Medical Radiography, AS

The medical radiographer, or radiologic technologist, is responsible for the accurate imaging of body structures on a radiograph or other image receptor. The technologist determines proper exposure factors, manipulates medical imaging equipment, evaluates the radiographic image for quality, and provides for patient protection and comfort. The technologist frequently assists the physician team member in specialized procedures. These often require the administration of chemical mixtures to the patient for enhanced viewing of the function of the body systems. The medical radiography program begins with the autumn quarter and is based on the completion of one year of prerequisite course work at an accredited college or university. The program is seven quarters long with the first quarter emphasizing the theoretical aspects of radiography with one day per week in clinical orientation. The remaining five quarters combine clinical training on a two-to-five days per week basis, with more advanced classroom topics. The clinical schedule may extend though vacation periods and may involve some evening.