Overview
careers
Radiologic Technologist
- X-Ray Technologist
- CT Technologist
The Radiologic Technology program at Mitchell Technical College is a 21-month Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program. The program provides comprehensive training in radiologic technology. Radiologic technologists work in professional environments such as hospitals, medical clinics, and private medical offices.
The Radiologic Technology program utilizes didactic, laboratory, and clinical education to prepare students to work as radiologic technologists. The didactic, or classroom portion, teaches the student the fundamental principles of x-ray production, radiographic positioning skills, radiographic anatomy, imaging equipment, radiographic pathology, patient care, and radiation safety. The clinical portion allows the student to gain practical experience in real-life situations. Students will attend courses on MTC’s campus the first two semesters of the program. For the subsequent three semesters, the student will be assigned to clinical rotations, including evening and weekend rotations, in various locations in South Dakota. This requires students to relocate to the area of their clinical assignment at their own expense. Students will also complete online courses during their clinical semesters and will infrequently return to campus for various learning activities.
Graduates of the program will pursue employment opportunities in radiology or diagnostic imaging departments.
Curriculum
Award: AAS Degree
First Semester
Basic anatomy and physiology of the human body. Systems studied include integumentary, musculo-skeletal, nervous, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, digestive, endocrine and reproductive. (A grade of ”C” or higher required to continue in medical programs.)
4 creditsThis course is an introduction to radiologic science. The content prepares students for academic study and clinical experiences. Topics include introduction to imaging, professional organizations, basic patient care, infection control, professional ethics, and medical law.
3 creditsThis course creates a foundation for understanding the principles of radiographic technique and quality. Included is a description of the basic physical principles of measurement, energy, atomic structure, electricity, magnetism, and their application to radiation production. The course also offers an overview of how the x-ray machine produces x-radiation. Emphasis is on radiographic image quality through presentation of prime exposure factors, solving technical problems, and making adjustments to correct those problems.
4 creditsThis course provides the student with the knowledge necessary to perform radiographic procedures relative to the upper and lower extremities and chest. Emphasis will be placed on radiographic terms, detailed anatomy, positioning, and image analysis guidelines which includes identification of required anatomy and recognizing diagnostic quality images.
6 creditsProvides a foundation for gaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for college success. Students will learn to make a successful transition to higher education by setting up a pattern of success that will last the rest of their lives. Students will define goals and develop thinking skills, learning strategies and personal qualities essential to both academic and career success. Please note: Students who have served active military duty (excluding basic training and AIT) may be exempt from the Student Success course. Student must provide a copy of DD214 or other official military documentation to the registrar for verification.
1 creditSecond Semester
This course will introduce the student to the clinical aspect of their training. Topics include critical thinking, human diversity/ patient interactions, medical emergencies, aseptic/non-aseptic technique, pharmacology, contrast media, and venipuncture.
3 creditsThis course creates a foundation for understanding the fundamental concepts, terminology, and applications of digital imaging as it relates to radiologic technology. Included is a description of digital image acquisition, display, and archiving. Advanced x-ray imaging equipment will be introduced, including surgical radiography, digital fluoroscopy, and interventional radiography. Advanced modalities will also be introduced.
4 creditsThis course provides the student with the knowledge necessary to perform radiographic procedures relative to the cranium, ribs and sternum, vertebral column and abdomen. Emphasis will be placed on radiographic terms, detailed anatomy, positioning, and image analysis guidelines which includes identification of required anatomy and recognizing diagnostic quality images.
6 creditsThis course will introduce the student to the concept of disease and its effects on the human body. The relationship of pathology and diseases to various radiographic procedures and radiographs will be discussed.
3 creditsThis course provides an overview of the effects of ionizing radiation on cells in the human body. Topics include factors affecting biological response, radiation exposure monitoring, units of measurement, and radiation protection for patients, personnel, and the public.
3 creditsThis course meets CDC, OSHA and NFPA guidelines for basic life support. It focuses on immediate life-threatening situations, demonstrates quick, effective responses and presents perspectives on how frequently these situations occur. It is ideal for professionals such as firefighters, police, paramedics, lifeguards, athletic trainers, medical assistants and other medical professionals. Topics covered include the professional rescuer’s role in emergencies; victim’s condition assessment; basic life support; rescue breathing; cardiac emergencies; airway obstructions; AED use; and resuscitation in special situations. This class is offered for credit as a Pass/No Pass course.
0.5 creditsThird Semester
This course provides the student with the knowledge necessary to perform radiographic procedures relative to the urinary and digestive systems. Emphasis will be placed on radiographic terms, detailed anatomy, positioning, and image analysis guidelines which includes identification of required anatomy and recognizing diagnostic quality images. Trauma radiography is also introduced.
2 creditsThis course will emphasize the basic principles of computed tomography. The content will include computed tomography generations, components and processes, and radiation protection. Also emphasized will be the principles of sectional anatomy as demonstrated on routine sectional images. CT images are primarily studied in this course but the student is introduced to a comparison of CT and MRI images. Exams included will be thorax, abdomen, pelvis, head, spine, and extremity.
2 creditsThis course is the first of a three part series of clinical courses. Students will focus on the basic application of radiography in the clinical setting. Under supervision, students develop technical skills and procedural knowledge through observation and participation in radiographic studies. Students will also complete radiographic exam competencies.
9 creditsThis course is designed to prepare students for the national certification exam. The content of this course focuses on patient care, safety, image production, and procedures. Tests are formatted similar to the national certification exam. This course is the first in a three-part series of registry review courses.
1 creditFourth Semester
This course is the second of a three part series of clinical courses. Students will focus on more advanced application of radiography in the clinical setting. Under supervision, students continue to develop technical skills and procedural knowledge through participation in radiographic studies. Students will also complete radiographic exam competencies and explore elective practice areas of radiology.
11 creditsThis course is designed to prepare students for the national certification exam. The content of this course focuses on patient care, safety, image production, and procedures. Tests are formatted similar to the national certification exam. This course is the second in a three-part series of registry review courses.
1 creditThis course is designed to develop students’ problem-solving skills and quantitative reasoning through topics including: problem-solving processes, logic, percentages, measurement, ratios and proportions, statistics, linear equations, geometry and trigonometry, and personal finance.
3 creditsFifth Semester
This course is the third of a three part series of clinical courses. Students will focus on preparing for the professional responsibilities needed for clinical practice in the healthcare environment. Under supervision, students will refine technical skills and procedural knowledge through participation in radiographic studies. Students will also complete radiographic exam competencies and explore elective practice areas of radiology.
11 creditsThis course is designed to prepare students for the national certification exam. The content of this course focuses on patient care, safety, image production, and procedures. Tests are formatted similar to the national certification exam. This course is the third in a three-part series of registry review courses.
1 creditThis class is designed to develop students’ skills in critical reading and in a range of writing tasks. It allows students to go beyond matters of comprehension and summary to evaluate and extend everything they read. It will assist students in discovering something meaningful to say and to use writing as a way to actively participate in discussions about certain subjects; it will also enable students to approach a topic in a creative manner, gather and evaluate information, organize ideas, write coherent sentences, and learn to revise and edit drafts.
This course includes review techniques for correct mechanics, grammar, and sentence construction. It introduces students to professional and technical writing, and it assists students in developing strategies for collaborative writing.
Prerequisite: ENGL 098 or qualifying placement score.
3 creditsRequirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Complete the Admissions application.
- Send official high school and any post-secondary transcripts to Mitchell Tech. The applicant must be a high school graduate or have an equivalent certificate. Applicants will receive application points based on their cumulative GPA and any math and science classes they have taken. Math and science class GPAs are also considered.
- Send ACT scores to Mitchell Tech. Although the scores are not required for your application, providing ACT scores may increase your chances of acceptance. Please contact the Admissions Office if you have questions about the ACT test.
- Submit an essay, using the guidelines Admissions provides.
When all four items are complete and submitted to the Admissions Office, the applicant’s file will be reviewed and scored with an objective point system. The applicant must meet a target score to move on to the next part of the application. An Admissions Representative will reach out to all applicants after their file is reviewed.
The final part of the application process, after an applicant has met the target score, will be to schedule and complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam. Here are important things to know about this test:
- A minimum score of 62% on the TEAS exam is needed to be accepted into the program.
- Students are allowed three attempts to score a 62% but must wait for a minimum of 30 days in-between tests.
- The cost of the TEAS is $65 plus tax and is paid by credit/debit card before taking the test.
We recommend high school students apply after completion of their junior year.
Next Steps for Accepted Students: Once you have been formally accepted into the Radiologic Technology program, you will be required to complete the following:
- Submit your immunization record with documentation of all required immunizations (at your expense)
- Complete a criminal background check (at your expense)
- Undergo a student physical (at your expense)
- Complete required documents provided to you by program director
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
Students must complete all technical courses with a minimum grade of C (2.0) in order to become registry-eligible. Students who do not achieve a C (2.0) grade will be prevented from enrolling in the subsequent semester due to prerequisite requirements.
COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS
This program allows you to bring your own laptop as long as it meets these minimum specifications:
Processor – Intel Core i Series (i3, i5, i7) or AMD Ryzen
Operating System – Windows 10
Webcam Recommended
Memory – 4 GB or more
Internal Storage – 64 GB or more
Microsoft Office is available at no charge as long as enrolled at Mitchell Tech
NO APPLE/MAC COMPUTERS
LICENSURE DISCLOSURE
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to apply for the ARRT certification and registration in Radiography (R). This ARRT certification is recognized in 48 states and will allow graduates to pursue state licensure if required in their state.
Licensure is not required in the following states: Alabama, District of Columbia, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, South Dakota.
Mitchell Technical College has determined that our program’s curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Mitchell Technical College has made no determination that our program’s curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure in the following states: American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands.
Mitchell Tech encourages prospective students to visit the ARRT website (https://www.arrt.org/about-the-profession/state-licensing) for further information regarding state licensures. You may also contact Director of Admissions Heather Kulm (605.995.7342) for questions regarding licensure.
Outcomes
At the completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
Demonstrate competency in the clinical setting
- Accurately position the patient
- Properly manipulate radiographic equipment
- Apply principles of radiation protection
Think critically
- Perform non-routine examinations
- Identify diagnostic quality images
- Recognize emergency patient conditions and initiate appropriate procedures
Communicate effectively
- Demonstrate effective communication skills with staff
- Demonstrate effective communication skills with patients
- Demonstrate effective written communication skills
- Demonstrate effective oral communication skills
Program Effectiveness Goals
Graduates will —
- Pass the ARRT exam
- Perform as entry-level technologists
- Find employment within 12 months of graduation
- Complete the program
Mission
It is the mission of the Mitchell Tech Department of Radiologic Sciences to provide skills necessary for success in the field of radiologic technology.
Assessment Plan
Program faculty annually assess student achievement data to assure student learning goals are met and to guide program improvements.
Accreditation
The Mitchell Technical College Radiologic Technology program, offered for the AAS degree, is accredited by:
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
(312) 704-5300
Email: [email protected]
The program’s current accreditation award is 8 years. General program accreditation information and the current accreditation award letter can be found HERE.
Faculty
Clinical Coordinator / Instructor
Instructor
Program Director / Instructor
Instructor
Cost
Other Required Costs
Books / Tools (estimated) | $485 |
Scholarships
$1000
4 AVAIL.
Osterhaus Endowed Scholarships
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Agricultural Business
Agronomy
Animal Science
Architectural Design and Building Construction
Automation Controls/SCADA
Business Management
Culinary Academy of South Dakota
Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Electrical Utilities & Substation Technology
Heating & Cooling Technology
Human Services Technician
Information Systems Technology
Machining and Manufacturing
Medical Assistant
Medical Laboratory Technology
Medical Office Professional
Medical Office Professional
Power Line Construction & Maintenance
Power Sports & Marine Technology
Precision Ag Technology
Radiation Therapy
Radiologic Technology
Small Business Management
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Utilities Technology
Wi-Fi & Broadband Technologies
Wind Turbine Technology
$1000
1 AVAIL.
Mitchell Tech Retiree Endowed Scholarship
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Agricultural Business
Agronomy
Animal Science
Architectural Design and Building Construction
Automation Controls/SCADA
Business Management
Culinary Academy of South Dakota
Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Electrical Utilities & Substation Technology
Geospatial Technologies
Heating & Cooling Technology
Human Services Technician
Information Systems Technology
Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
Machining and Manufacturing
Medical Assistant
Medical Laboratory Technology
Medical Office Professional
Medical Office Professional
Natural Gas Technology
Office Technology Specialist
Power Line Construction & Maintenance
Power Sports & Marine Technology
Precision Ag Technology
Radiation Therapy
Radiologic Technology
Small Business Management
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Utilities Technology
Wi-Fi & Broadband Technologies
Wind Turbine Technology
$1000
2 AVAIL.
Laverne & Nell Tollefson Memorial Scholarship
Charlene Bainbridge
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Administrative Office Specialist
Agricultural Business
Agronomy
Animal Science
Architectural Design and Building Construction
Automation Engineering Technology
Automation Controls/SCADA
Business Management
Culinary Academy of South Dakota
Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology
Diesel Power – Light Truck Technology
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Electrical Utilities & Substation Technology
Geospatial Technologies
Heating & Cooling Technology
Human Services Technician
Information Systems Technology
Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
Machining and Manufacturing
Medical Assistant
Medical Laboratory Technology
Medical Office Professional
Medical Office Professional
Natural Gas Technology
On Campus
Power Line Construction & Maintenance
Power Sports & Marine Technology
Precision Ag Technology
Progressive Welding Technology
Radiation Therapy
Radiologic Technology
Registered Nursing (LPN to RN)
Small Business Management
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Utilities Technology
Wi-Fi & Broadband Technologies
Wind Turbine Technology
$1000
2 AVAIL.
John And Diane Weber “Career Change” Endowed Scholarship
John and Diane Weber Family and Friends
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Agricultural Business
Agronomy
Animal Science
Architectural Design and Building Construction
Automation Controls/SCADA
Culinary Academy of South Dakota
Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Electrical Utilities & Substation Technology
Geospatial Technologies
Heating & Cooling Technology
Human Services Technician
Information Systems Technology
Machining and Manufacturing
Medical Assistant
Medical Laboratory Technology
Medical Office Professional
Power Line Construction & Maintenance
Power Sports & Marine Technology
Precision Ag Technology
Radiation Therapy
Radiologic Technology
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Utilities Technology
Wi-Fi & Broadband Technologies
Wind Turbine Technology
$500
1 AVAIL.
Daniel Roy Todd Memorial Scholarship
Daniel Todd Family
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Agricultural Business
Agronomy
Animal Science
Architectural Design and Building Construction
Automation Controls/SCADA
Culinary Academy of South Dakota
Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Heating & Cooling Technology
Human Services Technician
Information Systems Technology
Machining and Manufacturing
Medical Assistant
Medical Laboratory Technology
Medical Office Professional
Power Sports & Marine Technology
Precision Ag Technology
Radiation Therapy
Radiologic Technology
Small Business Management
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Wi-Fi & Broadband Technologies
Wind Turbine Technology
$1000
1 AVAIL.
BPO Elks #1059 Endowed Scholarship
BPO Elks #1059
- About
- Eligibility
- Criteria
Agricultural Business
Agronomy
Animal Science
Architectural Design and Building Construction
Automation Controls/SCADA
Business Management
Culinary Academy of South Dakota
Diesel Power – Ag Power Technology
Electrical Construction & Maintenance
Electrical Utilities & Substation Technology
Heating & Cooling Technology
Human Services Technician
Information Systems Technology
Machining and Manufacturing
Medical Assistant
Medical Laboratory Technology
Medical Office Professional
Medical Office Professional
Power Sports & Marine Technology
Precision Ag Technology
Radiation Therapy
Radiologic Technology
Small Business Management
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Utilities Technology
Wi-Fi & Broadband Technologies
Wind Turbine Technology