Top 10 Radiology Technician Certifications

Certifications for radiology technicians are important in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job effectively. In addition, certifications can help a radiology technician stand out among other applicants and make them more attractive to potential employers. Certification also provides assurance to employers that the technician is up-to-date on the latest technology and trends in radiology. Lastly, certifications may be required for certain positions or promotions within a healthcare facility, so having certification can help open up opportunities for career advancement.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Radiology Technicians and explains how they can contribute to a successful career in the field.

What are Radiology Technician Certifications?

Radiology technician certification is a form of credentialing that demonstrates that an individual has met certain educational and professional requirements to work in the field. It is awarded by a certifying body, such as the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), after completion of an accredited program, passing a comprehensive exam, and meeting continuing education requirements.

Having radiology technician certification can provide numerous benefits to those working in the field. It acts as evidence of knowledge and experience, which can increase job security and potential for promotion. Additionally, certified radiologic technologists may have access to higher salaries and more desirable jobs than those without certification. Certification also serves to demonstrate commitment to the profession and provides credibility when interacting with patients, employers, and colleagues. Finally, it helps ensure quality patient care by providing assurance that technologists possess the necessary skills to perform their duties safely and accurately.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the certifications and qualifications required for radiology technician certification before applying. Different states have different requirements, so be sure you understand what is expected of you in your area. Additionally, some employers may require additional certifications or qualifications beyond those required by the state, so make sure to check with potential employers to ensure you meet their requirements.

Related: What does a Radiology Technician do?

Top 10 Radiology Technician Certifications

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

1. American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is a professional organization that certifies and registers radiologic technologists in the United States. It is the largest credentialing organization for radiologic technologists, with over 300,000 members. ARRT certification is recognized by most employers as a standard of excellence in the field.

To become certified by ARRT, applicants must meet certain education and ethics requirements and pass an exam. Depending on the type of certification sought, applicants may need to hold an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited program in radiography, nuclear medicine technology, radiation therapy, sonography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Applicants must also complete continuing education credits every two years to maintain their certification.

The ARRT exam takes about four hours to complete and costs $200 for members and $250 for non-members. The cost includes a registration fee and testing fees. To register for the exam, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts and proof of completion of clinical experience. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to schedule the exam at an approved testing center.

In addition to the initial certification fee, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 for members and $75 for non-members which covers continuing education credits and other services provided by ARRT.

2. American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)

The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) is a professional organization that provides certification, education, and advocacy for radiologic technologists. It was founded in 1920 and currently has over 150,000 members. The ASRT offers various certifications in the field of radiologic technology, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Mammography, Ultrasound, and Nuclear Medicine.

To obtain an ASRT certification, you must first complete an accredited program in radiologic technology or nuclear medicine technology. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass the ARRT exam to become certified. The exam consists of two parts: a written exam and a clinical skills assessment. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, radiation safety, patient care procedures, imaging techniques, and medical ethics. The clinical skills assessment tests your ability to perform basic radiologic procedures.

The cost of the ASRT certification varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 for the written exam and $300-$500 for the clinical skills assessment. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams such as application fees or registration fees.

Once you have successfully passed both parts of the ARRT exam and paid all applicable fees, you will receive your ASRT certification which is valid for two years from the date of issue.

3. Certified Radiology Technician (CRT)

Certified Radiology Technician (CRT) is a certification for healthcare professionals who specialize in the use of imaging technology to diagnose and treat medical conditions. This certification is issued by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

To become a Certified Radiology Technician, individuals must first complete an accredited program in radiologic technology. After completing the program, they must pass an exam administered by the ARRT. The exam consists of two parts: a written and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, radiation safety, patient care and positioning, imaging procedures and equipment operation. The practical portion requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge by performing various radiographic tasks.

Once applicants have successfully passed the exam, they receive their CRT certification from ARRT. This certification is valid for five years and can be renewed through continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

The cost of obtaining a CRT certification varies depending on the state in which you live and the program you attend. Generally speaking, it will cost between $2,000-$3,000 to obtain your CRT certification.

4. Computed Tomography (CT) Certification

Computed Tomography (CT) Certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of CT imaging. It is designed to demonstrate a level of competency in the use of CT scanners, as well as related safety protocols and patient care practices. The certification is available through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

In order to become certified in CT, you must complete an ARRT-approved educational program, pass both the ARRT certification exam and a state licensing exam, and meet any other requirements set by your state. Generally, it takes about two years to complete all these steps.

To get started on your path to becoming certified in CT, you will need to find an accredited educational program that offers courses in CT technology. You can search for programs on the ARRT website or contact local hospitals or universities for more information. Once you have completed your education program, you will need to take and pass both the ARRT certification exam and a state licensing exam before being eligible for certification.

The cost of getting certified in CT varies depending on where you live and what type of program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000-$10,000 or more depending on the length of the program and other factors such as books and materials needed.

5. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certification

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Certification is a certification program that allows healthcare professionals to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of MRI technology. The program is designed to help healthcare professionals stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in MRI technology and to ensure they are able to safely and effectively operate MRI equipment.

In order to obtain an MRI Certification, individuals must complete a training program that is accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The training program typically consists of completing coursework, passing a written exam, and completing clinical experience hours. Depending on the individual's background and experience, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete the requirements for certification.

To get started with the certification process, individuals should contact their state licensing board or ARRT for information about approved programs and requirements. Once an individual has completed all of the necessary coursework, they must then pass a written exam administered by ARRT. After passing this exam, individuals must also complete clinical experience hours before they can be officially certified as an MRI technologist.

The cost for obtaining an MRI Certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen, but generally ranges from $500-$3,000 USD. This cost includes tuition fees for coursework as well as any additional costs associated with taking the ARRT exam or completing clinical experience hours.

6. Mammography Certification

Mammography Certification is a certification program for mammography technologists that is administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The program is designed to ensure that mammographers have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality care to patients.

The certification process begins with an application to ARRT. After submitting the application, applicants must complete a Mammography Education Program approved by ARRT. This education program typically consists of didactic and clinical components, which can be completed in as little as two months or as long as two years depending on the program. Once the education requirements are met, applicants must pass a certification exam administered by ARRT.

The cost of Mammography Certification varies depending on the specific program chosen. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $500-$2,000 for tuition and fees associated with completing the education portion of the certification process. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $200 that must be paid at the time of registration for the certification exam.

Overall, Mammography Certification is an important credential for those interested in pursuing a career in mammography technology. It demonstrates that they have achieved a high level of competency in this field and are committed to providing quality care to patients.

7. Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification

Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification is a certification program that is designed to provide Nuclear Medicine Technologists with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively administer radioactive materials for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. This certification is offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

To obtain this certification, individuals must first complete an accredited nuclear medicine technology program. Upon successful completion of the program, applicants must then pass the ARRT's Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Examination. The exam consists of both a written and practical component and covers topics such as radiation safety, imaging procedures, pharmacology, instrumentation, patient care, quality assurance, and professional ethics.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on the individual's location but typically ranges from $200-$400. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining a state license or registering with the ARRT. The time it takes to get certified varies based on individual circumstances; however, most people are able to complete the process within one year.

8. Radiation Therapy Certification

Radiation Therapy Certification is a credential that shows that an individual has met the qualifications necessary to become a radiation therapist. It is awarded by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and requires an individual to have completed an accredited educational program in radiation therapy, have passed the ARRT certification exam, and meet all other requirements set forth by the ARRT.

The process of becoming certified typically takes about two years. During this time, individuals must complete their educational program and pass both the ARRT certification exam and any other state-specific exams required for licensure. Once these steps are completed, individuals can apply for certification with the ARRT.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the individual’s educational program and state licensure requirements. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 to become certified. This cost includes application fees, exam fees, and any additional costs associated with obtaining state licensure.

Overall, Radiation Therapy Certification is a valuable credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in radiation therapy. It is important for those interested in pursuing a career in this field to understand the process of becoming certified as well as the associated costs.

9. Vascular-Interventional Radiology Technology Certification

Vascular-Interventional Radiology Technology Certification is a certification program that is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of medical imaging professionals who specialize in interventional radiology. This certification is offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

It typically takes about six months to complete the Vascular-Interventional Radiology Technology Certification program. In order to become certified, you must first pass an exam that covers topics such as patient care, radiation safety, and image interpretation. After passing the exam, you will then be required to submit a portfolio of your work experience and education. The ARRT will review your portfolio and determine if you meet their standards for certification.

In order to get Vascular-Interventional Radiology Technology Certification, you must first register with the ARRT. The registration fee for this program is $200. Once registered, you will receive study materials and access to practice exams which can help prepare you for the actual certification exam.

The cost of taking the Vascular-Interventional Radiology Technology Certification exam varies depending on where it is taken and how many times it needs to be taken in order to pass. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 per attempt.

10. Cardiac Interventional Radiology Technology Certification

Cardiac Interventional Radiology Technology Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of medical professionals who specialize in interventional radiology technology. This certification is offered by the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) and is recognized as the gold standard for interventional radiologists.

The certification process consists of two parts: an initial application and a written examination. The initial application requires applicants to provide evidence of their education, training, and experience in the field of interventional radiology. Once accepted, applicants must pass a written examination that covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, imaging techniques, radiation safety, patient care, and clinical decision-making.

The entire certification process typically takes about six months to complete. Applicants must submit their applications at least four months prior to the scheduled exam date. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certification from SIR.

The cost of obtaining Cardiac Interventional Radiology Technology Certification varies depending on which organization you are applying through. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500-$2,000 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam itself.

Do You Really Need a Radiology Technician Certificate?

The short answer is yes. Becoming a radiology technician requires specialized knowledge and skills that can only be obtained through education and training. A radiology technician certificate is the best way to demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your level of competence in the field.

Radiology technicians work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, imaging centers, and other health care settings to operate diagnostic imaging equipment such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRIs, and ultrasounds. To become a successful radiology technician, you must have a solid understanding of anatomy and physiology as well as an ability to use sophisticated equipment safely and accurately. You must also be able to follow instructions from doctors and interpret images correctly.

A radiology technician certificate provides proof that you have met the minimum standards for certification in the profession. It demonstrates that you have completed all of the necessary training requirements including classroom instruction, clinical experience, and national certification exams. With a certificate in hand you will be more attractive to potential employers who are looking for qualified candidates with a proven track record of success.

In addition to being a valuable job credential, a radiology technician certificate can open up new career opportunities. For example, many employers offer tuition reimbursement or other incentives for employees who pursue further education in their fields. Having a certificate may also qualify you for higher-level positions such as supervisor or lead technologist roles where additional responsibilities come with higher pay scales.

In conclusion, having a radiology technician certificate is essential if you want to become successful in this field. The certificate serves as proof of your knowledge level and dedication to the profession which can help you stand out from other applicants when seeking employment or promotions within your current organization. Ultimately it is an important tool for helping you reach your professional goals both now and in the future.

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FAQs About Radiology Technician Certifications

1. What is a Radiology Technician Certification?

Answer: A Radiology Technician Certification is a credential that verifies a technician's knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of radiologic technology. It demonstrates mastery of the core concepts and techniques used in imaging and radiation therapy, as well as specialized areas such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must complete an accredited radiology technician program and pass an exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Depending on your state, you may also need to obtain a license or certification from your state’s board of medical imaging.

3. What are the different types of certifications available?

Answer: The ARRT offers several certifications for radiologic technologists, including Radiography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Nuclear Medicine Technology (NMT), Sonography, Radiation Therapy, Computed Tomography (CT), Mammography, Quality Management (QM) and Vascular Interventional Radiography (VIR).

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on the type of certification being pursued. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on the program chosen. Additionally, some states require additional licensing before granting certification in certain specialty areas such as MRI or CT.

5. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Becoming certified can open up new career opportunities with higher salaries and better job security. It can also provide recognition within the field and help make employers more confident in your abilities as a radiologic technologist. In addition, some employers may offer tuition assistance for certification exams or continuing education courses related to your specialty area.