Exploring Radiologic Sciences Programs at Dallas College

Dallas College offers comprehensive Radiologic Sciences programs designed to prepare students for careers as radiologic technologists and specialists. These programs provide a strong foundation in anatomy, physics, radiation safety, communication, and computer skills, tailored to the specific demands of the field. A key component of the training involves clinical rotations, offering hands-on experience in patient care and technical proficiency. Successful completion of coursework, labs, and clinical rotations, with a grade of C or above, leads to a certificate in the chosen specialization.

Radiologic Technology: A Foundation for Specialization

Dallas College offers radiologic technologist associate degree programs at Brookhaven and El Centro campuses, which form the basis for a career in radiography and further specialization. This program prepares students to become professional radiologic technologists, using radiation to create internal images of patients that physicians use for diagnosis. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and to become Certified Medical Radiologic Technologists licensed by the Texas Medical Board. Completing the program and passing the ARRT examination allows graduates to pursue further education in other radiologic specialties.

Admission to the Radiologic Sciences Program

Students interested in the Dallas College Radiologic Sciences program at Brookhaven Campus must meet specific criteria. They need to be admitted to Dallas College, complete five prerequisite courses with a GPA of 2.75 or higher, and earn a “B” or higher in SCIT 1407 or BIOL 2401. Additionally, applicants must watch an online information session and submit a comprehensive application packet during the designated filing period to the Dallas College Brookhaven Campus Radiologic Sciences office.

Advanced Technical Certificates

For technologists looking to specialize, Dallas College offers advanced technical certificates in Computed Tomography (CT), Vascular Interventional Radiography (VIR), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). These programs are designed for ARRT technologists seeking to expand their skills and knowledge in specific imaging modalities.

Computed Tomography (CT) Certificate

The Computed Tomography certificate program focuses on training ARRT technologists to use radiation to produce cross-sectional images of patients. This program is a single 16-week semester offered in both the Fall and Spring semesters.

Vascular Interventional Radiography (VIR) Certificate

The Vascular Interventional certificate program trains ARRT technologists in the use of radiation and advanced patient care skills to produce vascular images. This 20-week program includes class time at the Brookhaven Campus in the VIR Suite, which features a lab simulation using a Robotic Phantom. The program also includes Saturday hours during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certificate

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging Advanced Technical certificate focuses on training ARRT technologists to produce cross-sectional and 3D images of patients. This three-semester program begins each Spring and includes class and lab time in a dedicated, onsite MRI trailer, which provides a real MRI scanning environment for student learning.

MRI Program Details

The MRI program includes class and lab time in a dedicated, onsite MRI trailer (1.5-ton MRI scanning suite), which is an actual MRI scanning environment for student lab learning time. This occurs during the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters.

Course Sequence

The course sequence for the Advanced Technical Certificate in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology is designed to help students earn their ATC. Note that this is an example course sequence and does not represent a contract or guarantee course availability. Students must earn at least 25% of the credit hours required for graduation through instruction by Dallas College.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Certificate Option

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging Certificate Option is available for students holding at least an Associate Degree in a designated allied health field or a B.S. degree with a major in a science discipline. Potential students will be considered on an individual basis to determine if they have an adequate background in anatomy and physiology, math, and physics. Current Registry in Radiography, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Radiation Therapy, Computerized Technology, Interventional Radiology, and Sonography is also required. Upon completion, a certificate will be awarded.

Read also: DCS Tuition Information

Career Opportunities in MRI

MRI technologists perform examinations using magnetism and radio frequency to visualize internal organs such as the heart, abdominal organs, and brain. MRI can also visualize bony structures such as the spine, skull, and extremities. Graduates will be eligible to take the MRI Registry Exam offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Eligibility for MRI Program

Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including holding an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Radiography, Nuclear Medicine, Radiation Therapy, or Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and possessing a current registry/certification credential in that healthcare area. Technologists who have earned a hospital-based certificate in Radiography, hold a current ARRT certification, and who have completed a previous degree or can demonstrate junior-level standing are also eligible.

Essential Skills for Radiologic Technologists

Beyond technical expertise, success in radiologic technology requires a combination of interpersonal and critical thinking skills. These include:

Customer service and communication skills: The ability to work directly with the public and effectively communicate with patients is crucial.
Information gathering and analysis: Gathering and interpreting information from multiple sources is essential for accurate diagnoses.
Multitasking: The ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously is important in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Attention to detail: Accuracy and precision are critical when performing imaging procedures.

Working in healthcare can be both challenging and rewarding.

Career Outlook and Salary

The starting salary for a radiologic technologist in Dallas and north Texas is approximately $37,000, with an anticipated job growth of 8% over the next three years.

Important Note

It is important to note that programs in radiologic technology may lead to occupational licenses for which a prior criminal history may make a student ineligible.

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