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What does a Radiology do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A radiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using imaging techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound.

Radiology job duties include:

  • Position patients and select anatomic landmarks.
  • Adjust and maintain equipment.
  • Develop x-ray film.
  • Evaluate x-rays for technical quality.
  • Keep records of examinations.
  • Consult with physicians and other health care professionals.
  • Prepare patients for procedures.
  • Educate patients about radiologic procedures.
  • Perform administrative duties.

Radiology Job Requirements

Radiology is the branch of medicine that uses medical imaging to diagnose and treat diseases within the human body. A radiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries using medical imaging techniques, such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound.

In order to become a radiologist, one must first complete a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of medical school. After completing medical school, a radiologist must then complete a one-year internship and a four-year residency program in radiology. Once these requirements have been met, a radiologist must obtain a state medical license in order to practice medicine. In addition, many radiologists choose to pursue board certification through the American Board of Radiology.

Radiology Skills

  • X-ray
  • Computed Tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Mammography
  • Ultrasound
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Interventional Radiology
  • Diagnostic Radiology
  • Neuroradiology
  • Cardiovascular Radiology
  • Pediatric Radiology

Related: Top Radiology Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Radiology

There are many ways to become a radiology. The most common way is to attend an accredited radiology school and then complete a four-year residency program in radiology. Some schools offer five-year programs that include a year of clinical training. Alternatively, some students choose to complete a two-year associate's degree in radiologic technology and then complete a two-year residency program in radiology.

Radiology is a field of medicine that uses imaging techniques to diagnose and treat diseases. Common imaging modalities used in radiology include X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. Radiologists use these imaging modalities to visualize the inside of the human body without making any incisions.

Becoming a radiologist requires completing an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree program in radiology. Students interested in pursuing a career in radiology should take courses in physics, mathematics, and biology. After completing an undergraduate or graduate degree program, students must then complete a four-year residency program in radiology at an accredited hospital. During the residency program, residents will receive training in all aspects of diagnostic radiology including image interpretation, radiation safety, and patient care. Upon completion of the residency program, radiologists must obtain a license to practice medicine from their state medical board.

Related: Radiology Resume Example

Related: Radiology Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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