What is Involved in a Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Radiography Course?

A Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Radiography is one of the newest and in demand degree programs today because of the overwhelming demand for radiology professionals. Graduates of this program are experts of diagnosing illnesses and infections through the use of various modern medical tools and equipment. Every medical institution should have at least one diagnostic radiographer to assist in the prognosis and diagnosis of hard to identify diseases. A timely diagnosis can make all the difference between life and death.

Introduction to Radiology

The science of radiology is an offspring of numerous technological advancements and innovations in the field of medicine. As more and more cutting edge imaging and clinical machines are developed the need for someone who can make the most out of the capabilities of the said machines also arises. Practice of the profession requires daunting amounts of knowledge, skills, and practical training. There are numerous branches to choose from which diversifies the specific sectors of the medical industry you can opt to enter.

The Two Basic Branches of the Profession

1. Radiologist

These professionals specialize in the diagnosis of clinical conditions by using the latest in imaging technology. It is a very high paying and rewarding job that requires the individual to complete an undergraduate program in Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Radiography. He should also take up additional advanced units to beef up his competency and give him an advantage over competitors. Experienced and highly qualified personnel such as masters and doctors of this field are often found using x-ray and other imaging technology to facilitate early detection of cancer cells. They also consequently research on ways how to treat the said cancers. This route is one of the longest in the medical profession. The rewards however are astounding and the time, money, and effort you have invested are sure to pay off before you know it.

2. Radiographer

Also known as a radiology technician, this member of the field needs to complete a 3-4 year degree program that focuses on the fundamentals and general radiology courses. If you are under pressure of earning money quickly then this will be a much better choice than the first path. This professional focuses mainly on the technical aspect instead of the medical elements of the profession. He is charged with operating complex radiology equipment and may also be assigned to assist in their maintenance and even minor repairs.

Five Levels of Qualification

1. Certificate

It takes only one year to get a certificate of radiology training. It however only barely allows you to enter the industry of medicine and you will often be tasked with the more laborious and clerical assignments.

2. Associate

It takes two years to become an associate and it makes the student qualified to become a radiology assistant. Assistants serve as helpers to the radiologist.

3. Bachelor

This four-year qualification is the minimum requirement to be able to work as the chief diagnostic radiographer of a medical institution. This qualification is enough to allow you to manage your own diagnosis team.

4. Master

This requires an additional 2-4 years to the bachelor’s degree. Its completion will allow the radiologist to venture into the more complex illnesses and diseases such as cancers.

5. Doctor

This is the ultimate qualification for graduates of the program. There are only a few doctors of radiology because of the degree of difficulty of the advancement. It requires a thesis that can help improve the general state or a particular area of the profession.