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Radiologic Technology Program

Career Brief

Radiologic Technologists:

  • Provide patient care, explain medical procedures, and position patients for x-ray examinations
  • Operate radiographic equipment to produce images of the body for diagnostic purposes
  • Critique x-ray images to determine diagnostic quality and corrective measures
  • Use radiation safety measures and protection devices to comply with government regulations and to ensure safety of patients and staff

Employment Outlook

Overall employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 15,400 openings for radiologic and MRI technologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

The growing size of the older population and the rising prevalence of chronic disease will lead to greater demand for healthcare services, including diagnostic procedures. More radiologic and MRI technologists will be needed to perform the imaging exams that are essential for making diagnoses and creating treatment plans.

Although hospitals will remain the principal employer of radiologic technologists, a number of new jobs will be found in offices of physicians and diagnostic imaging centers. As technology advances many imaging modalities are becoming less expensive and more feasible to have in a physician’s office. With additional training, opportunities exist in various modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT), sonography, radiation therapy, and angiography, as well as medical sales, management, and education. Technologists with multiple certifications will have the best job prospects.

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