Becoming a radiologic technologist: everything you need to know

Photo by Gemini

Written by William Entriken

Radiologic technologists play a critical role in modern healthcare by capturing the diagnostic images that physicians use to identify illnesses and injuries. If you’re interested in a hands-on healthcare career that uses science, technology and patient care skills, radiologic technology may be the perfect entry path into the field of radiology.

What is a radiologic technologist?

A radiologic technologist—often called a radiographer—is a trained medical imaging professional who performs diagnostic imaging procedures, primarily X-rays. They work under the supervision of radiologists, who interpret the images.

Radiologic technologists work in:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient imaging centers
• Urgent care clinics
• Orthopedic and primary care practices

Their work requires technical skill, attention to detail, strong radiation-safety knowledge, and excellent communication skills to keep patients informed and comfortable during procedures.

What educational background do you need?

To become a radiologic technologist, you must complete an accredited radiologic technology program. These are offered as:

• Certificate programs (less common)
• Associate degree programs (most common)
• Bachelor’s degree programs (in some universities)

Programs must be accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) to ensure eligibility for the national certification exam.

Training typically includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical rotations, covering:

• Human anatomy and physiology
• Physics of medical imaging
• Radiation protection and ALARA principles
• Patient positioning for X-ray and fluoroscopy
• Medical ethics and patient communication
• Image evaluation and quality control

After completing an accredited program, graduates are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam—a requirement for licensure in most states.

Basic job responsibilities and a typical day

Entry-level radiologic technologists perform a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Preparing and positioning patients for imaging
• Performing X-ray exams and basic fluoroscopy under supervision
• Ensuring radiation safety for patients and staff
• Reviewing images to ensure diagnostic quality
• Following physician imaging orders
• Maintaining and sterilizing equipment
• Updating patient records and imaging logs

A typical day may include imaging patients with fractures, chest conditions, abdominal complaints, or pre-operative needs. Technologists work closely with nurses, emergency department staff, orthopedic teams, and radiologists. Imaging departments are often fast-paced, and technologists may support emergency or trauma cases, depending on the facility.

Comments and feedback from radiologic technologists

Here is what technologists are sharing on X and TikTok about their experiences:

• “Positioning matters. A single wrong angle can hide a fracture.”
• “We’re not just taking pictures—we’re helping diagnose what’s really going on.”
• “Radiation safety is non-negotiable. ALARA always.”
• “Helping a nervous patient relax makes the entire procedure smoother—and safer.”

How to get started

1. Research accredited programs: Look for JRCERT-accredited radiologic technology programs in your area.
2. Complete education and clinical training: Expect 18–24 months of coursework and clinical rotations.
3. Pass the ARRT certification exam: Required by most employers and state licensing boards.
4. Apply for state licensure: Requirements differ by state, but most require ARRT certification.
5. Seek entry-level positions: Start in hospitals, imaging centers, or clinics to build experience.

As technologists gain experience, they can advance into specialized imaging roles such as CT, MRI, mammography, or interventional radiology.

Training in Philadelphia, PA USA

For in-person training in the Philadelphia area, consider Tri-State Imaging Solutions, which offers comprehensive radiologic technologist programs with clinical rotations at local hospitals and imaging centers.

Location: 3103 Philmont Ave, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006

Website: Tri-State Imaging Solutions

Final thoughts

Radiologic technology offers a stable and meaningful career for those who want to join the healthcare field using both technical and patient-care skills. Whether it’s a stepping stone toward further medical imaging specialties or a long-term profession, becoming a radiologic technologist opens the door to essential and rewarding work in modern medicine.

Works cited

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Radiologic and MRI Technologists.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Accessed December 2024.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). “Become Certified.” Accessed December 2024.
https://www.arrt.org/pages/about-the-profession/arrt-certification-and-registration

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. “About Accreditation.” Accessed December 2024.
https://www.jrcert.org

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. “Radiation Protection and ALARA.” Accessed December 2024.
https://www.nrc.gov/about-nrc/radiation