Why This Matters
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44% POSSESS AN ASSOCIATE DEGREE
Radiographers, mammographers, and MRI technologists require a high level of technical knowledge and skill, and 44% have at least an associate degree.
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THE U.S. NEEDS 267,600 MORE OF YOU BY 2029
Radiographers are in high demand in hospitals, physicians’ offices, and medical facilities across the United States. Projected positions are expected to rise 7% within the next decade.
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EARN UP TO $92,600 PER YEAR
Radiographers earn a median annual wage of $61,900, with the top 10% earning over $92,600. Specialists, like MRI techs, can earn over $104,210 annually.
Our Research
This list focuses on undergraduate programs in radiologic technology, radiologic science, and medical imaging technology. These programs typically award a Bachelor of Science degree; one program awards a Bachelor of Professional Studies degree. We mostly reviewed programs that are offered exclusively online, though one is available in a hybrid format.
The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) is the only agency in the United States that accredits educational programs in the radiography field, with recognition from the United States Department of Education (USDE). Likewise, the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Students is a nationally certified agency that accredits programs in health-related fields. In addition, this list includes programs from regionally accredited schools.
- 67 hours to write this article
- 90 universities and colleges we assessed
- 178 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online Bachelor’s in Radiology Technology Programs
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What You Should Know About This Degree
There are five areas of practice within radiologic technology, which is what you will seek your initial certification in. These include radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine technology, and sonography (ultrasound). All rely on medical imaging technology but are distinct areas of practice with unique career paths. If you want to diagnose broken bones in a physician’s office, radiography might be the best fit, but sonography will align well if you want to work with pregnant women in a hospital setting.
Research programs with accreditation from JRCERT, the only national agency that accredits radiography programs.
The outlook is strong for all career paths within radiologic technology, with a projected growth rate of 7% within the next decade.
After earning your bachelor’s degree, you will need both state licensing and professional certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) to start your career in radiologic technology.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in radiology technology programs:
- What licensing or certifications are required? As a radiographer, you’re required to be licensed by your state, in which you’ll receive a Licensed Radiographer credential upon state exam completion. This process varies by state, so contact your state’s licensing board for specific details. You’ll also require ARRT certification, a national-level credential that is maintained through annual registration.
- What tests are required for this online degree? After completing your bachelor’s degree, you need to take the ARRT certification exam, which includes six patient care activities, 36 specific radiologic procedures, and 15 radiologic procedures chosen from a 30-procedure list. You’ll also need to take your state’s licensing exam; this covers much of the same material, but requirements vary by state.
Keep application deadlines in mind, especially those concerning exam or licensing dates. Contact the program head for detailed information.
Financing is vital, so you should research funding sources such as financial aid, scholarships, and grants as well.