Radiography Programs in Alaska

How to Become a Radiography in Alaska and Radiography Programs in Alaska

Radiologic technologists perform a wide range of duties surrounding the use of x-ray technology. These professionals will help prepare patients for procedures and operate the equipment that takes x-rays of the body. A radiologic technologist may also administer an IV for contrast fluids, give injections, and transport patients in and out of the x-ray area. Keeping records and doing paperwork for each procedure are additional responsibilities associated with this profession. Radiologic technologists can work in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings. In Alaska, the majority of these jobs are centered in big cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks.

If you’re interested in learning about how to become a radiographer in Alaska and radiography programs in Alaska, there are few basic steps that you should know about. At the high school level, students can begin to prepare for a career in this field by focusing on math and science courses. These are very important in this area of study. After graduating from high school, students should go on to complete a minimum of an Associate of Applied Science degree for Radiologic Technology. The University of Alaska Anchorage offers this degree. It can be completed in about two to three years. Students may also continue to a bachelor’s if desired.

The University of Alaska Southeast offers a Pre-Radiologic Technology course for students who prefer to spend their first year of study here. This program includes 30 credit hours and provides most of the prerequisites needed for an Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology, like the one provided by the University of Alaska Anchorage. Completion of the pre-radiologic technology program earns students a certificate of completion. After a minimum of an AAS has been obtained, students are prepared to apply for certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technology. Certification is required to pursue a career in radiology in Alaska.

Radiologic technologists and technicians had a mean annual salary of $56,760 as of May 2011, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those with earnings in the top ten percent made more than $77,760 while those in the bottom ten percent earned less than $37,360. Alaska is the fifth-highest paying state for this occupation with a mean annual salary of $66,550, or about $32 an hour. Job growth in this career is expected to be good over the coming decade. This job is expected to grow faster than the national average for all occupations. Students interested in a career in radiology have a very promising future.