Top 10 Radiographer Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for radiographers. Certifications demonstrate to employers that a radiographer has the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform their job safely and effectively. They also provide employers with assurance that the radiographer is up-to-date on current standards and practices in the field. Additionally, certifications can provide a competitive advantage when applying for jobs, as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and continuing education. Finally, certifications can open up new career opportunities and may be required for certain positions or advanced roles.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Radiographers and explains how they can help to advance a radiographer's career.

What are Radiographer Certifications?

Radiographer certification is a form of professional recognition that shows a radiographer has the necessary knowledge and skills to practice in their field. This certification is awarded by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) after an individual has successfully passed an exam demonstrating their proficiency in radiography.

Radiographer certification provides employers with assurance that a radiographer has met the standards set forth by ARRT, and thus can be trusted to perform their job competently. Additionally, this certification can help radiographers advance their careers, as many employers prefer to hire certified professionals. It also demonstrates to patients that they are receiving care from someone who is knowledgeable and experienced in the field.

In addition to providing career benefits, radiographer certification may also allow individuals to receive higher pay than uncertified professionals in the same field. This is because certified radiographers typically have more experience than those without certification and may be able to offer more specialized services or expertise. This can help them command higher salaries or fees for their services.

Pro Tip: To become certified as a radiographer, make sure to complete all of the necessary educational requirements and clinical training. Additionally, it's important to stay up-to-date on any changes in the certification process and take continuing education courses to maintain your certification.

Related: What does a Radiographer do?

Top 10 Radiographer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Radiographers today.

1. American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Certification

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is a nonprofit organization that certifies and registers radiologic technologists in the United States. ARRT certification is recognized by most employers as a sign of quality and professionalism in the field.

To become certified, individuals must first complete an accredited educational program in radiologic technology. Once they have completed their education, they can apply to take the ARRT exam. The exam covers topics such as radiation safety, patient care, imaging procedures, and medical ethics.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $200 for members of ARRT or $300 for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants must meet additional requirements such as completing continuing education credits each year to maintain their certification status.

In addition to taking the exam, applicants must also submit an application form with proof of completion of their educational program and any other required documents. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their ARRT certification within 6-8 weeks after submitting their application materials.

Overall, obtaining ARRT certification requires dedication and hard work but is well worth it for those who wish to pursue a career in radiologic technology.

2. American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) Certification

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) certification is a credential that demonstrates the highest level of professional achievement for radiologic technologists. It is an internationally recognized symbol of excellence and a testament to the commitment and dedication to patient care and safety.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having completed an accredited program in radiography or radiation therapy, passing the ARRT certification examination, and maintaining continuing education credits. The certification process typically takes four to six months from start to finish.

To get started, applicants must first submit an application with the ASRT Certification Department. This includes providing proof of educational qualifications, passing scores on the ARRT certification exam, and submitting fees for both the exam and application. Once approved by the ASRT Certification Department, applicants will be able to take their exam at a local testing center.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which type of certification you are seeking. The total cost can range anywhere from $200-$400 USD for initial applications and exams. Renewal fees may also apply every two years depending on your chosen specialty area.

3. Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) Certification

The Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) is a non-profit organization that certifies qualified professionals in the field of nuclear medicine technology. It is an independent, third-party organization that sets standards and evaluates the qualifications of individuals who wish to become certified nuclear medicine technologists.

NMTCB certification requires applicants to have completed an accredited program in nuclear medicine technology, as well as pass a comprehensive written exam. The exam consists of two parts: a general section which covers topics such as radiation safety and medical terminology, and a specialty section which focuses on specific areas of nuclear medicine technology.

The process of obtaining NMTCB certification typically takes between four and six months. During this time, applicants must complete their application for certification, take the written exam, submit all required documentation, and pay the applicable fees.

In order to apply for NMTCB certification, applicants must have completed an accredited program in nuclear medicine technology from an institution recognized by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Applicants must also submit official transcripts from their program along with their application form.

The cost for NMTCB certification varies depending on the type of examination taken and other factors such as whether or not the applicant is already registered with ARRT. In general, the cost ranges from $200 to $400 USD.

4. Cardiovascular Interventional Radiography (CI-CERT) Certification

Cardiovascular Interventional Radiography (CI-CERT) Certification is a certification program for radiographers who specialize in the field of cardiovascular interventional radiology. This certification is offered by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT).

The CI-CERT program is designed to recognize and reward those radiographers who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in performing cardiovascular interventional procedures. The program also provides an opportunity for radiographers to demonstrate their commitment to continuing education and professional development.

To receive the CI-CERT, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a minimum of two years of experience in cardiovascular interventional radiology, passing a comprehensive examination, and completing at least 20 hours of continuing education related to the specialty within three years prior to application. Applicants must also be certified by the ARRT or an equivalent organization.

The cost of the CI-CERT exam is $300 plus any applicable taxes. The exam can be taken online or at a testing center. It typically takes about four hours to complete the exam. Once all requirements have been met and the exam has been passed, applicants will receive their CI-CERT certificate within four weeks.

The CI-CERT certification is valid for five years from date of issue and can be renewed through reexamination or proof of continued education credits related to cardiovascular interventional radiology.

5. Computed Tomography (CT-CERT) Certification

Computed Tomography (CT-CERT) Certification is a certification program offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). It is designed to recognize radiologic technologists who demonstrate proficiency in the use of computed tomography imaging technology. The certification is valid for five years and requires continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain.

To become certified, individuals must complete an approved CT training program or have at least two years of full-time experience in CT imaging and pass the ARRT CT examination. The cost of the exam is $200, and it takes approximately four hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants must submit an application form to ARRT along with a fee of $50 for processing. Upon successful completion of all requirements, applicants will receive their CT-CERT certification.

6. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI-CERT) Certification

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI-CERT) certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of expertise in the field of magnetic resonance imaging. The MRI-CERT program is offered by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

The MRI-CERT certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as patient safety, image acquisition and interpretation, and clinical applications. Applicants must also submit proof of their experience in the field, including documentation of at least two years of clinical experience in magnetic resonance imaging.

The MRI-CERT exam typically takes four hours to complete and can be taken either online or in person. The exam fee varies depending on the location, but typically ranges between $400 and $500.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their official certificate from the ACR within six weeks. The certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking the recertification exam or completing continuing education activities.

In order to maintain certification, individuals must fulfill certain requirements each year such as completing at least 10 hours of continuing education activities related to magnetic resonance imaging or passing a recertification examination every five years.

7. Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) Certification

The Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) Certification is a program that was established by the United States Congress in 1992 to ensure that all mammography facilities meet certain standards of quality. The MQSA Certification requires facilities to have certified personnel, meet equipment requirements, and adhere to specific quality assurance and quality control procedures.

It typically takes between 6-8 weeks for a facility to receive their MQSA certification after submitting an application and having it reviewed by the FDA. To get MQSA certification, a facility must submit an application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The application must include information about the facility’s personnel, equipment, and quality assurance/quality control protocols.

The cost of obtaining MQSA certification varies depending on the size of the facility and other factors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 for a small facility to obtain their certification.

8. Radiation Therapy (RT-CERT) Certification

Radiation Therapy (RT-CERT) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of radiation therapists. The RT-CERT program was developed by the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) in collaboration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The certification is available to radiation therapists who have completed an accredited educational program and are currently practicing in the field.

The RT-CERT program consists of two parts: a written exam and a clinical practicum. The written exam covers topics such as radiation safety, patient care, imaging techniques, treatment planning, and more. The clinical practicum requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to perform various tasks related to radiation therapy.

The RT-CERT program takes approximately 6 months to complete from start to finish. Candidates must first apply for the certification through ASTRO's website and pay a fee of $250 USD. After submitting their application, candidates will be required to take both the written exam and clinical practicum within six months of applying for certification. Once all requirements have been met, candidates will receive their RT-CERT certificate from ASTRO.

The cost of obtaining RT-CERT certification varies depending on each candidate's individual circumstances; however, it typically costs between $500-$1,000 USD total when including fees for both the written exam and clinical practicum.

9. Sonography Principles & Instrumentation Exam (SPIE) Certification

The Sonography Principles & Instrumentation Exam (SPIE) is a certification exam offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). It is designed to assess a sonographer’s knowledge of ultrasound principles, instrumentation, and safety. The SPIE certification is required for sonographers who wish to become certified in any of the ARDMS specialties.

The SPIE exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. The cost of the exam varies by location but typically ranges from $300-$400 USD.

In order to take the SPIE exam, you must first meet the eligibility requirements as outlined by ARDMS. This includes completing an accredited educational program in diagnostic medical sonography and having at least one year of clinical experience in ultrasound imaging or completion of an approved fellowship program. Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for the exam through ARDMS’s website. After your application has been approved, you will receive instructions on how to register for the test and pay the associated fees.

Once you have passed the SPIE exam, you will be eligible to pursue additional specialty certifications from ARDMS such as Abdomen, Breast Ultrasound, Fetal Echocardiography, Neurosonology, Obstetrics/Gynecology Ultrasound, and Vascular Technology.

10. Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation Exam (UPIE) Certification

Ultrasound Physics and Instrumentation Exam (UPIE) Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that individuals who work in the field of ultrasound technology have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their job duties safely and effectively. The UPIE exam is administered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS).

The UPIE exam consists of two parts: an online written examination and a hands-on practical examination. The written portion of the exam covers topics such as ultrasound physics, instrumentation, safety, patient care, and other related topics. The practical portion involves performing actual ultrasound scans on a phantom or live patient. To pass the UPIE exam, candidates must score at least 75% on both portions of the exam.

It typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete the entire process of taking and passing the UPIE exam. The cost of taking the UPIE exam varies depending on which testing center you choose to take it at, but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. In order to take the UPIE exam, you must first register with ARDMS and submit all required documentation including proof of education and experience in ultrasound technology. Once your registration has been approved, you can then schedule your test date with a local testing center.

Do You Really Need a Radiographer Certificate?

Yes, a radiographer certificate is necessary for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in radiography. Radiographers are professionals who use X-rays and other imaging technologies to diagnose and treat medical conditions. They are important members of the healthcare team, as they provide crucial information that helps physicians make informed decisions about patient care.

Radiographers must possess a combination of technical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and an understanding of anatomy and physiology. To become certified as a radiographer, one must attend an accredited program at a college or university and pass both written and clinical exams. The certification process ensures that radiographers maintain the high standards necessary to practice safely and effectively in their field.

Having a radiographer certificate is also beneficial for job seekers looking to move up into higher positions within the field. Having a certificate shows potential employers that you have taken the time to complete formal training in your chosen field, which can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Additionally, having certification can open up more job opportunities and may even lead to higher salaries than those without certification.

In summary, obtaining a radiographer certificate is essential for anyone wishing to pursue a career in radiography. It not only demonstrates your commitment to the profession but also provides evidence of your qualifications to potential employers. With proper training, certifications can help you advance within the field and give you access to more job opportunities with higher salaries than those without certification.

Related: Radiographer Resume Examples

FAQs About Radiographer Certifications

1. What is a Radiographer Certification?

A: A Radiographer Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the field of radiography. This certification is typically earned by completing an accredited radiology program and passing the appropriate exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

2. How do I become certified as a Radiographer?

A: To become certified as a Radiographer, you must first complete an accredited radiologic technology program, such as those offered by community colleges or universities. Once this program has been completed, you must then pass the ARRT exam in order to be eligible for certification.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Radiographer?

A: Yes, there are several prerequisites for becoming certified as a Radiographer, including completion of high school coursework in mathematics and science and completion of an accredited radiologic technology program.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Radiographer?

A: The time it takes to become certified as a Radiographer varies depending on individual circumstances; however, most individuals are able to complete their education and pass the ARRT exam within two years or less.

5. What benefits come with being certified as a Radiographer?

A: Being certified as a Radiographer can provide numerous benefits, including improved job security and increased earning potential. Additionally, having this credential may also make you eligible for higher-level positions within your organization or other organizations that require certification from its employees.