Radiologic technologists, in the simplest terms, do diagnostic imaging on patients, often through the use of X-rays, the Bureau of Labor statistics (BLS) reports, but also with ultrasound machines, magnetic resonance imaging and other tools. These healthcare professionals have many other responsibilities on the job, including taking care of and maintaining equipment, prepping patients and protecting them from unnecessary radiation exposure, and helping track patient information and maintaining records. Jobs in the radiology field include:
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, these are some of the schools in the Garden State that offer programs in radiology and related subjects.
Students also generally need to complete clinical practicums during their studies, which can provide them with insight into the occupation, as well as hands-on experience working with patients. Students may want to complete a program accredited through the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JFCERT), which accredits radiologic technologist programs anywhere from 18 months to eight years.
This accreditation is important since many states require graduation from an accredited program as part of the process to becoming licensed or certified within that state. Often, students need to pass a state exam or a national one given through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). As the ARRT points out: “Certification is the initial recognition of an individual who satisfies certain standards within a profession.” The ARRT also provides a list of state contacts, including phone numbers and websites, to obtain more information about state licensing requirements. In New Jersey, applicants seeking licensing also need to be at least 18 years of age, submit an application, graduate from a 24-month accredited program and complete the ARRT exam with a minimum passing rate of 75 percent.
Check out the table below to learn about the average annual salaries for radiology professionals, as well as the number of people employed in specific radiology jobs in New Jersey.
| Career | Total Employment | Annual Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians | 610 | 75,330 |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographers | 2,640 | 75,290 |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists | 1,040 | 80,330 |
| Nuclear Medicine Technologists | 580 | 91,790 |
| Radiologic Technologists | 5,760 | 65,170 |