Education Options for Tomorrow’s Medical Imaging Professionals in Nevada

Radiologic technologists play an important role in medicine. They are technicians with at least a two-year degree and they work in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings assisting doctors and patients with radiological procedures and diagnostic tests.

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As the population of the country grows and ages, all kinds of health careers are on the rise, including those in radiology. Nevada is no exception and is a state that will continue to need healthcare workers in general, and radiologic technicians, in particular. Large medical centers in Las Vegas and smaller facilities in smaller towns alike will continue to need people to fill these jobs.

Responsibilities of Radiologic Technologist

Radiologic technologists are responsible for operating equipment to take high-quality images of the body that can be used by doctors to diagnose illnesses and injuries. They use x-ray machines, ultrasound devices, CT scanners, and other imaging equipment in order to take these images. They may also be trained to do various procedures such as biopsies and mammograms. They maintain treatment records, carry out radiographic analysis, answer patient questions and ensure patient safety by following all protocols.

State Requirements

The state of Nevada only requires mammography technologists to be certified. The technologist needs 3 certifications: certification from the FDA for the lawful operation of all mammography machines, an accreditation certificate from The American College of Radiology, and a state certificate of authorization from the Nevada Radiation Control Program (RCP). Working in other areas of radiologic technology, such as radiography, and radiation therapy is possible in Nevada but does not require licensing.

Radiologic Technology Schools In Nevada

Radiologic technology degree programs are available from several schools in Nevada.

For those interested in pursuing education in radiologic technology in Nevada, there are a few choices including courses at the University of Nevada and the National University.

• University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The Las Vegas campus of the University of Nevada offers students a radiography certificate program. Students who graduate from the program are prepared to work in a clinical setting immediately. Coursework includes hands-on work with radiography equipment and with patients. Students also have the option of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Comprehensive Medical Imaging — Radiography.
• National University, Henderson. This school, with a campus in Henderson offers students the chance to earn a bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy. The program includes general education in the liberal arts as well as coursework that prepares students for a career as a radiation therapist. It has been accredited by the Radiologic Health Branch of the California Department of Health.

Other Schools to Consider Radiologic Technology Program

There are two other options for those interested in radiologic technology and healthcare careers.

• Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno. In Reno, students can earn a two-year degree in radiologic technology at this community college. The program includes general education coursework, a foundation in basic science, as well as courses specific to radiology. Students receive clinical training in addition to class work.
• Western Nevada College. This college, which has campuses in Carson City, Fallon, Douglas, and Lovelock offers an associate of applied science degree in nursing. While not specifically designed to train radiologic technologists, this program can help students get a start in health sciences.

Large Employers in Radiology

Las Vegas and Reno are the largest cities in the state and have the most jobs for radiologic technologists. However, there are smaller facilities in towns and in rural areas that need workers in this field too.

Salaries in Radiology

Radiologic technologists make, on average in the U.S., $29.50 per hour or $61,370 per year. In Nevada, there are approximately 1,270 employed radiologic technologists. These workers make more than the national average. The average annual salary in Nevada for work in this field is $77,620 but can be as high as $94,880 for those with specializations and experience. The average hourly wage is $29.78. More information on Rad Tech salaries in Nevada.

Professional Organizations

Radiologic Technologists in Nevada can join the professional association of the Nevada Society of Radiologic Technologists. On the national level, workers in this field may take the exam set by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. They may also become members of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

American registry of radiologic technologists (ARRT)The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, or ARRT, is the largest and most widely recognized certification body in the United States. The organization offers certificates in multiple disciplines, including radiography, radiation therapy, mammography, sonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine technology, vascular-interventional radiography and quality management.

For more information about becoming a radiologic technologist, the education required, and the career possibilities, contact the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.

JRCERT Accredited Radiography Programs in Nevada

Great Basin College – Radiography

1500 College Parkway, Elko NV 89801
Tel: (775) 753-2463
Program Name: Radiology Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 26 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 82%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 90%  Job Placement Rate: 89.8%
Tuition Fees: $4,050 Resident, $7,372 Non-resident

Pima Medical Institute-Las Vegas – Radiography

3333 East Flamingo Road, Las Vegas NV 89121
Tel: (702) 458-9650
Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 90 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 82%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 91.4%  Job Placement Rate: 98%
Tuition Fees: $17,262 Resident, $17,262 Non-resident

Truckee Meadows Community College – Radiography

18600 Wedge Parkway, Reno NV 89521
Tel: (775) 850-4045
Program Name: Radiologic Technology
Program Type: Associate of Applied Science
Duration: 40 months
Tuition Fees: $92 Resident, $183 Non-resident

University of Nevada, Las Vegas – Radiography

4505 Maryland Parkway, Box 453017, Las Vegas NV 89154-3017
Tel: (702) 895-3296
Program Name: Radiography
Program Type: Bachelor of Science
Duration: 122 months
Program Effectiveness: Completion Rate: 88%  Credential Examination Pass Rate: 91%  Job Placement Rate: 88%
Tuition Fees: $5,775