipment, and apply fundamental technical knowledge and skills to reduce the patient’s radiation exposure.

Medical imaging is necessary for radiology to detect illnesses and generate patient treatment regimens.

Specific physicians, such as radiologists, order radiology exams to clarify a suspected diagnosis based on symptoms, diagnostic testing (such as labs and ECGs), and the patient’s background.

2. Where do radiology technicians work?

Hospitals employ many radiographers. However, surgical facilities, pain treatment centers, orthopedic clinics, and outpatient imaging centers are also where radiology technicians can operate.

The everyday activities of radiology technicians can vary based on where they work. For instance, radiologic technologists use portable devices to take the X-ray scans of patients in hospitals’ imaging departments or emergency departments⁽¹⁷⁾.

On the other hand, static images may be helpful to radiology technicians at an orthopedic facility or an outpatient imaging facility to X-ray shattered and mending bones and abdominal or chest anatomy.

3. What skills do radiologic techs need?

Competent radiologic technologists have outstanding critical thinking abilities and empathy.

These practitioners can interact intelligently with both medical personnel and patients. Compassion for people going through difficult circumstances is prevalent among radiologic technologists.

4. Is it difficult to become an X-ray tech?

The difficulty of pursuing an X-ray technician job is dependent on the institution’s program content and teaching strategy.

The ability of a student to learn the material and adapt it in a clinical context can also determine how quickly or slowly they progress as technicians.

It may not be as challenging as many people believe in transitioning from high school to a career as a radiology technician.

There are no formal mathematics classes in radiologic technology programs. However, radiology technicians must be able to solve simple algebraic problems and grasp elementary mathematical equations.

FDA Recommendations

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) recommends that medical imaging specialists consider two standards for radiation protection⁽¹⁸⁾.

1. Optimization: Radiation exposure should be minimal while still producing high-quality images for diagnostic or treatment applications. This goal may necessitate the use of X-ray technicians‘ mathematics and critical-thinking abilities.
2. Justification: The X-ray procedure must undergo regular reviews and assessments to guarantee that it benefits patients more than harms them. As a result, ionizing radiation evaluations are necessary to diagnose a medical problem, treat an illness, or provide treatment choices.

A radiation dosage optimization happens when professionals create high-quality images with the slightest radiation dose necessary for clinical purposes.

Any X-ray examination, operation, or medical imaging process can benefit from a facility’s quality assurance (QA) program, which can assist in limiting radiation exposure.

The patient’s size is a crucial component in optimization⁽¹⁹⁾. For instance, larger patients require a higher radiation dose than smaller patients to create images of equivalent quality.

Routine and systematic radiation dose tracking and the implementation of follow-up activities are vital factors of a QA program when radiation levels are exceptionally high (or low).

Moreover, “diagnostic reference levels” (DRLs) or simply “reference levels” are necessary for interventional fluoroscopy exams (a form of X-ray medical imaging)⁽²⁰⁾. These criteria depend on professional organizations and national, state, regional, or municipal government developments.

DRLs are not dose restrictions or benchmarks. Instead, these metrics function as a guide to effective practice without guaranteeing ideal outcomes.

Poor image quality or inadequate diagnostic information may result from radiation dosages that are significantly lower than usual. The FDA encourages DRL development by establishing nationwide dose registers.

Because imaging processes and patient populations vary by country and location, each country or region should establish its own DRLs.

1. Become a Radiologic Professional in Utah
   https://radiologyed.org/schools/utah/
2. X-ray Technician salary in Utah
   https://www.indeed.com/career/x%20ray-technician/salaries/UT
3. Medical Radiography, AAS
   https://catalog.utahtech.edu/programs/healthcare-diagnostics-and-therapeutics/medical-radiography-aas/#text
4. Radiologic Technology
   http://www.slcc.edu/radtech/hs-rad-tech_onesheet_3-5-21.pdf
5. Ibid.
6. Radiologic Technologist
   https://medicine.utah.edu/radiology/education/technologist
7. Differences Between Radiologic Technicians and X-Ray Techs
   https://work.chron.com/differences-between-radiologic-technicians-xray-techs-25424.html
8. 5 Differences Between RT (Radiologic Technologist) and LMRT (Limited Medical Radiologic Technologist)
   https://www.chcp.edu/blog/5-differences-between-rt-and-lmrt/
9. What Radiologic and MRI Technologists Do
   https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm#tab-2
10. What’s the Difference Between a Technician and Technologist in Radiology?
    https://www.cambridgehealth.edu/blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-technician-and-technologist-in-radiology/
11. What Radiologic and MRI Technologists Do
    https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm#tab-2
12. Accreditation, Certification, and Licensure
    https://medicine.utah.edu/radiology/education/technologist/accreditation
13. Ibid.
14. Become a Radiologic Professional in Utah
    https://radiologyed.org/schools/utah/
15. X-ray Technician salary in Utah
    https://www.indeed.com/career/x%20ray-technician/salaries/UT
16. Ibid.
17. Everything You Need to Know About a Career as a Radiologic Technologist
    https://www.herzing.edu/blog/everything-you-need-know-about-career-radiologic-technologist
18. Medical X-ray Imaging
    https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/medical-imaging/medical-x-ray-imaging#principles
19. Ibid.
20. Ibid.