Radiation science technology is a field of health care that includes a number of specific careers focused on taking quality images of the human body in order to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease. Radiation science technologists can obtain certification to work with X-ray, MRI scans, CT scans, and diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound). They can obtain further education to be able to use nuclear and radioactive substances to diagnose and treat disease. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals as part of a treatment team. Radiation science technologists may also be called radiologic technologists or radiographers. Those with specific training in ultrasound technology to create images of internal body structures are called sonographers or ultrasound technologists.
Plan Your Path to a Radiation Sciences Program
- Meet with a Pre-Health advisor to create a comprehensive academic and co-curricular plan
- Research application requirements
- See specific school websites for any specific application requirements which may vary by program.
- Meet with a representative of the program for specific questions and guidance
- Apply to Radiation Science programs
- Apply directly to each radiation science technology program. A list of schools can be found on the Radiology Schools Directory.
- Consult program websites for application procedures, requirements, and deadlines directly regarding applications and requirements
- Schools may offer either an Associates, Bachelor's, or sometimes a dual degree
Pre-Radiation Sciences can encompass a wide range of imaging sciences and modalities, including X-ray, sonography (ultrasound), MRI, CT scanning, and many other specialized imaging sciences. The educational paths vary depending on which modalities you want to practice. The two beginning pathways are through radiologic technology or ultrasound technology. Radiologic technologists usually operate radiation-based equipment to produce medical images (CT, MRI, Mammogram, X-Ray). Meanwhile, ultrasound technologists use equipment that generates images through high-frequency sound waves. Diagnostic medical sonographers can further specialize in a variety of areas such as vascular technology and obstetric and gynecologic imaging.
Suggested Academic Preparation
- Completion of pre-requisite courses
- Competitive academic record
- GPA in both science and nonscience courses
Explore this Career
- Shadow radiation science technologist
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
- American Society of Radiologic Technologists
- Nebraska Society of Radiologic Technologists
- Meet with a Pre-Health or Career Advisor in the Explore Center
- Meet with a professional school to learn more about their program
- Research Radiation Sciences programs
- American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Local Professional Schools
- Bryan College of Health Sciences (Omaha, NE)
- Clarkson College (Omaha, NE)
- Nebraska Methodist College (Omaha, NE)
- UNMC College of Allied Health Professions(Omaha, NE)
- CHI Radologic Technology (Omaha, NE)
- A variety of community colleges in the area also have similar programs
Current Students
Current students: Meet with a Pre-Health advisor to talk more about your Pre-Health goals.
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