Radiologic Technology Career Overview - Southwestern Illinois College
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Radiologic Technology Career Overview

Prepare for the Future

To safely and effectively use radiographic equipment and prepare for the future, radiologic technologists provide vital information concerning structure and function of the human body.

The SWIC Radiologic Technology program prepares students to produce x-rays for the purpose of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries. Radiologic technology encompasses a variety of specialties and plays an invaluable role in the practice of medicine, enabling physicians to make accurate diagnoses to pursue care and treatment.

Job Description

Radiologic technology encompasses many specialties involving medical diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays.

Radiologic Technologists:

  • Provide vital information concerning structure and function of the human body
  • Enable physicians to make accurate diagnoses to pursue care and treatment
  • Play a key role in the total spectrum of medical imaging of health care services

Job Opportunities

Radiologic Technology Career Opportunities

RTs work in variety of settings. Job opportunities continue to grow as the medical field continues to promote outpatient medical services and the elderly population increases.

3 girls holding Skeleton in Radiology Class
Hospitals

Radiologic technologists perform a wide range of diagnostic x-ray exams for inpatients and emergency cases. They work closely with physicians and nurses to support fast, accurate diagnosis.

Health Care Facilities

RTs take routine diagnostic images for scheduled patients, often focusing on outpatient care. They help manage patient flow and assist providers with imaging needs for ongoing treatment.

Oncology Centers

Radiologic technologists may assist with imaging used for cancer detection, treatment planning, and monitoring. They support oncology teams by producing clear images that help guide care.

Physician’s Offices

RTs perform basic diagnostic x-rays ordered during routine visits. They help physicians quickly evaluate injuries or conditions so patients can receive timely treatment.

For more information about a position please visit the
Occupational Outlook Handbook website for job market information: www.bls.gov.

Career Information

Job Outlook

Salary

MEDIAN INCOME

$40,000-$45,000

Employment

PROJECTION INCREASE

7%

Salary

MEDIAN ANNUAL INCOME

$64,840

The U.S. Department of Labor 2019-29 Occupational Outlook Handbook projects employment of radiologic technologists to increase by about 7 percent, faster than the average for all occupations.

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Career Services

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Paying For College

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