What is the career path for radiology technician?
Mia Smith
Published Mar 02, 2026
What is the career path for radiology technician?
Career Opportunities: Career opportunities are available in hospitals, imaging centers, educational institutions, private medical offices, clinical research labs, sales and marketing. Sonographers may work in departments of radiology, cardiology, obstetrics, and vascular imaging.
What are the opportunities for advancement for a radiologist?
Some radiographers go on to instruct and teach in radiologic technology schools, in a hospital-based setting or at a community college or university. With experience, Radiologic Technologists also can advance to supervisory positions, such as chief technologist, department administrator or director.
Which radiology tech specialty makes the most money?
Radiation oncologists and radiologists earn the highest average salaries in this field.
Can you go from radiology tech to radiologist?
Many rad techs pursue radiology specialties, such as mammography. Others decide to further their career by returning to school to become a radiologist. Though the educational requirements differ, Radabaugh says both careers require time and effort for better patient outcomes.
Is becoming a radiology tech hard?
Radiologic Technologists use science and art to create images, sometimes very difficult to obtain. It’s challenging to work with the patient to get the best images possible. You’ll be in procedures with Radiologists. You’ll be in the OR with surgeons.
Can you move up from a radiology tech?
Some RT professionals choose to pursue ultrasound, while others go into nuclear medicine. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree can open up opportunities in more advanced fields or leadership and management positions. Consider furthering your education with a Diagnostic Medical Imaging program.
Do radiology techs start IVs?
We don’t have to deal with blood. If there is a trauma situation of any kind, we will be involved, either in the emergency room, surgery, or both. Those of us who do CT scans or MRIs will also start IVs.
Who makes more respiratory therapist or radiology tech?
Diagnostic medical sonographers brought home a median salary of $74,320 per year in May 2019, according to the BLS for diagnostic medical sonographers, also called ultrasound technicians, about $13,000 more per year than the median pay for respiratory therapists.
Do MRI techs start IVs?
What’s the difference between a radiology tech and a radiologist?
A radiologist is a doctor who interprets medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, diagnoses patients and recommends treatment. A radiologic technologist is typically supervised by a radiologist and supports the doctor and other members of the healthcare team by performing the diagnostic imaging procedures.
How do I become an ARRT certified radiologic technologist?
Apply for and attend an accredited undergraduate radiologic technology program (2-4 years). Radiologic technologists may earn either an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree to be eligible for certification from the ARRT. As of January 1, 2015, all applicants for ARRT certification in Radiography,…
What percentage of Radiologic Technologists have a graduate degree?
Interestingly, only 6 percent of technologists have a graduate degree. Compared to other professions that require just two years of school, radiologic technologists can make a good living. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows the median hourly wage in the US is$29.59, which equates to an annual salary of $64,840 (BLS May 2020).
How do I get experience in Radiologic Technology?
Experience in radiologic technology is often desired by employers. Employees who exhibit competence in their current area of specialization may be trained on the job. Most employers require certification from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Specific requirements for certification may be obtained by contacting:
What is a career ladder program?
A career ladder program is a formal management tool used not only bymanagers looking to recognize and retain employees, but also by employeesseeking growth opportunities. A career ladder program involves careful development, frequent and effec-tive communication during implementation, and activities focused onmeasuring program effectiveness.