Radiologic Technologists, or radiographers, are an integral part of the health care team. They use their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, positioning, and radiation technique to obtain high quality diagnostic images of the human body. They employ the dexterity developed during training to complete examinations safely and quickly. They work with some of the most sophisticated technologically advanced equipment presently available and, at the same time, they enjoy the rewards of close patient contact. Radiographers are certified through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

Radiologic Technology is a personally rewarding, well-respected profession with great potential for growth. Hospitals and imaging centers employ the majority of radiographers, but there are many other settings in which they work. Radiographers may pursue advanced education and employment in management, education, research or sales. They may also pursue continuing education in areas of Nuclear Medicine and Ultrasound. They may also cross-train and work in the highly-specialized areas such as interventional radiology, computerized tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Radiologic Technology Program is founded on the mission of the College in that the Radiologic Technology Program provides career preparation with a liberal arts education. While student learning is a priority, the curriculum also fosters responsible citizenship through involvement in a local community service activity.

The Radiologic Technology Program provides the community with caring, compassionate, and skilled professionals. Upon graduation from Harcum the technologist will be proficient in imaging the human body to assure the correct diagnosis and treatment of the patient.

Clinical Work

Students in the Radiologic Technology program receive extensive hands-on experience in their clinical education throughout the program. Harcum College has Radiologic Technology clinical affiliations with all Main Line Health Hospitals & Outpatient Imaging Centers, as well as Chester County Hospital.

Application Requirements:

• A completed Harcum College Application  
• Official high school transcript and/or official GED transcript
• Official college transcripts, if applicable - Minimum 2.5 GPA for either High school or recent College experience
• Essay on why you choose Radiology as a possible career field
• Letter(s) of recommendation from an employer, teacher, or guidance counselor
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores for all students for whom English is a second language
• An interview is required for those applying to the Radiologic Technology program
• Job shadowing experience: It is highly recommended that all applicants shadow a Radiologic Technologist for 6-8 hours in a hospital or imaging center and submit the appropriate form for verification.
• Prior to the student's first semester, a child abuse clearance and criminal history background check must be completed. Once accepted to the program, students must provide proof of the following medical and legal clearances (or of application in progress): a physical examination, PPD test, hepatitis B vaccine, and proof of current CPR certification and proof of medical insurance.  Process for submission of these documents will be mailed to students with their admissions packet. All forms are managed electronically via Certified Background (see tuition page for additional fees).

All application materials for the Radiologic Technology program are due to the Office of Admissions by February 15.

Technical Standards

All radiologic technologists, including student radiographers must be able to meet certain standards in order to perform the duties and meet the expectations of a general radiographer. The student must be able to:

1. Walk upright, bend over easily, and be able to carry between 20 and 30 pounds. This is the approximate weight of 4 or 5 image receptors.
2. Learn to position patients for radiographic examinations.
3. Maneuver all x-ray equipment, for example, raise the x-ray tube or lower it, and push and position the mobile units.
4. Act quickly and make responsible decisions in emergency situations.
5. Hear and distinguish various equipment and background sounds during equipment operations.
6. Understand and apply clinical instructions given from Department Personnel.
7. Visually and acutely monitor patients in dimmed lights, and be able to respond quickly to emergency situations.
8. Assist patients in and out of wheelchairs.
9. Push wheelchairs and stretchers with patients in them.
10. Assist patients while walking with them.
11. Move and/or lift patients from stretchers to radiographic table and vice-versa.
12. Administer CPR after proper certification and instructions.
13. Read and apply instructions in treatments or examinations, write and record notes and patient histories properly.
14. Communicate in a clear and concise manner to patients, to people in other departments, as well as to family members of the patients.
15. Use keyboard for retrieving information from the computer.
16. Reach up to 6 feet off the floor with the assistance of step stool.
17. Work around, set up and maintain a sterile filed.
18. Walk up and down stairs without difficulty or delay.
19. Complete tasks in a timely fashion consistent with department and clinical protocol.
20. Work cooperatively with other health care workers.
21. Follow direction from senior technologists/clinical instructors.
22. Act in an ethical manner consistent with the Code of Ethics developed by the ARRT.
23. Possess emotional well-being to complete, comply, and deliver services necessary for correct diagnosis and treatment of the patient.

Program Goals

Upon completing the program graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the skills of an entry-level diagnostic radiographer.
2. Demonstrate problem solving and critical thinking skills and apply them to the clinical setting.
3. Participate in professional activities that will promote their professionalism and lifelong learning.
4. Utilize the knowledge they have gained to ensure patient safety during radiologic exams including radiation protection.
5. Communicate effectively, both orally and written, in the clinical setting.
   

Student learning outcomes

Upon completion of the program each student will have the following skill set:

1. Utilize appropriate communication skills with patients to obtain appropriate histories and consult with other health care team members as necessary for best patient outcome.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in hand writing histories for radiologists, and follow up instructions for patients.
3. Employ critical thinking to assist them during non-traditional exams or circumstances involving patients and clinical or lab assignments
4. Pass a critical thinking lab practicum.
5. Practice radiation safety for patient, other health care team members and themselves.
6. Act in a professional manner in the clinical setting.
7. Demonstrate understanding of the importance of life-long learning and continuing education.
8. Act in an ethical manner and abide by the ARRT Code of Ethics.
9. Demonstrate competency in the clinical setting and able to perform as an entry level technologist.
   

Based on the JRCERT driven goals of:  communication, critical thinking, professionalism and clinical competence.

Accreditation
Nationally accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology  www.jrcert.org (JRCERT) 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182, phone: 312-704-5300  or  email:  mail@jrcert.org