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Radiography Program

Use and maintain diagnostic equipment with hands-on radiologic technologist training.

25
monthsincluding an off-campus externship
ARRT
Certification Prep
3
locationsLos Angeles, Ontario and Anaheim
Want more details about the Radiography program?

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Radiologic technologist programs prepare graduates to diagnose and treat patients using diagnostic imaging examinations.

As a radiologic technologist–also known as an x-ray tech, radiographer or full-scope technologist–you’ll combine your knowledge of the human body with your technical skills to capture images of what's going on inside your patients' bodies.

Study human anatomy and work with complex equipment as you help support doctors and patients. Earn your radiography associate degree and prepare for a rewarding career.

Looking for the right radiologic technologist school near you? ACC’s program is available at our Los Angeles, Ontario and Anaheim campuses.

This program is taught in a blended format combining online classes with in-person instruction.

Enroll in a Radiography program that sets you up for success. Our training program helps prepare students for the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) exam.

Program approved by the California Department of Public Health, Radiologic Health Branch (CDPH-RHB)

Apply Now Schedule an info session

In ACC's Radiography Program, You'll Learn to:

Learn Learn Operating Equipment

Operate Equipment

Learn to work Computerized Tomography (CT) Imaging equipment to capture images of your patients.

Learn about X-Ray Protection

Protect Patients from X-Rays

Protect patients by shielding exposed areas that do not need to be imaged.

Learn Body Positioning

Position Patients for Scans

Help position patients and the equipment in order to get the best possible image.

Radiography Course List

Learn more about what's in store for you in the Radiography associate of occupational science degree program. For more on radiography courses, visit the college catalog.

General Education Courses

Course Number

Title

Clock Hours

Quarter Credits

ENGL100 Written Communications I 40 4.0
ANAT200 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology 20 2.0
MATH100 College Mathematics I 40 4.0
ANAT200-L Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Lab 40 2.0
PSYC100 Introduction to Psychology 40 4.0
 

Totals

180

16.0

Course Number: ENGL100

Title Written Communications I
Clock Hours40
Quarter Credits 4.0

Course Number: ANAT200

Title Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
Clock Hours20
Quarter Credits 2.0

Course Number: MATH100

Title College Mathematics I
Clock Hours40
Quarter Credits 4.0

Course Number: ANAT200-L

Title Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Lab
Clock Hours40
Quarter Credits 2.0

Course Number: PSYC100

Title Introduction to Psychology
Clock Hours40
Quarter Credits 4.0

TOTALS

Clock Hours

180

Quarter Credits

16.0

Core Courses

Course Number

Title

Clock Hours

Clinical Hours

Quarter Credits

RAD120 Introduction to Radiologic Sciences 10 0 1.0

This introductory course outlines the role of a radiologic technologist, the history of radiology, hospital and imaging department operations and exam reimbursement protocol. Students will be introduced to accreditation, certification, professional organizations, and the policies/regulations for the program.

CAREER200 Career Advantage 20 0 2.0

Career Advantage is a course designed to prepare students to develop career planning and job search skills. Thorough, relevant job search preparation is required to compete successfully for jobs in today's market. To prepare the student, the course will address six areas: resumes, job search process, networking techniques in a job search, interview planning and preparation, communication and workplace skills.

RAD150 Medical Terminology 30 0 3.0

This course is an introduction to basic medical imaging terminology and prepares students for more advanced coursework in subsequent courses by providing an introduction to general medical imaging terminology. Students will study the roots, prefixes, suffixes, and abbreviations as well as general terms and their appropriate usage in medical imaging practice.

RAD220 Radiographic Physics 30 0 3.0

This course provides the needed concepts of how a radiographic image is produced for diagnostic radiography, fluoroscopy, and mobile radiography. Atomic structure, magnetism, electricity and the circuitry of the x-ray unit are covered.

RAD250 Principles of Image Production 70 0 6.0

This course will provide a knowledge base about the factors of x-ray image creation, which will include the equipment accessories and exposure factors that affect the quality of a radiograph. Students will participate in laboratory experiments to enhance the comprehension of image creation concepts.

RAD320 Radiographic Positioning I 60 0 4.0

This course will provide the theory and laboratory practice for students to position patients for radiographic examinations of the respiratory system, abdomen, bony thorax, upper and lower extremities and related joints. Students will also be taught the use of proper radiation protection, and to analyze and critique the produced diagnostic images.

RAD350 Radiation Biology and Protection 70 0 6.0

This course will provide the concepts of proper radiation protection protocols for the general public and imaging personnel. Regulatory agencies, dosage, shielding, and radiation protection principles for radiography, mobile radiography, and fluoroscopy will be explained. Students will perform laboratory experiments to enforce the concepts taught.

RAD370 Digital Imaging 20 0 2.0

This course provides the base knowledge of computer/digital technology and the practical application of use within the radiologic field.

RAD420 Patient Care 40 0 3.0

This course will provide the basic concepts and skills that are required for the appropriate standard of care for patients, which include communication, medical history documentation, and patient assistance. Students will demonstrate competence in taking vital signs and patient transfers. The importance of infection control and the technologists role in medical emergencies will be discussed.

RAD450 Radiographic Positioning II 60 0 4.0

This course will provide the theory and laboratory practice for students to position patients for radiographic examinations of the vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, and sinuses. Students will also be taught the use of proper radiation protection, and to analyze and critique the produced diagnostic images.

RAD470 Law and Ethics in Imaging 20 0 2.0

This course introduces the medico-legal and medical ethics principles of the healthcare profession specific to the imaging profession.

RAD500C Clinical Practicum I 300 300 10.0

This course is a practical application of the concurrent theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, and sinuses to include mobile radiography will be introduced under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

RAD520 Radiographic Positioning III 60 0 4.0

This course will provide the theory and laboratory practice for students to position patients for radiographic examinations of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and special procedures using contrast material. Students will also be taught the use of proper radiation protection, and to analyze and critique the produced diagnostic images.

RAD600C Clinical Practicum II 300 300 10.0

This course is a practical application of the concurrent theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, and extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, and sinuses will continue and competency based assignments for gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast will be introduced under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

RAD620 Pharmacology/Venipuncture 30 0 2.0

This course provides the basic methods for the administration of contrast material and the basic practices of venipuncture for the radiologic technologist. This course meets California Health and Safety Code, Section106985.

RAD700C Clinical Practicum III 300 300 10.0

This course is a practical application of the concurrent theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast will continue and competency based assignments for mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures done under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

RAD720 Introduction to Computed Tomography with Cross Sectional Anatomy 40 0 4.0

This course provides the advanced student with an introduction to the principles and applications of computed tomography (CT) in the imaging department.

RAD800C Clinical Practicum IV 300 300 10.0

This course is a practical application of all theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast, mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures will continue under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

RAD900C Clinical Practicum V 300 300 10.0

This course is a practical application of all theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast, mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures will continue as well as clinical assignments for observing Computed Tomography (CT) under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

RADSEM1 Radiology Seminar I 30 0 3.0

This course is a review of the content specifications that are critical for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination.

RAD1000C Clinical Practicum VI 360 360 12.0

This course is a practical application of all theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast, mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures will continue as well as clinical assignments for observing Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists. Clinical rotation for observing additional imaging modalities will be assigned. Additional imaging modalities will include ultrasound, mammography, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine.

RADSEM2 Radiology Seminar II 30 0 3.0

This course is a review of the content specifications that are critical for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination.

 

Totals

2480

1860

114.0

Course Number: RAD120

This introductory course outlines the role of a radiologic technologist, the history of radiology, hospital and imaging department operations and exam reimbursement protocol. Students will be introduced to accreditation, certification, professional organizations, and the policies/regulations for the program.

Title Introduction to Radiologic Sciences
Clock Hours10
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits1.0

Course Number: CAREER200

Career Advantage is a course designed to prepare students to develop career planning and job search skills. Thorough, relevant job search preparation is required to compete successfully for jobs in today's market. To prepare the student, the course will address six areas: resumes, job search process, networking techniques in a job search, interview planning and preparation, communication and workplace skills.

Title Career Advantage
Clock Hours20
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits2.0

Course Number: RAD150

This course is an introduction to basic medical imaging terminology and prepares students for more advanced coursework in subsequent courses by providing an introduction to general medical imaging terminology. Students will study the roots, prefixes, suffixes, and abbreviations as well as general terms and their appropriate usage in medical imaging practice.

Title Medical Terminology
Clock Hours30
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits3.0

Course Number: RAD220

This course provides the needed concepts of how a radiographic image is produced for diagnostic radiography, fluoroscopy, and mobile radiography. Atomic structure, magnetism, electricity and the circuitry of the x-ray unit are covered.

Title Radiographic Physics
Clock Hours30
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits3.0

Course Number: RAD250

This course will provide a knowledge base about the factors of x-ray image creation, which will include the equipment accessories and exposure factors that affect the quality of a radiograph. Students will participate in laboratory experiments to enhance the comprehension of image creation concepts.

Title Principles of Image Production
Clock Hours70
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits6.0

Course Number: RAD320

This course will provide the theory and laboratory practice for students to position patients for radiographic examinations of the respiratory system, abdomen, bony thorax, upper and lower extremities and related joints. Students will also be taught the use of proper radiation protection, and to analyze and critique the produced diagnostic images.

Title Radiographic Positioning I
Clock Hours60
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits4.0

Course Number: RAD350

This course will provide the concepts of proper radiation protection protocols for the general public and imaging personnel. Regulatory agencies, dosage, shielding, and radiation protection principles for radiography, mobile radiography, and fluoroscopy will be explained. Students will perform laboratory experiments to enforce the concepts taught.

Title Radiation Biology and Protection
Clock Hours70
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits6.0

Course Number: RAD370

This course provides the base knowledge of computer/digital technology and the practical application of use within the radiologic field.

Title Digital Imaging
Clock Hours20
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits2.0

Course Number: RAD420

This course will provide the basic concepts and skills that are required for the appropriate standard of care for patients, which include communication, medical history documentation, and patient assistance. Students will demonstrate competence in taking vital signs and patient transfers. The importance of infection control and the technologists role in medical emergencies will be discussed.

Title Patient Care
Clock Hours40
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits3.0

Course Number: RAD450

This course will provide the theory and laboratory practice for students to position patients for radiographic examinations of the vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, and sinuses. Students will also be taught the use of proper radiation protection, and to analyze and critique the produced diagnostic images.

Title Radiographic Positioning II
Clock Hours60
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits4.0

Course Number: RAD470

This course introduces the medico-legal and medical ethics principles of the healthcare profession specific to the imaging profession.

Title Law and Ethics in Imaging
Clock Hours20
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits2.0

Course Number: RAD500C

This course is a practical application of the concurrent theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, and sinuses to include mobile radiography will be introduced under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

Title Clinical Practicum I
Clock Hours300
Clinical Hours300
Quarter Credits10.0

Course Number: RAD520

This course will provide the theory and laboratory practice for students to position patients for radiographic examinations of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and special procedures using contrast material. Students will also be taught the use of proper radiation protection, and to analyze and critique the produced diagnostic images.

Title Radiographic Positioning III
Clock Hours60
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits4.0

Course Number: RAD600C

This course is a practical application of the concurrent theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, and extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, and sinuses will continue and competency based assignments for gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast will be introduced under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

Title Clinical Practicum II
Clock Hours300
Clinical Hours300
Quarter Credits10.0

Course Number: RAD620

This course provides the basic methods for the administration of contrast material and the basic practices of venipuncture for the radiologic technologist. This course meets California Health and Safety Code, Section106985.

Title Pharmacology/Venipuncture
Clock Hours30
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits2.0

Course Number: RAD700C

This course is a practical application of the concurrent theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast will continue and competency based assignments for mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures done under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

Title Clinical Practicum III
Clock Hours300
Clinical Hours300
Quarter Credits10.0

Course Number: RAD720

This course provides the advanced student with an introduction to the principles and applications of computed tomography (CT) in the imaging department.

Title Introduction to Computed Tomography with Cross Sectional Anatomy
Clock Hours40
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits4.0

Course Number: RAD800C

This course is a practical application of all theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast, mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures will continue under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

Title Clinical Practicum IV
Clock Hours300
Clinical Hours300
Quarter Credits10.0

Course Number: RAD900C

This course is a practical application of all theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast, mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures will continue as well as clinical assignments for observing Computed Tomography (CT) under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists.

Title Clinical Practicum V
Clock Hours300
Clinical Hours300
Quarter Credits10.0

Course Number: RADSEM1

This course is a review of the content specifications that are critical for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination.

Title Radiology Seminar I
Clock Hours30
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits3.0

Course Number: RAD1000C

This course is a practical application of all theoretical learning. Competency based assignments in thorax, abdomen, extremities, vertebral column, cranium, facial bones, sinuses, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and special procedures with contrast, mobile radiography, surgical and interventional procedures will continue as well as clinical assignments for observing Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), under the supervision of certified Radiologic Technologists. Clinical rotation for observing additional imaging modalities will be assigned. Additional imaging modalities will include ultrasound, mammography, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine.

Title Clinical Practicum VI
Clock Hours360
Clinical Hours360
Quarter Credits12.0

Course Number: RADSEM2

This course is a review of the content specifications that are critical for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examination.

Title Radiology Seminar II
Clock Hours30
Clinical Hours0
Quarter Credits3.0

TOTALS

Clock Hours

2480

Clinical Hours

1860

Quarter Credits

114.0

TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 130.0

Radiography

Radiography Program Overview

ACC’s Radiography Program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in radiographic techniques, patient care and medical imaging technology. The curriculum is continuously updated to align with the latest advancements in radiology, ensuring that students are prepared to meet the demands of modern healthcare settings.

The goal of radiologic technologist school is to graduate professionals that enthusiastically display leadership responsibilities while providing competent care. ACC accomplishes this by:

  • Providing access to activities that foster community awareness while responding to the needs of the community
  • Ensuring that the standards required for accreditation for the College and the program are maintained
  • Supporting the community of radiologic technologists and healthcare professionals by providing opportunities for professional development

ACC helps program graduates earn their radiography associate degree and get ready to provide compassionate patient care.

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The Info You Need — All in One Place

Download the Radiography Associate Program Brochure!

Looking for more information about what ACC's Radiography training program has to offer? Our brochure has important details about the program including:

  • Program curriculum and course highlights
  • Accreditation
  • Enrollment requirements
  • And more!

Download the brochure to explore everything that ACC’s Radiography program has to offer and take the next step toward your future in healthcare.

From lectures to real-world experience, our ACC programs are designed with your career in mind.

Apply Now

From lectures to labs, our ACC curriculum is designed with you in mind.

FAQs

What does a radiologic technologist do?

Radiologic technologists are responsible for maintaining and operating the equipment that takes effective x-rays and other diagnostic imaging examinations. They work hands-on with patients to ensure that their doctors see what they need to see.

Here are some things a radiologic technologist does:

  • Prepare patients for examinations
  • Explain procedures and positions
  • Ensure that areas not being X-rayed are covered with protective shields
  • Perform X-rays
  • Operate, adjust, and maintain equipment1

1California Employment Development Department Detailed Guide, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians in California

Am I a good fit for the Radiography program?

If you love working with technical equipment and enjoy working directly with people, our Radiography program might be right for you.

Here are some of the top skills and attributes that make for a great radiologic technologist:

Active listening – A good radiologic technologist listens to their patients and understands their needs and concerns.

Communication – Because radiologic technologists work directly with patients, they must be able to communicate effectively with them, explaining the postures and procedures used during imaging.

Operations monitoring – Radiologic technologists should be able to monitor any relevant machinery, including watching gauges, dials or other indicators.

Customer and personal service – Radiologic technologists work directly with patients. Having good customer and personal service skills helps them provide better care.

Service orientation – A great radiologic technologist has a passion for helping patients and for providing the best care possible.

Where do radiologic technologists work?

Radiologic technologists can work in a variety of settings, including:

  • Hospitals
  • Medical clinics
  • Medical laboratories1

1California Employment Development Department Detailed Guide, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians in California

What will I learn in the Radiologic Technologist program?

ACC's Radiography program is designed to provide learning experiences that prepare our school's students for competent performance as a radiologic technologist. These include, but are not limited to: lecture, interactive and self-discovery activities, problem-based case presentations, small group discussions, mentoring, tactile/kinesthetic activities provided through laboratory experiences and clinical practicums.

What courses make up the Radiography program?

General Education Courses:

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Classes & Lab

Written Communications I

College Mathematics I

Introduction to Psychology

Core Radiography and Other Courses:

Introduction to Radiologic Sciences

Medical Terminology

Radiographic Physics

Principles of Image Production

Patient Care

Radiographic Positioning I

Principles of Radiation and Radiation Biology

Radiation Protection

Clinical Practicum I

Radiographic Positioning II

Digital Imaging

Clinical Practicum II

Law and Ethics in Imaging

Radiographic Positioning III

Clinical Practicum III

Clinical Practicum IV

Introduction to Computed Tomography

Clinical Practicum V

Cross-Sectional Anatomy

Pharmacology/Venipuncture

Clinical Practicum VI

Career Advantage

Radiology Seminar

American Career College provides comprehensive academic and clinical preparation for each student to have a successful result on the ARRT certification and registration exam.

 

For a complete description of coursework in these modules, please refer to the ACC Catalog.

How long is the Radiography program?

Students can earn their radiography associate degree in as little as 25 months.

How much does the Radiography program cost?

Our admissions advisors and financial aid advisors are here to support you. They can help you figure out the radiography school cost and help you explore financial aid options.

To learn more about ACC’s Radiography program cost, access our tuition info.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.

Will I get real-world radiography training?

Yes! ACC's Radiography program includes over 1,800 hours of clinicals which gives students the opportunity to demonstrate and reinforce the knowledge and skills they acquired learning hands-on throughout the training program.

Can I get certified?

ACC’s radiologic technologist curriculum is designed to help prepare students for the ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) exam.

Radiography
Be ready for your first day on the job.

Our classes are career-focused on the practical skills you need to be successful at your career. Get a well-rounded experience from in-class, lab and clinical hours as you work toward your degree.

Schedule an info session

Want more details about the Radiography program?

By submitting this form, I provide my signature, expressly consenting to calls, prerecorded messages, emails and/or texts regarding my educational options from American Career College using an automated dialing system to the number and email address provided. I understand my consent is not required to enroll at American Career College, and that I can withdraw my consent at any time. To request information without consenting, please call 877-832-0790. I also understand that I may revoke my consent at any time in accordance with ACC's Opt-Out Disclaimer. All information provided is subject to ACC's Privacy Policy. (**Standard rates may apply.)

Disclaimer Consumer Notice I understand that if I no longer wish to receive text messages from ACC, I may revoke my consent at any time by texting back "Stop" to unsubscribe from the service. I understand that if I no longer wish to receive emails, I may revoke my consent at any time by clicking the "Unsubscribe" link within any email I receive from ACC. I understand I may revoke my consent to receive calls by informing any ACC associate calling me that I no longer want to receive calls from ACC. Personal Information you submit through our Sites, such as your name, address and other contact information, may be collected by American Career College for internal marketing and development purposes as well as to respond to your inquiry, complete a transaction for you, or fulfill other forms of customer service. You can choose not to receive marketing from us by "unsubscribing" using the instructions in any marketing email you receive from us.

*Required

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