To work as a radiologic technologist or technician, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have an associate degree.

Education after high school

Most technologists and technicians have an associate degree. They earn their degree by completing a two-year program in medical imaging technology. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges, universities, and hospitals all offer these programs. Four-year programs grant a bachelor's degree. As a student, you study anatomy and physiology, patient care procedures, and medical terminology. You also learn radiation physics, radiation protection, and principles of imaging.

Work experience

If you have experience in another health care field, you can become a radiologic technologist and technician by completing a one-year certification program.

On-the-job training

Most radiologic technologists and technicians receive about a month of training on their new job. They are supervised by an experienced technologist or technician.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be radiologic technologists and technicians. Training lasts 12 to 19 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.