Earn an Associates in Radiology
Radiology refers to the study and application of X-ray machines and other diagnostic imaging technologies. Radiologists perform diagnostic testing on patients and operate relevant machinery such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners.
Associate in radiology programs appeal most to those seeking a technical role within the healthcare industry. Radiology degrees prepare learners to work in testing facilities, hospitals, and private clinics. Graduates typically become radiologic technologists, sonographers, and MRI technicians.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster than average job growth in radiology fields. The profession may grow by up to 7% between 2019-2029. Radiologic technologists earn a median annual salary of $62,280, depending on job type and location.
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Students Frequently Asked Questions About Radiology Programs
What can you do with an associate in radiology degree?
Associate in radiology programs prepare students to serve as radiologic technologists, mammographers, and MRI technologists. Graduates may work in hospitals, clinics, testing centers, or research facilities.
Is radiology a safe career?
The field maintains strict guidelines and policies to ensure that radiologists remain safe from X-ray exposure. Many healthcare facilities require protective clothing for workers administering radiation.
How long does it take to complete an associate in radiology degree?
An associate in radiology degree generally takes two years to complete.
Can I complete a radiology degree online?
Several schools feature online radiology degrees. These programs offer coursework tailored to working professionals.
Why Pursue an Associate in Radiology Program?
Careers in radiology offer many personal and professional benefits. Associate in radiology programs give learners greater job access and a deeper understanding of a healthcare specialty. The list below features five benefits of radiology degrees.
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1
Increased Earning Potential
Radiology graduates earn more than healthcare workers without an industry credential.
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Associate in radiology degrees offer learners better job prospects. Graduates qualify for more jobs than those without a degree.
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Radiology programs help students gain specialized expertise in a highly technical field. Coursework prepares enrollees to operate appropriate diagnostic technologies.
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Like other healthcare workers, radiologic technologists provide essential services to local and regional communities.
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5
Improved Health Outcomes
Radiology professionals contribute to improving patient health outcomes through diagnostic imaging and testing.
Courses in a Radiology Program
While courses vary by school, many associate in radiology programs contain similar core coursework requirements. Students can expect to study imaging technologies, patient diagnosis, and image evaluation. Additional core courses include pathology, anatomy, and medical terminology.
Associate in radiology degrees also feature specialized coursework. Learners may specialize in radiation therapy, sonography, or MRI technology.
Radiology programs require students to complete clinical training under a professional radiologist's supervision. Enrollees supplement clinical experiences with additional internships or capstone courses. The following list highlights three courses learners may encounter in radiology programs.
Radiation Protection
This course provides learners with essential skills for safely using radiation technology. It covers safety principles for X-rays and other diagnostic imaging machines. Enrollees learn how to protect themselves and patients against radiation damage. The class may feature simulation exercises to help students master key safety procedures.Medical Terminology
Learners in this course study essential medical and healthcare-related terms. They learn the origins of foundational concepts in health and medicine and how to apply terms to diagnostic situations. The course covers specific vocabulary for radiation technology. An understanding of medical terminology remains a foundational skill for healthcare workers.Radiographic Physics
This class focuses on the physical processes that make X-ray machines work. Enrollees learn about X-ray tubes' function, X-ray circuitry, and photon interactions. The course prepares students to operate common X-ray control panels. Learners who complete a radiographic physics course gain in-depth knowledge of their field's technical aspects.
Scholarships for Associate in Radiology Students
Enrollees of associate in radiology programs qualify for several scholarships. These opportunities help offset the cost of a degree. Learners may also qualify for state-sponsored grants or federal financial aid. The list below describes three scholarships for students in radiology programs.
Scholarships for Associate in Radiology Students
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Health Professions Scholarship of Excellence |
$1,000 |
The Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions sponsors this annual scholarship for students pursuing degrees in allied health professions, including radiography. Applicants must submit a current resume, a short essay, and a nomination letter from their school. |
Royce Osborn Minority Student Scholarship |
$4,000 |
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists awards five annual scholarships to minority students in entry-level programs in radiology, sonography, and other diagnostic imaging fields. |
Anne Jones Scholarship Program |
Up to $2,500 |
Students specializing in vascular ultrasound technology may apply for this scholarship. Applicants must hold Society for Vascular Ultrasound membership and attend an accredited institution. Eligibility requirements include a 3.5 GPA and U.S. citizenship. |
Professional Organizations for Radiology Students
Professional organizations provide radiology students with opportunities to build their careers through networking and professional development. Associations connect students with professionals and offer advice on licensing and career advancement. Members also benefit from access to discounts and special events. The organizations below feature memberships for students in radiology programs.
The ASRT offers discounted memberships to students in radiology programs. Membership includes access to practice exams for industry certifications, career assistance, and professional compliance resources. The society hosts regular events including conferences and webinars. Members benefit from the society's continuing education program.
AHRA supports medical imaging professionals with networking opportunities, scholarships, and continuing education. Members gain access to a robust online forum, local area meet-ups, and society publications. The association organizes several annual conferences and events for both students and professionals.
This international organization provides students and radiology professionals with access to conferences, newsletters, and research awards. It unites radiology societies around the world through advocacy and education. The association hosts an annual international congress.
Best Associate in Radiology Programs
#1 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
Olney Central College
- Olney, IL
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Olney, Illinois, Olney Central College is a public postsecondary school. The school's online programs emphasize affordability and accessibility. The flexibility of online learning often benefits learners with personal or professional responsibilities. Students pursuing an associate in radiography complete foundational coursework and field-specific classes. The program’s website provides information about other requirements. The school's advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff help distance learners meet degree requirements. In addition to classroom work, associate programs involve hands-on experiences.
To qualify for high-level roles, associate degree-holders can earn a four-year degree. An associate degree qualifies holders for many entry-level positions. Learners pay low per-credit tuition rates while earning their associate degree from the institution. After factoring in financial aid, degree-seekers pay $7,205 on average to attend the school. The cost-effective two-year radiology program also helps learners who are seeking a bachelor's degree save money.
Olney Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an independent, regional accrediting agency.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
Southern Crescent Technical College
- Griffin, GA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution in Griffin, Georgia, Southern Crescent Technical College offers on-campus and online degrees. As one of its four online associate programs, degree-seekers can enroll in the associate of applied science in radiologic technology program. Prospective students with a high school or GED diploma can enroll in the online radiology program. The school may require placement tests for some incoming learners. Applicants work with admission advisors to determine the necessary steps to enroll.
The radiology program uses a flexible format that appeals to degree-seekers with a busy schedule. Enrollees benefit from the program's asynchronous course options, which let learners complete courses on their schedule.
Credits earned at the accredited institution often transfer into four-year colleges and universities. The school's articulation agreements with four-year colleges mean that graduates can transfer more of their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Southern Crescent Technical College Facts:
Online Enrollment: 2,551
Percent of Students Admitted: Not Known
Percent of Students who Earn a Bachelor's Degree: 43%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,400
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,800
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
Southern Regional Technical College
- Thomasville, GA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Southern Regional Technical College enrolls students on its Thomasville, Georgia, campus. The school's three online associate programs include an associate of applied science in radiologic technology. Applicants can enroll in the two-year program with a high school diploma or the equivalent. Admitted students may take placement exams to determine the courses required for graduation. Enrollees can also choose to submit their SAT or ACT scores.
Working students benefit from the radiology program's flexible online schedule. The program's asynchronous classes let learners complete coursework at any time, from any place.
Associate degree-holders can pursue radiology careers or transfer into a bachelor's program. The school's articulation agreements with four-year colleges mean that graduates can transfer more of their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Southern Regional Technical College Fast Facts:
Online Enrollment: 2,587
Student Acceptance Rate: Unavailable
Graduation Percentage: 32%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,400
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,800
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
- Paducah, KY
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution in Paducah, West Kentucky Community and Technical College offers on-campus and online degrees. Students seeking an online degree can enroll in the associate in radiography program, one of the school's six online associate programs. Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent. The program may administer placement tests for some incoming students. The program provides additional information about admission requirements and start dates.
The radiology program uses a flexible learning format that appeals to working professionals. The program offers asynchronous courses that let learners complete assignments on their own schedule.
After completing a radiology associate degree, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program. The accredited institution maintains articulation agreements with four-year colleges, making it easier for graduates to apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
West Kentucky Community and Technical College Numbers:
Online Enrollment: 2,460
Student Acceptance Rate: Unavailable
Rate of Undergraduate Graduation: 53%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,176
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,616
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
Owensboro Community and Technical College
- Owensboro, KY
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Owensboro, Kentucky, Owensboro Community and Technical College is a public school that offers an associate in radiography. The school's online programs emphasize affordability and accessibility. Many students benefit from the flexibility of online learning formats. Associate programs require foundational coursework and field-specific classes. Prospective students can find graduation requirements on the school's website. Associate degree-seekers gain hands-on expertise in a technical field. Student support services help learners succeed academically. Degree-seekers can pursue professional tutoring to improve their academic performance.
To qualify for high-level roles, associate degree-holders can earn a four-year degree. An associate degree qualifies holders for many entry-level positions. The school charges associate degree-seekers affordable per-credit tuition rates. Degree-seekers often qualify for financial aid. Applicants to associate programs should have graduated high school or passed the GED.
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
Zane State College
- Zanesville, OH
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Zane State College offers affordable associate degrees from its campus in Zanesville, Ohio. The institution delivers accessible educational programs, including an associate in radiologic technology. Flexible online associate programs allow learners to complete coursework at their convenience. Associate-level curricula include general education and major classes. Prospective students can review the school's website to become familiar with graduation requirements. Associate-level curricula feature hands-on training components. The school provides student support services for online and on-campus learners. Enrollees can access peer tutoring to excel in their classes.
Associate degree-holders can also transfer to a four-year institution. An associate degree qualifies holders for entry-level roles in many fields. Learners pay low per-credit tuition rates while earning their associate degree from the institution. After factoring in financial aid, students pay $6,385 on average to attend the school. The two-year program also helps learners pursuing a bachelor's degree to save money.
Zane State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
Oconee Fall Line Technical College
- Sandersville, GA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Oconee Fall Line Technical College is located in Sandersville, Georgia. The postsecondary institution features 17 in-person associate programs and four online associate programs. In two years, online students can finish the associate in radiologic technology program and earn their degree. The school's advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff help online learners. In addition to classroom work, associate programs involve hands-on experiences such as internships.
Graduates can also transfer to a four-year school after earning their associate degree. An associate degree qualifies holders for entry-level roles in many fields. Enrollees pay an affordable per-credit rate. After factoring in financial aid, learners pay an average of $6,730 to attend the school.
Oconee Fall Line Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online Associate In Radiology Programs
Hazard Community and Technical College
- Hazard, KY
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Hazard, Kentucky, Hazard Community and Technical College operates as a public institution. Students can gain admission to the two-year associate in radiography program with a high school or GED diploma. The program may administer placement tests for some incoming students. The school's admission advisors help incoming students enroll in the radiology program.
The distance learning format appeals to students who require a flexible schedule. The school offers asynchronous classes that let learners complete coursework at any time of day.
An associate degree in radiology prepares learners for the workforce or a four-year degree. The school maintains articulation agreements with four-year colleges, which means that graduates can transfer more credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Hazard Community and Technical College Numbers:
Online Enrollment: 1,559
Percent of Applicants Admitted: N/A
Undergrad Graduation Rate: 36%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,176
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,616
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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