Radiography

What is Radiography?

The WKCTC Radiography Program prepares the individual to become a radiographer. The radiographer is prepared to administer ionizing radiation (x-rays) for medical diagnostic imaging purposes. Emphasis is on radiation protection and quality patient care. The curriculum is comprised of specialized courses in radiography with concentrated study in the basic sciences, mathematics and general education. Students enrolled in the Radiography program must achieve a minimum grade of "C" in each Radiography course. Upon completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to apply for the examination for registration as a radiographer by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.  Students must pass the national certification exam to become registered. State licensure is required in some states.  The Commonwealth of Kentucky requires radiographers to be state licensed through the Kentucky Board of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy. 

Radiography Program Mission, Program Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

Mission:  West Kentucky Community and Technical College Radiography Program’s mission is to prepare students for a career as a diagnostic radiographer by providing a continually improving educational program that allows graduates to meet the needs of a diverse patient population in an ethical and compassionate manner.

Program Goals and Student Learning Outcomes:

Goal 1:  Students will demonstrate clinical competence.
            Student Learning Outcomes:
                    1.1 – Students will demonstrate competence in positioning skills.
                    1.2 – Students will demonstrate radiation protection.
                    1.3 – Students will select appropriate technical factors.

Goal 2: Students will demonstrate communication skills.
           Student Learning Outcomes:
                    2.1 – Students will demonstrate written communication skills.
                    2.2 – Students will demonstrate oral communication skills.

Goal 3:  Students will demonstrate critical thinking skills.
            Student Learning Outcomes:
                    3.1 – Students will adapt standard procedures for non-routine patients.
                    3.2 – Students will critique images to determine diagnostic quality.

Goal 4:  Students will demonstrate professional growth and development.
            Student Learning Outcomes:
                    4.1 – Students will demonstrate professional work ethic.
                    4.2 - Students will summarize the value of lifelong learning.

Program Effectiveness Outcomes:
     1.  Students will complete the program in 24 months.
     2. Graduates will express satisfaction with their education
     3. Graduates will pass the ARRT certification exam on first attempt.
     4. Graduates will be gainfully employed within 12 months post-graduation.
     5. Employers will express satisfaction with program graduates as entry-level
         radiographers.

What are my career options?

Many radiographers specialize in Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Mammography and Cardiovascular Imaging. Some radiographers will continue their education tospecialize in Medical Diagnostic Sonography, Radiation Therapy and Nuclear Medicine.

A few examples of workplaces in your local area:

• Hospitals
• Imaging centers
• Physician offices

What are my degree, diploma, or certificate options?

Associate Degree in Applied Science

Associate Degree Radiography Pathway 3 | Download the academic plan | Download the interactive guide (xlsx)

An associate degree is an undergraduate academic degree awarded upon completion of a course of study usually lasting two years.

Certificate(s)

Advanced Imaging in Radiography | Download the Academic Plan
Students must be registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) or the NMTCB. Consent of instructor is required to be enrolled in Advanced Imaging in Radiography.

A certificate is earned by a student after taking a series of courses in a particular subject. Students often earn certificates to get a step ahead in the professional field of their interest, and certificates may be offered in similar programs leading to degrees.

Length of Program and Other Information

It will take a minimum of 6 semesters to get an associate degree in Radiography.

The curriculum includes attendance of on-campus courses and clinical experience in area hospitals.  CPR certification at healthcare provider level, proof of immunizations, background checks, and drug screens are required after a student is admitted and prior to starting the first semester of the radiography program. In addition, clinical experience requires travel to a hospital outside of Paducah, KY. Clinical locations in Kentucky include: Paducah, Mayfield, Murray, Benton, Princeton, and Marion, KY. Clinical locations outside of Kentucky are: Martin, TN and Metropolis, IL.

For length of time to get a diploma or certificate AND for a complete list of required courses:
click on "What credentials are available?" to access specific academic plans.

How to Apply

Pre-Admission Conference

A pre-admission conference must be attended to apply to the program. All conferences are at 4:00 p.m. in Allied Health Building, Room E105. The pre-admission conference dates for the Fall 2021 class selection are:

• Tuesday, March 31, 2020 - CANCELED
  
• Tuesday, August 25, 2020
• Tuesday, October 20, 2020
• Tuesday, January 26, 2021

Additional Resources / Training

• Selective Admission Points
• www.arrt.org
• www.asrt.org
• www.jrcert.org
• www.kbmirt.ky.gov
• www.ksrtinc.com
• www.rsna.org
• www.radiologytoday.net
• Download HIPAA Training Information
• Download Bloodborne Pathogens Training Information
• Visit CastleBranch

Field Licensure Requirements

In addition to completing the program, students must pass the national certification exam to become registered. State licensure is required in some states. CPR certification at healthcare provider level, proof of immunizations, background checks, and drug screens are required after a student is admitted and prior to starting the first semester of the program.

Accreditation/Program Effectiveness

The Radiography Program at West Kentucky Community and Technical College is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

The JRCERT is the only agency recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE)for the accreditation of traditional and distance delivery educational programs in radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance, and medical dosimetry. http://www.jrcert.org/resources/us-department-of-education-recognition/

To learn more, contact the JRCERT at:
Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
Tel: 312-704-5300
Fax: 312-704-5304
mail@jrcert.org
website: www.jrcert.org

Program Effectiveness Data - Licensure, Job-Placement, and Completion Rates

This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.