You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Some programs require you to take pre-professional or general education courses before applying. These programs may admit you before you have finished these courses, but might want to see proof that you have started them or plan to start them soon.

These prerequisite courses usually include some combination of the following:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• College Algebra
• Computer Applications
• English Composition
• General Biology
• General Chemistry
• Interpersonal Communication
• Medical Ethics
• Medical Terminology
• Psychology
• Sociology

Other requirements may include:

• American College Testing (ACT) or Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
• Clinical observation ("shadowing") in the radiologic sciences field
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interview

Some programs prefer applicants who have a background in radiography (X-ray technology). However, many programs offer two options: course work for those who have this background and course work for those who do not. If you don't have a background in radiography or some other radiation science, your studies usually take longer to complete.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

• Basic Computer
• General Computer Applications
• Community Health
• Safety and First Aid
• Healthcare Occupations
• Medical Lab Technology
• Healthcare Sciences Work Experience
• Biology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• General Math
• Psychology