I want to be a radiologist technician can I be one in less than two years?

Question

I know you need an associates degree can you finish it in a year?I am 46 years old and may be too old to start this career and I have to work a full time job mon-fri 8am to 3pm.I could do some studying at work because of a lot of free time.Any suggestions?

Answer 1

According to the US Dept of Labor:

*Formal training programs in radiography range in length from 1 to 4 years and lead to a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree.
*Although hospitals will remain the primary employer, a greater number of new jobs will be found in physicians’ offices and diagnostic imaging centers.
*Job opportunities are expected to be favorable; some employers report difficulty hiring sufficient numbers of radiologic technologists and technicians.

Typical Training:
*In 2005, 38 States certified radiologic technologists and technicians. Certification, which is voluntary, is offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. To be eligible for certification, technologists generally must graduate from an accredited program and pass an examination. Many employers prefer to hire certified radiographers. To be recertified, radiographers must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.

*Some 1-year certificate programs are available for experienced radiographers or individuals from other health occupations, such as medical technologists and registered nurses, who want to change fields or specialize in CT or MRI.

Wages:
Median annual earnings of radiologic technologists and technicians were $43,350 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $36,170 and $52,430. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,020, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $60,210. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of radiologic technologists and technicians in May 2004 were:

Medical and diagnostic laboratories $46,620
General medical and surgical hospitals 43,960
Offices of physicians 40,290

Good luck!

Answer 2

Most (if not all) programs are 40 hours per week for 2 years. You can't choose when to do it (as in night classes). They are structured programs. If you want to do it, you will have to quit your job or work part-time after school.

And you're not too old.