Radiologic Technology AAS Degree: What to Expect
An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology is a focused, two-year degree that trains students to become radiologic technologists (also called radiographers). These professionals operate imaging equipment, perform diagnostic X-rays, and assist physicians in identifying injuries or illnesses.
What to Expect from a Radiologic Technology AAS Program
Students in this program should expect a full-time commitment. Most programs span 21 to 24 months and combine classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical rotations. Clinical hours usually range from 1,500 to 1,800 over the course of the program, depending on the institution. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam, which is required for licensure in most states.
Radiologic technologists typically work in hospitals, clinics, outpatient care centers, and private physician offices.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum covers general education courses and major-specific courses in radiologic technology. Coursework is often sequenced to ensure students build on foundational knowledge each semester. Below is a typical structure:
General Education Courses (20–30 credits):
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- English Composition
- College Algebra or Statistics
- Introduction to Psychology or Ethics
- Speech Communication
- Medical Terminology
Radiologic Technology Core Courses (50–65 credits):
- Introduction to Radiologic Technology
- Radiographic Procedures I, II, III
- Radiographic Imaging and Exposure
- Radiation Protection and Biology
- Radiographic Pathology
- Patient Care and Positioning
- Clinical Practicum I–V
- Registry Review and Capstone
Programs like the one at Bellevue College include over 1,800 hours of clinical experience and span eight quarters. Clinical courses often take place during the daytime and follow a fixed schedule.
Program Cost
A typical in-state tuition estimate is:
- Tuition: $10,000–$20,000
- Books & Fees: $1,000–$2,000
- Uniforms, CPR Certification, and Licensure Fees: $400–$600
- Total Estimated Cost: $12,000–$25,000
For example, Red Rocks Community College estimates total program costs around $15,500, while private institutions or out-of-state tuition can be higher.
Admissions Requirements
Admission is competitive. Programs typically have limited seats and select students based on academic performance and prerequisite completion. Standard requirements include:
- Minimum GPA of 2.7–3.0 in prerequisite courses
- Completion of prerequisites such as:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II
- English Composition
- Intermediate Algebra or Statistics
- Medical Terminology
- Background check and drug screening
- Immunization records and physical exams
- Interview or information session attendance
Some programs, such as Maricopa Community Colleges, require that all general education courses be completed before joining the core curriculum.
Certification and Career Outlook
After graduation, students can take the ARRT certification exam. Most employers require this credential. Certified radiologic technologists can work in specialties such as:
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- MRI
- Mammography
- Interventional Radiology
Salaries for entry-level radiologic technologists vary by state. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage is approximately $67,180, with job growth projected at 6% through 2032.
Top Schools
If you’re looking to begin or advance a career in medical imaging, an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology can open the door to a wide range of healthcare opportunities. Across the country, colleges and universities offer accredited programs designed to prepare students for licensure, certification, and entry-level positions in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialty imaging centers.
Whether you’re already certified as an LMRT in Texas or just starting your educational journey, the schools featured below provide flexible learning options, hands-on clinical training, and pathways to professional growth.
| School | Location | Program Length | Certification Eligibility | Learning Format | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| College of Health Care Professions | Austin, TX | 64 weeks | ARRT (Radiography) | Hybrid (Online + Clinical) | Designed for certified LMRTs; stackable credits toward a BS |
| New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | 2 years | ARRT + NY State Licensure | In-person + Clinical | Clinicals at top NYC hospitals like NYU and Mt. Sinai |
| Northeast College of Health Sciences | Seneca Falls, NY | Under 2 years | ARRT | In-person + Clinical | Rural-to-trauma site variety; iPad and CastleBranch account required |
| Maricopa Community Colleges | Tempe, AZ | 84–93.5 credits | ARRT + Arizona Licensure | In-person + Clinical | Accredited and selective; strong focus on critical thinking and adaptability |
| Harper College | Palatine, IL | 2 years (70 credits) | ARRT + IL Licensure | In-person + Clinical | RAD courses cost 1.5x tuition; limited enrollment |
| Parker University | Dallas, TX | 24 months | ARRT | Evening Classes + Clinical | Night classes and clinicals; small, supportive learning environment |
| LaGuardia Community College | Long Island City, NY | 2 years | ARRT + NY Licensure | In-person + Clinical | Focus on compassionate imaging; pathways to advanced imaging and degrees |
| Red Rocks Community College | Lakewood, CO | 21 months (5 semesters) | ARRT | In-person + Clinical + Online | Affordable ($15,500 est.); WIOA eligible; registry prep course included |
| Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | 23 months (8 quarters) | ARRT + WA Licensure | In-person + 1,800+ Clinical hrs | Offers bachelor’s and advanced online certificates |
| Monroe Community College | Rochester, NY | 21 months | ARRT + NY Licensure | In-person + Clinical | 98.66% ARRT pass rate; 95% job placement locally |
College of Health Care Professions (CHCP)
https://www.chcp.edu/degrees-certificates/online/radiologic-technology-aas-completion-program/
6330 East Highway 290, Suite 180 Austin, TX 78723
Flexible, Career-Focused Radiologic Training for LMRTs
The College of Health Care Professions offers a 64-week online Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology completion program designed specifically for Texas-certified Limited Medical Radiologic Technologists (LMRTs) seeking advancement in their careers. This hybrid program blends online coursework with three required in-person clinical practicums. The curriculum includes vital topics such as radiographic imaging, pathology, anatomy, pharmacology, and advanced imaging procedures, all aimed at preparing students for the ARRT (Radiography) certification exam. CHCP also offers a “stackable” education path via its Accelerate Program, enabling students to apply credits toward a BS in Radiologic Science Management.
Professional Outcomes and Real-World Skill Development
Graduates are equipped for entry-level roles in radiologic technology, including specialties such as CT, MRI, interventional radiology, and mammography. Tuition details are available through CHCP advisors, and students will gain not only the technical imaging skills but also patient care, communication, and safety competencies. Completion of this program makes students eligible to sit for the ARRT certification exam, which is often a requirement for employment and licensure in Texas.
New York City College of Technology (City Tech)
https://www.citytech.cuny.edu/radiologic/radiologic-technology-aas.aspx
Brooklyn, NY
Comprehensive Training in Radiologic Technology and Medical Imaging
City Tech’s Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology and Medical Imaging prepares students to become certified and licensed radiologic technologists in New York. The curriculum emphasizes the science and ethics of imaging, including patient care, communication, critical thinking, and professionalism. Students are trained to operate imaging equipment, perform diagnostic procedures, and interpret technical results. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the ARRT certification and apply for New York State licensure.
Costs, Clinical Exposure, and Employment Opportunities
The program includes practical experience at prominent hospitals in the NYC area, including NYU, Mount Sinai, and New York-Presbyterian. Additional student expenses include textbooks (~$1,000), uniforms, a pinning fee, CPR certification, and ARRT and state licensing application fees, totaling approximately $800–$1,000. City Tech’s program is highly regarded for producing skilled graduates ready to enter a variety of imaging roles throughout the healthcare system.
Northeast College of Health Sciences
https://www.northeastcollege.edu/programs/undergraduate/a-a-s-radiologic-technology
Seneca Falls, NY
Hands-On, Healthcare-Dedicated Education in Radiologic Technology
Northeast College’s AAS in Radiologic Technology prepares students for licensure in under two years through a rigorous blend of classroom instruction, hands-on lab training, and clinical rotations. Located on a healthcare-focused campus, the program covers anatomy, radiation safety, image production, and patient communication. Students also explore advanced imaging fields like CT, MRI, and interventional radiography, gaining experience in both general and specialized imaging techniques.
Strong Career Outcomes and Practical Preparation
The program is geared toward preparing students for the ARRT exam and immediate entry into the workforce. The college’s partnerships with clinics and hospitals provide a broad range of clinical experiences, from rural to trauma settings. Students are also required to have an iPad, reliable transportation, and maintain a CastleBranch account for background checks and immunization tracking. With an 11% rise in radiologic technologist salaries over the last three years, graduates are well-positioned for a financially and professionally rewarding career.
Maricopa Community Colleges
https://www.maricopa.edu/degrees-certificates/health-sciences/radiologic-technology-3582-aas
Tempe, AZ
Accredited, Intensive Program with Strong Clinical Emphasis
Maricopa’s AAS in Radiologic Technology is a full-time, accredited program designed to prepare students for certification, licensure, and employment in the field. Spanning 84–93.5 credits, the program includes rigorous coursework in anatomy, radiation physics, ethics, and patient care, complemented by hands-on clinical experiences. Admission is selective, requiring completion of foundational courses and compliance with health and background requirements.
Arizona-Based Certification and Employment Readiness
Graduates are eligible to take the ARRT certification exam and pursue licensure in Arizona. The program’s JRCERT accreditation ensures high educational standards and alignment with industry expectations. Students are trained to think critically, communicate effectively in healthcare settings, and adapt to diverse clinical scenarios. Career paths include hospitals, outpatient clinics, and mobile imaging services, with average salaries for radiologic technologists in Arizona estimated at $66,600 annually.
Harper College
https://www.harpercollege.edu/academics/health/radiologic-technology/radiology-degree.php
Palatine, IL
Comprehensive Training for a Career in Medical Imaging
Harper College offers a full-time, two-year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Radiologic Technology, designed to prepare students for careers as radiologic technologists. This 70-credit-hour program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam and apply for licensure through the Illinois Department of Nuclear Safety. The curriculum integrates classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training, covering essential topics such as anatomy and physiology, patient care procedures, radiobiology, radiation protection, and medical imaging. Students will learn how to produce diagnostic images, evaluate equipment, and provide patient-centered care.
Career Outcomes and Program Costs
Graduates of the program are well-prepared to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, imaging centers, and clinics. Harper College’s program is a limited-enrollment offering, emphasizing the need to meet specific admission criteria. Due to the specialized nature of the training and equipment involved, students enrolled in courses with the RAD prefix are charged 1.5 times the regular tuition rate. The program’s focus on real-world clinical experience and adherence to ARRT standards ensures graduates are competitive in the job market and ready for professional certification and licensure.
Parker University
https://www.parker.edu/academics/aas-radiologic-technology/
Dallas, TX
Hands-On Radiologic Training with Flexible Evening Classes
Parker University’s Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology offers a practical and immersive path into the medical imaging field. The program includes 74 credit hours completed over six semesters (24 months), with two semesters dedicated to general education and four to core radiologic courses. Students benefit from evening classes and clinical rotations at Dallas-Fort Worth imaging centers. The structure accommodates both first-time college students and those seeking a career change, providing a balanced mix of classroom theory, laboratory skills, and clinical application. Students spend 10 months in night classes followed by 6 months of 36-hour weekly clinical rotations.
Outcomes and Career Preparation
Upon completion, graduates are prepared for entry-level positions as radiologic technologists and eligible for ARRT certification. The program emphasizes small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. The career outlook for radiologic technologists is strong, with a 6% job growth rate and a median annual wage of $76,020. Parker University’s approach blends professional ethics, technical instruction, and clinical practice, giving students a solid foundation for immediate employment and long-term success in the healthcare industry.
LaGuardia Community College
https://www.laguardia.edu/majors/radiologic-technology/
Long Island City, NY
A Blend of Science, Technology, and Patient Care
LaGuardia Community College’s AAS in Radiologic Technology prepares students to become licensed X-ray technologists through a curriculum that emphasizes both academic knowledge and clinical experience. Graduates are eligible to take the ARRT exam and obtain licensure in New York State. Students gain skills in radiation application, imaging techniques, and patient care, making them valuable contributors to diagnostic healthcare teams. The program uniquely blends science and technology with a human-centered approach, making it ideal for those interested in both medical imaging and compassionate care.
Versatile Career and Educational Opportunities
The program offers pathways into immediate employment or further specialization in advanced imaging modalities like CT, MRI, Mammography, and Interventional Radiography. Students may also pursue advanced degrees at institutions like City Tech. LaGuardia’s program fosters real-world readiness by providing a solid educational foundation and diverse clinical exposure. Graduates can pursue roles in management, education, or continue to higher education through related bachelor’s programs, ensuring both flexibility and growth potential in the radiologic field.
Red Rocks Community College
https://www.rrcc.edu/academic-programs/radiologic-technology
Lakewood, CO
Rigorous, Accredited Radiologic Technology Training
Red Rocks Community College offers a 21-month, five-semester Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology, accredited by JRCERT. The program begins each Fall and includes in-person instruction at the Arvada campus, online coursework, and extensive clinical internships. Students receive hands-on training with diverse x-ray equipment and participate in clinical rotations at hospitals and clinics throughout Colorado. A capstone registry review course helps ensure readiness for the ARRT certification exam.
Affordable Tuition and High Graduate Success
With an estimated total cost of $15,500, including tuition, fees, books, and uniforms, RRCC’s program offers an affordable route into the medical imaging profession. The program maintains high completion, certification, and job placement rates. Financial aid and scholarships are available, and additional funding may be accessed through the Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act (WIOA). RRCC also offers certification programs in CT and MRI, allowing students to build on their education and expand their career opportunities in specialized imaging fields.
Bellevue College
https://www.bellevuecollege.edu/ratec/aa/
Bellevue, WA
A Competitive, Clinical-Focused Radiologic Program
Bellevue College’s Radiologic Technology AAS program prepares students for certification and licensure as radiologic technologists through a comprehensive, eight-quarter (23-month) curriculum. Approximately 30 students are admitted each July, gaining both classroom instruction and over 1,800 hours of clinical experience at leading healthcare facilities. The program emphasizes critical thinking, technical skills, and patient interaction, making it ideal for students with strong science backgrounds and interpersonal communication abilities.
Pathways to Career Advancement
Graduates are eligible to take the ARRT exam and are well-prepared for immediate employment in Washington’s growing healthcare market. With a 13% job growth outlook and average salaries ranging from $64,880 to $77,650, the program supports a rewarding career path. Bellevue College also offers bachelor’s degrees and online advanced certificates, making it easy for working professionals to pursue further education. Selective admissions and clear prerequisites ensure that students enter the program well-prepared for success.
Monroe Community College
https://www.monroecc.edu/academics/majors-programs/health-sciences/radiologic-technology-associate-degree/
Rochester, NY
High Certification Rates and Local Job Placement
Monroe Community College’s AAS in Radiologic Technology offers a highly successful pathway into the imaging field, boasting a 98.66% ARRT pass rate over the past three years. The 21-month program includes hands-on training in radiography, mammography, and CT scanning. Students attend classes on campus and complete clinical rotations at Rochester-area hospitals, gaining experience with advanced imaging technologies and real-world patient care scenarios.
Strong Community Partnerships and Career Opportunities
Around 95% of employed MCC graduates find jobs locally, thanks to partnerships with healthcare providers like Rochester Regional Health and the University of Rochester. The program is fully accredited by JRCERT and prepares students for New York State licensure and national certification. Students benefit from a blend of rigorous academics and clinical experiences that translate directly into job readiness and long-term career growth within radiologic and advanced imaging professions.
Paying It Off
Investing in a radiologic technology degree can open doors to a rewarding and stable healthcare career, but like any education, it’s important to consider the financial commitment. Based on data from the programs featured, the average tuition cost for an Associate in Radiologic Technology is approximately $16,500.
Meanwhile, the average starting salary for a radiologic technologist is around $55,000 per year, though this can vary depending on location, specialization, and experience.
If you were to dedicate a percentage of your annual income solely toward repaying your student loans, here’s how long it might take to pay off a $16,500 loan:
- 5% of income ($2,750/year) → Approx. 6 years
- 10% of income ($5,500/year) → Approx. 3 years
- 15% of income ($8,250/year) → Approx. 2 years
- 20% of income ($11,000/year) → Approx. 1.5 years
These estimates assume no interest or loan forgiveness programs, so actual repayment times may vary depending on your loan terms and financial aid package. Still, they show that a career in radiologic technology is a solid investment—especially when combined with high certification pass rates, strong job placement, and competitive entry-level wages. With smart financial planning, most graduates can pay off their student loans within just a few years of entering the workforce.