A bachelor's degree in radiological technology gives graduates the educational background and hands-on experience to enter the medical field as a radiological technologist. At some colleges, this degree is called a bachelor's in radiological science. Getting a bachelor's degree rather than an associate degree gives technologists access to higher pay and promotional opportunities within the field.
Accreditation
Colleges offering this degree are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, or JRCERT. Colleges must meet or exceed several JRCERT standards to receive accreditation. Some of these standards include promoting "the synthesis of theory, use of current technology, competent clinical practice and professional values," according to JRCERT's "Standards for an Accredited Educational Program in Radiologic Sciences."
Years in School
Obtaining a bachelor's degree in radiological technology or radiological science takes approximately four years of full-time study. Depending on the specific school's curriculum, students spend one to two years focused on general education courses before advancing to degree-specific courses and clinical experience. Students may choose to take their general education part-time at a community college before transferring to a bachelor's degree program. This path would extend the amount of time it takes to complete the degree.
Tuition
The tuition for a bachelor's degree in radiological technology or radiological science is in line with other bachelor degree costs. The school choice, residency status, and whether or not students take their general education courses at a less-expensive community college all factor into the final tuition cost. Yearly tuition may range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Most schools have financial aid and loan programs available.
Curriculum
Required courses focus on mathematics and the sciences. General education courses may include math, human anatomy and physiology, sociology and writing. Degree-specific courses may include medical ethics, medical terminology, radiographic procedures and patient care.
Employment Prospects
Graduates find employment in hospitals, doctors' offices and outpatient facilities. The University of Pittsburgh, in its program description, states "there is a national shortage of radiographers. And that shortage is expected to continue." The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in the field to increase by about 17 percent from 2008 to 2018. Radiologic technologists earned a median annual wage of $52,210 in May 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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