Advanced degrees open the doors for new careers in radiology, including becoming a radiologist assistant.
Most radiologic technologists have an associate's or bachelor's degree. By earning a higher degree in the field of radiology, however, more advanced and even new careers in radiology are becoming available, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. These advanced radiology careers are opening up in administration, education and as radiologist's assistants. They all require a master's degree. In Maryland, a master's degree in radiology and related areas can be earned through the University of Maryland
Administration
An administrator in the field of radiology is responsible for managing personnel and budgeting, and establishing policies and procedures within the radiology department. Administrators are employed in large radiology departments thatare most often found in hospitals and imaging centers.
An administrator in a radiology department typically holds a master's degree in radiology. Additional courses in administration, finances and legal issues are typically included in this degree, according to the Education-Portal.com.
In Maryland, there are many large medical facilities, such as Johns Hopkins Medical facilities and hospital, Baltimore VA Hospital and others with large imaging centers that offer career opportunities for radiology administrators.
Education
With the increasing demand for radiologic technicians and technologists, there are also more opportunities for educators in the field of radiology. Several educational institutions in Maryland offer associate and/or bachelor degrees in radiology, including Montgomery College in Rockville and College of Notre Dame of Maryland in Baltimore. In addition, Johns Hopkins School of Medical Imaging offers a choice of certificate programs in radiology.
To teach in a school of radiology, an educator must have at least a master's degree and some experience in the field of radiology. According to Education-Portal.com, a radiology educator is responsible for developing and evaluating programs and curricula. Educators teach the proper use of radiologic equipment and imaging procedures, as well as radiation protection and laws governing radiologic technology and its uses.
Radiologist Assistant
A radiologist assistant is a relatively new career in the field of radiologic imaging. A radiologist assistant works under the supervision of the radiologist physician. An assistant works directly with patients, reviewing medical histories, and examining and monitoring patients.
A radiologist assistant can administer medication and provide follow-up care and evaluations. Assistants can also perform some invasive procedures and review images, but final interpretation is left up to the radiologist, according to Education-Portal.com.
With the increased demand for imaging procedures, radiologist assistants will find many opportunities for employment in the field, especially in large imaging centers and hospitals such as Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore and other large, regional medical facilities.
Tags: field radiology, master degree, radiologist assistant, imaging centers, Johns Hopkins
