Health Studies: Radiologic Technology

Associate in Applied Science Degree

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This program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform radiologic technologist services. The radiologic technologist is a health professional who administers ionizing radiation (X-rays) to produce images for diagnostic, therapeutic and research purposes. The radiologic technologist operates imaging equipment, provides patient care and radiation protection, positions the patients for examination, selects technical factors for image acquisition, and maintains quality control and patient records. The radiologic technologist is in demand in hospitals, physicians’ offices, clinics, government, education, industry, and research.

Graduates of the AAS Health Studies: Radiologic Technology program are eligible to sit for the examination of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists for certification and New York State licensure. Passing the credentialing exam is necessary to receive a license to practice as an entry-level radiologic technologist in New York State.

Graduates may continue their education in areas such as sonography, nuclear medicine, cardiovascular interventional services, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, quality assurance management, research, education, radiation therapy, bone densitometry, and positron emission tomography (PET).

The Radiologic Technology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182; Phone 312-704-5300. The JRCERT is recognized by the United States Department of Education as the national accreditation agency of programs for radiologic technology.

Program Mission  

The mission of the Radiologic Technology Program is to promote student success through education with the professional knowledge to be competent Radiologic Technologists and to commit to life-long learning, and to become successful patient care providers within the community.

Goal 1. Students/Graduates will be clinically competent, entry-level professionals that meet the healthcare needs of the community. Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will develop clinical competence in the performance of basic radiographic procedures..
  • Students will provide patient care with regard to radiation safety (ALARA) and comfort.
  • Students will develop knowledge and comprehension to successfully establish manual exposure techniques.

Goal 2. Students/Graduates will demonstrate effective communication skills. Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will employ oral communication skills using appropriate patient identifiers.
  • Students will interpret written information to properly proceed with the radiographic examination.
  • Students/graduates will effectively convey information pertaining to the radiographic imaging procedure.

Goal 3. Students/graduates will evaluate the importance of life-long learning by encouraging professional development. Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will value the professional aspect of being a member of the radiologic science community.
  • Students will demonstrate the understanding for the need for life-long learning.
  • Students will provide mentorship and peer support to other students.
  • Students will promote a positive collaborative atmosphere with all members of the healthcare team.

4. Students/graduates will use problem solving and critical thinking skills. Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will adapt radiographic procedures to patient needs.
  • Students will distinguish diagnostic images from non-diagnostic images.

Total Credit Hours: 72

First Semester

This course is an opportunity for students to develop the skills necessary to be successful in college. Students learn the importance of the faculty-student and advisor-advisee relationship, develop time management techniques, apply effective study skill techniques, recognize the implications of living in a diverse society, utilize college resources, and explore career and transfer requirements. Collaborative projects are included. Students matriculated in a degree program must take this course in their first term of study.

This course covers the structure and function of the human organism and the regulatory processes that operate within a living system. It introduces general anatomical, physiological, and chemical organization, and includes the integumentary (skin), skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Laboratories involve vertebrate dissection, the use of prosected human cadavers and human skeletal materials, microscope work, non-invasive human experimentation, and possibly animal experimentation. Prerequisite: High School Biology or its equivalent is recommended.

This course introduces probability and statistics. Topics include graphs, tables, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency and dispersion, normal distribution, correlation and regression, probability, and inferential statistics. This course is available in two formats: lecture only, or lecture plus laboratory using technology. Prerequisite: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or MA089 Arithmetic.

This course prepares the radiologic technology student to evaluate and meet the physical, cultural, and emotional needs of the patient. Topics include basic arrhythmia and basic life support. Prerequisites: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or MA089 Arithmetic. Corequisites: RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography, RT 102 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology 1, RT 103 Clinical Education Fundamentals, BI 216 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1.

This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of radiographic physics and exposure. Topics include detailed history of x-ray, radiographic tube construction, process of x-ray production, x-ray beam characteristics, and the photographic and geometric properties of the radiographic image. The foundations of radiography and the practicioners’ role in the health care delivery system are discussed. Prerequisites: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or MA089 Arithmetic. Corequisites: RT100 Patient Care I/Ethics, RT102 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology I, RT103 Clinical Education Fundamentals, and BI216 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1.

This course introduces basic terminology, principles of radiographic procedures, and directional terms in relation to the human body. Students practice under simulated conditions in a laboratory setting before actually performing on patients in a clinical setting. Topics include proper use of radiographic equipment and patient safety issues. Prerequisites: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or MA089 Arithmetic. Corequisites: RT100 Patient Care I/Ethics, RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography, RT103 Clinical Education Fundamentals and BI216 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1.

This course introduces basic terminology, principles of radiographic procedures, and directional terms in relation to the human body. Students practice under simulated conditions in a laboratory setting before actually performing on patients in a clinical setting. Topics include proper use of radiographic equipment and patient safety issues. Prerequisites: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or MA089 Arithmetic. Corequisites: RT100 Patient Care I/Ethics, RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography , RT102 Radiographic Procedures / Pathology I and BI216 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1.

Second Semester

This course, which is a continuation of BI216 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1, involves the study of structure, function, and regulation in the human organism. Topics include blood, peripheral nerves, the cardiovascular system, lymphatics, the respiratory system, the excretory system, the endocrine system, the reproductive systems, the digestive system, and metabolism. Laboratories involve vertebrate dissection, the use of prosected human cadavers and human skeletal materials, microscope work, non-invasive human experimentation, and possibly animal experimentation. Prerequisite: BI216 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1.

This course provides students with basic pharmacologic principles and practices, knowledge of the administration or radiopaque contrast media, and related emergency medications. IV Therapy instruction compondent provides basic knowledge and theory related to IV therapy with regard to fluids, fluid administration, anatomy and physiology, venipuncture, infection prevention, and complications. Prerequisite: RT 100 Patient Care 1/Ethics. Corequisities: RT 105 Image Production & Evaluation 1, RT 106 Radiographic Procedure / Pathology 2, RT 107 Clinical Education Intermediate I, BI 217 Human Anatomy & Physiology 2.

This course provides students with a knowledge base in factors that govern the image production process. Film-screen imaging with related accessories, including radiographic grids, is emphasized. The components, principles, and operation of digital imaging systems found in diagnostic radiology are discussed. Prerequisite: RT100 Patient Care 1/Ethics, RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography, RT102 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology, RT103 Clinical Education Fundamentals. Corequisites: RT104 Patient Care II/Pharmacology & IV Therapy, RT106 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology 2, RT107 Clinical Education Intermediate.

This course introduces students to the skills necessary to perform the routine radiographic procedures with confidence. Through laboratory demonstration, supervised lab practice, and image evaluation, students receive instruction on the proper positioning of the patient to achieve a finished radiographic image displaying specific structures on particular body parts. The course also includes pathologic indications for each projection and appropriate adjustments for certain pathologic conditions that may affect the patient’s ability to assume certain positions. Proper equipment manipulation and patient safety issues are discussed throughout the course. Prerequisite: RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography, RT102 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology I, RT103 Clinical Education Fundamentals. Corequisites: RT104 Patient Care II/Pharmacology & IV Therapy, RT107 Clinical Education Intermediate I.

In this course, students experience day-to-day real life situations in health care which are essential to foster a professional demeanor, compassionate behavior, desirable work ethic, and the skills necessary to perform radiographic procedures and produce radiographic images for the diagnosis. This clinical component complements the clinical competencies learned. Prerequisite: RT103 Clinical Education Fundamentals. Corequisites: RT104 Patient Care 2/Pharmacology & IV Therapy, RT105 Image Production & Evaluation I, RT106 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology II.

Third Semester

In this course, students obtain clinical expertise in an actual radiology department setting and experience day-to-day real life situations in health care. Professional demeanor, compassionate behavior, desirable work ethic, and the skills necessary to perform radiographic procedures and produce radiographic images for diagnosis are practices. Students develop clinical skills which complement the clinical competencies learned. Prerequisite: RT107 Clinical Education Intermediate I.

Fourth Semester

This course focuses on several kinds of writing-self-expressive, informative, and argumentative/persuasive, and others. A minimum of five essay compositions are required. The course emphasizes the composition of clear, correct, and effective prose required in a variety of professions and occupations. Prerequisites: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or EN090 Basic Writing Skills or SL116 ESL4: Advanced Composition or SL145 ESOL Advanced Composition

This course introduces the many and varied facets of psychology. Emphasis is on interactions of individuals in their cultural, social, and economic environments as determined by their cognitive, behavioral, and emotional experiences and training.

This course is the first in a two semester sequence in Radiation Biology. Topics include an introduction to basic concepts of physics that relate to radiation absorption and scatter, analysis of ionizing and nonionizing radiation, the elctromagnetic spectrum, the process of interaction between radiation and matter, sources of radiation both natural and artificial, and units of measure. Basic concepts of molecular and cell biology in the context of the sequence of events that occur after absorption of energy from ionizing radiation and consequences on living systems are discussed. Prerequisite: RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography. Corequisites: RT200 Advanced Procedures/Sectional Anatomy, RT201 Image Production & Evaluation II, and RT202 Clinical Education Advanced.

This course introduces advanced procedures that require the use of contrast media and the pathologies indicated for these exams. Topics include general and specialized procedures involving the use of contrast agents of the reproductive tracts as well as the spinal column; basic anatomy of the brain, chest, abdomen, and pelvis as viewed in a cross section of the anatomy. Patient and equipment safety, proper room set-up, supervised lab practices, and film evaluation sessions are demonstrated and practiced. Phantoms are used to help assess the student's ability to perform proper positioning of the skull and facial bones. Prerequisite: RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography. Corequisites: RT109 Radiation Biology I, RT201 Image Production & Evaluation II, RT202 Clinical Education Advanced.

This course provides a knowledge base in factors that govern and influence producing and recording radiological images. Digital imaging with related accessories are emphasized. Theory application and accessory/equipment quality measurements are demonstrated. Prerequisite: RT105 Image Production & Evaluation I. Corequisites: RT109 Radiation Biology I, RT200 Advanced Procedures/Sectional Anatomy, RT202 Clinical Education Advanced.

This course provides advanced clinical experience in day-to-day real life situations in health care which are essential to foster a professional demeanor, compassionate behavior, desirable work ethic, and the skills necessary to perform radiographic procedures and produce radiographic images for diagnosis. Students develop clinical skills which complement the clinical competencies learned. Prerequisite: RT108 Clinical Education Intermediate II. Corequisites: RT109 Radiation Biology I, RT200 Advanced Procedures/Sectional Anatomy, RT201 Image Production & Evaluation II.

Fifth Semester

This course encourages a deeper understanding of human nature and the human condition through the study of ideas and values expressed in imaginative literature. Emphasis is placed on the use and development of critical thinking and language skills. Library-oriented research is required. Prerequisite: EN101 English 1: Composition or EN105 English Composition for Speakers of Other Languages or EN106 English 1: Composition & Reading.

This course explores the basic concepts of the science and technology of x-ray imaging. Topics include the study of matter, energy, the electromagnetic spectrum, and ionizing radiation. Prerequisite: RT101 Fundamentals of Radiography. Corequisites: RT204 Radiation Biology 2, RT205 Advanced Imaging Procedures/ Pathology, and RT207 Clinical Education Mastery.

This course is the second in a two semester sequence in Radiation Biology, Topics include radiation effects on organ systems, somatic and genetic damage factors, mutagens responsible for genetic mutations, the doubling dose concept, acute radiation syndromes, embryologic effects during pregnancy, and occupational and

non-occupational dose limits. Additional instruction is provided on safety and regulation issues. Prerequisite: RT109 Radiation Biology I. Corequisites: RT203 Radiographic Physics, RT205 Advanced Imaging Procedures/Pathology, and RT207 Clinical Education Mastery.

This course provides an overview of advanced imaging topics including equipment; computers in imaging; basic principles of the various health science professions; career planning; forensic radiography; and the principles, practices and policies of healthcare organizations. Theories of disease causation and

the pathophysiologic disorders that compromise healthy systems are introduced. Prerequisite: RT102 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology I, RT106 Radiographic Procedures/Pathology II, RT200 Advanced Procedures/Sectional Anatomy. Corequisites: RT203 Radiographic Physics, RT204 Radiation Biology II, and RT207

Clinical Education Mastery.

This course provides capstone clinical experience in day-to-day real life situations in health care that are essential to foster a professional demeanor, compassionate behavior, desirable work ethic and skill necessary to perform radiographic procedures and produce radiographic images for diagnosis. Students develop clinical skills to complement the clinical competencies learned. Prerequisite: RT103 Clinical Education Fundamentals, RT107 Clinical Education Intermediate I, RT108 Clinical Education Intermediate II, RT202 Clinical Education Advanced. Corequisites: RT203 Radiographic Physics, RT204 Radiation Biology II, and RT205 Advanced Imaging Procedures/Pathology.

Admission to this program is conditional upon meeting medically required clearance of the Radiologic Technology Program essential functions.

  • Students are required to meet the prerequisites prior to taking the first Radiologic Technology (RT) course. Students must have a GPA of 2.80 or greater in order to be considered for admission into the Radiologic Technology program. Students who deviate from the objectives of the Health Studies: Radiologic Technology program as outlined in the Program Student Policy Handbook and Program Student Clinical Handbook will be dismissed from the Health Studies: Radiologic Technology program and ineligible to return to the program.
  • A minimum RT didactic grade of 80 or better is required, a minimum RT clinical freshman grade of 80, and a minimum RT clinical senior grade of 85 are required to remain in the Radiologic Technology program. If the student receives less than a “B” grade in the RT courses they will be dismissed from the program. Any student who has been unsuccessful in one radiology course with a grade of “C,” “D,” “F,” or “W” will be dismissed and are not eligible to reapply to the program at MVCC. This does not include applicants who had a break in sequence due to medical leave. A minimum grade of “C,” 70 or higher, is required in all other non-Radiologic Technology courses.
  • Clinical assignments may include rotations that require travel within and outside the Utica/Rome area. A driver’s license is required. Students must provide their own transportation to and from assigned healthcare agencies for clinical.
  • Professional liability insurance, available through the College, is required and payable at registration.
  • Students are required to purchase a photo ID to be worn at all times during clinical and laboratory classes.
  • Students must follow the uniform code requirement outlined in the Radiologic Technology Student Clinical Handbook. Identified items (nametag, photo ID, uniform, hemostat, bandage scissors, and radiation monitor badge) are required for clinical sessions.
  • Credit by Examination and/or Credit for Experiential Learning are not options for students who have been unsuccessful in any RT or Human Anatomy & Physiology course.
  • Students may be subject to criminal background checks and/or blood screening tests at their own cost.
  • Upon successful completion of the Health Studies: Radiologic Technology program and additional requirements, students may be eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT) Certification Examination. Graduation from the Health Studies: Radiologic Technology program does not guarantee success on credentialing exams.
  • Students are responsible for fees associated with application for licensure.
  • Passing the ARRT credentialing exam is necessary to receive a license to practice as an entry-level radiologic technologist in NYS.
  • If an applicant has charges pending or a felony and/or misdemeanor, a license may be delayed or denied by the applicable state licensing board.

Admission to the School of Health Sciences (HLTS) at Mohawk Valley Community College is a competitive, time-sensitive, and sequential process. The following are the requirements to apply for the Radiologic Technology program. Applicants also are encouraged to carefully review the MVCC Radiology Program Essential Functions displayed at https://www.mvcc.edu/academics/health-sciences/radiologic-technology/essential-job-functions.php. 

Prerequisites:

Minimum qualifications:

High school diploma or its equivalent AND the most recent of the following:

  • A current overall college GPA of 2.80 (minimum of 12 or more credits)
  • High school average of 85
  • Math: An SAT math score of 500 or higher OR an ACT math score of 19 or higher OR an appropriate math placement test score OR a grade of “C” or better in MVCC MA090, MA091, MA110, MA108, MA115, or comparable mathematics course taken within seven years.
  • Chemistry: High school chemistry with a lab and a final grade of 75 or higher taken within seven years OR a grade of “C” or better in CH111 and CH112 or CH131 or equivalent taken within seven years.
  • Biology: High school biology with a lab and a final grade of 75 or higher taken within seven years OR a grade of “C” or better in an equivalent college biology course with a lab taken within seven years.

Please note: If you have successfully completed BI216 or BI217 at MVCC with a grade of “C” or higher or completed an approved college-level Anatomy & Physiology course taken within seven years at another college, you may be exempt from the Biology and Chemistry requirement for consideration of entry into the radiology program.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Applicants who have received a “D”, “F”, or “W” for any of the following courses at MVCC or at any other college will be ineligible to apply to the Radiologic Technology Program.

  • BI216 Human Anatomy & Physiology 1
  • BI217 Human Anatomy & Physiology 2
  • Any Radiology course

Any student who has been unsuccessful in one radiology course or Human Anatomy & Physiology 1 and 2 will be dropped from the program. Any student who has been unsuccessful at another college/radiology program will not be eligible for admission to the radiology program.

Prerequisites can be taken at other colleges. Consult the Radiology Program Coordinator or Clinical Coordinator to find out if those classes meet the minimum criteria.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Applicants may have no more than one repeat (F, D or W) in any of the above prerequisite college courses within five years of applying to the Radiologic Technology program.

Transfer or Returning Students:
Transfer application deadline is March 1 for Fall term radiology courses and Oct. 1 for Spring term radiology courses. Transfer applicants are applicants with transfer credit for Radiology Course(s) from another college and must apply, meeting all program and prerequisite criteria, and will be considered on an individual basis.

Readmission Applicants:
Readmission only includes applicants who had a break in sequence due to medical leave. Readmission Application Deadlines: March 1 for Fall term radiology courses and Oct. 1 for Spring term radiology courses. Readmission into the Radiologic Technology Program and/or Radiology Course(s) requires approval of the Program Coordinator, and is on a space-available basis.

1. Notify Program Coordinator in writing requesting readmission indicating course and semester for which readmission is sought. Send letters to: Mary Kate LaPaglia, MAE, RT (R) (M), Academic Building 113C, 1101 Sherman Drive, Utica, NY 13501.
2. Science credits earned more than seven years prior to the start of the student's first Radiology semester will not satisfy program or prerequisite course requirements.

Applicants should refer to the Health Studies: Radiologic Technology Program webpage (https://www.mvcc.edu/academics/health-sciences/radiologic-technology/index.php) for more information on How to Apply to Radiologic Technology.