Academic Information

Sections:

The Radiography program at College of DuPage prepares students for entry-level positions after successfully completing the two-year program. Graduates earn national certification after successfully passing a national certification exam. Some states, such as Illinois, also may require licensure as a condition of employment.

In their work, radiographers apply their knowledge of human anatomy, X-ray positioning, X-ray physics and equipment, film critique, basic pathophysiology and patient care. Radiographers must be mentally alert and able to function in stressful situations. They must have excellent psychomotor ability and communication skills, follow directions, work cooperatively with other health care professionals, and have compassion for the sick and injured. Radiographers also must be in good mental and physical health and able to move radiographic equipment and patients.

Radiography is also the first step toward other medical imaging areas, such as interventional and special procedures, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine (NM), ultrasonography (US) and radiation therapy. With additional education and training, radiographers can advance into other areas such as management, education and sales.

Radiographers work in both clinical and hospital environments, primarily within the radiology department but also in other areas, such as the emergency room, surgery, nursery or patient rooms within the hospital.

Program graduates are prepared for employment in a variety of settings nationwide. Entry-level salaries average $35,000. Salaries for areas of advanced imaging are $40,000 or more.

Accreditation
The program is fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee in Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), 29 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182.

Degree and Certificate
Radiography, Associate in Applied Science
When planning your coursework, use the Student Planning Worksheet. Degree information and the worksheet can be found on the following files: