Become a Radiologic Technologist in 2025: Careers, Salaries, and Education

Radiological technologists, commonly abbreviated as "rad techs," are medical professionals who perform diagnostic imaging tests on patients. Rad techs work under the supervision of radiologists, who are medical doctors who interpret the images used to diagnose and treat diseases. If you're interested in working with specialized medical equipment and playing a crucial role in the health of patients, a career in radiologic technology may be perfect for you. Learn more about how to become a rad tech and what to expect in the field of radiology.

What is a Radiologic Technologist?

Radiologic technologists , also known as radiographers, radiology techs, or radiology technicians, are allied health professionals who perform diagnostic imaging procedures such as:

• X-rays
• Computed tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Positron emission tomography (PET)
• Mammography
• Vascular interventional radiography
• Bone densitometry
• Nuclear medicine
• Sonography

These imaging tests help visualize bones, tissues, and organs, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions like broken bones and strokes. In addition to equipment operation, responsibilities include reviewing patient histories, positioning patients properly, reinforcing radiation safety, and ensuring images are accurate for interpretation. Some technologists specialize further and become radiation therapists, delivering targeted radiation to patients with cancer under a doctor’s supervision.

Where Radiologic Technologists Work

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , over half of radiology technologists work in hospitals. Others work in outpatient facilities such as imaging centers, physician offices, or laboratory centers. Schedules often include evenings, weekends, and on-call hours, depending on the specific workplace setting.

Radiologic Technologist Salary

Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics , radiologic technologists earned a median annual salary of $67,180 (about $32.30 per hour) in 2022. Specialized skills or certifications can lead to higher pay. For instance, radiation therapists earned about $89,530 per year in 2022 as they administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer.

Steps to Become a Radiologic Tech

Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma

Start by earning your high school diploma or GED. Coursework in anatomy and physiology can provide a strong foundation for future radiologic technology programs.

Step 2: Earn a Radiologic Tech Degree

Aspiring rad techs typically enroll in an associate's degree program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) . These programs usually take two years and are available through community colleges. You’ll study mathematics, anatomy, humanities, and medical terminology before focusing on radiologic sciences, image evaluation, and the physics of radiation.

Step 3: Pass the R.T. Exam

After completing your formal education, you can take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam to become a certified and registered radiology technician. The computer-based test measures competencies needed for entry-level technologists.

Step 4: Gain Experience

Early in your career, you may explore different imaging modalities. Shadow experienced professionals, volunteer for diverse procedures, and network with peers to discover potential specialties like nuclear medicine technology or cardiac interventional radiography.

Step 5: Obtain Certifications

Once you’re certified and have started working, you may choose to expand your skill set with additional ARRT postprimary credentials (for example, in bone densitometry , mammography , or radiation therapy ). Additional certifications may require clinical experience in specific tasks plus another exam. These credentials can broaden your career opportunities and help you negotiate higher pay.

Step 6: Maintain Certification

To maintain your certification , you need to complete continuing education requirements every two years, as well as pay the annual renewal fees. Meeting these requirements demonstrates your commitment to current best practices in imaging technology.

Step 7: Earn a Bachelor's Degree (Optional)

While many rad techs begin with an associate’s degree, pursuing a bachelor’s degree can open doors to supervisory, administrative, or specialized clinical roles. Further education often helps you build leadership and management skills in a hospital or imaging center.

Job Outlook for Radiologic Techs

Radiologic technologists play a crucial role in patient care, and the demand for diagnostic imaging services is expected to remain strong as the population ages. According to the BLS, the number of diagnostic medical sonographers jobs will increase by 11% over the next 10 years. Job opportunities for radiologic technologists will reflect a steady trend, particularly for those who pursue multiple certifications. Expanding your credentials in CT, MRI, or mammography can make you more marketable and may position you for career growth.

Radiologic Technologist FAQs

What Does a Radiologic Technologist Do?

A radiologic technologist, or rad tech, operates imaging equipment such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to create diagnostic images. They also position patients, manage equipment settings, and uphold safety standards to minimize radiation exposure.

Is Becoming a Radiology Tech Hard?

Though it involves mastering technical equipment and detailed patient positioning, many find the role rewarding. Being comfortable with healthcare environments, safety protocols, and anatomy helps tackle challenges in a radiology program.

What Is the Best Degree for a Rad Tech?

Most commonly, radiologic technologists begin with an associate’s degree, accredited by the JRCERT. Bachelor’s degree programs are also available for those seeking leadership, administrative, or specialized clinical roles.

Is a Radiologic Technologist a Doctor?

No. Radiologic technologists work under the guidance of a radiologist, who is a medical doctor specializing in interpreting medical images and diagnosing diseases.

How Do I Start Studying Radiology?

You’ll generally need a high school diploma (or GED), followed by a radiology tech program at a vocational school, community college, or university. Then you can pursue certification and registration through ARRT.

What Can I Expect as a Rad Tech?

The day-to-day routine often involves performing imaging tests for different patients. Some rad techs see similar procedures daily, while others enjoy variety depending on their department or specialty.