X-ray

Radiography

Radiography Logo

Radiography plays an important role in health care by enabling health care professionals to use x-rays to help to improve patients' health and well-being. The Radiography program will prepare you to be part of patient care as a radiologic technologist, a skilled health care professional who uses radiation to produce images of the human body.

Led by dedicated faculty and through hands-on course work in the state-of-the-art Dr. Robert S. Shackleford Jr. Allied Health Center, you will learn about topics including radiographic exposure, image processing, radiographic procedures, physics, pathology, patient care and management, radiation protection, quality assurance, anatomy and physiology, and radiobiology while also participating in clinical rotations at area health care facilities.

Upon graduation, you will be eligible to apply to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists' national examination for certification and registration as a medical radiographer. You may then work in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, medical laboratories, government agencies, and industry. When you're ready to add more to your resume, we also offer Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology certificates to give you more in-demand skills.

[A45700]

Courses for this A.A.S. degree program are offered day only.

First Year: Fall Semester (19 Semester Hours Credit)

First Year: Spring Semester (19 Semester Hours Credit)

First Year: Summer Session (7 Semester Hours Credit)

Second Year: Fall Semester (15 Semester Hours Credit)

Second Year: Spring Semester (13 Semester Hours Credit)

Total Semester Hours Credit: 73

Students must obtain a grade of "C" or better in all RAD courses, "B" or better BIO 163, ENG 111, ENG 114, PHI 240, PHY 110, PHY 110A, MAT 171 and PSY 150 in order to progress in the Radiography program.

** Students who choose to take BIO 168 and BIO 169 instead of BIO 163 will receive credit for BIO 163 if they earn a "B" or better.

Admissions Ranking Sheet for Radiography

The Radiography program understands and accepts the concept of the open-door policy for general admission to Randolph Community College. Admission to the College does not, however, guarantee admission to the Radiography program. Admission to the Radiography program is competitive. If you have questions about the admissions process for the Radiography program, please call the Student Services Counselor and Career Services Coordinator at 336-633-0222.

In addition to the Randolph Community College requirements for admission, the following are minimum requirements for admission to the Radiography program:

PHASE I - Completed by June 1 (date will change if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday)

  1. Complete general admission requirements of Randolph Community College.
    1. If new student, complete an RCC admissions application. Current students, skip to number 2.
    2. Provide official copies of high school transcript and/or adult high school equivalency and all college transcripts.
    3. Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid at studentaid.gov or contact the Office of Financial Aid & Veterans Affairs for assistance.
  2. Must be eligible to enter the program's required English and math courses without a co-requisite.
  3. Complete the TEAS Test. The highest scores will be used in admissions decisions. Test scores are applicable for three years from the test date. There is no cut score for the exam.
  4. A 2.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA) on the most recent transcript, college or high school. A 2.5 GPA must be maintained throughout the admissions process.
  5. Attend mandatory information session (Dates will be listed on the Radiography home page on the RCC website)
  6. Submit documentation required for the ranking sheet to the Student Services Counselor and Career Services Coordinator.

Students will be notified by MyRCC email of acceptance into the Radiography program during the week of June 15 for fall enrollment. Students must respond by email within seven calendar days to accept placement in the program. If a student declines or does not respond by the deadline, another student will be offered placement.

PHASE II - Completed by July 12 (date will change if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday)

  1. Complete student medical information form (including current immunizations and negative TB test). Please Note: Some of these immunizations may take 6 months to complete. These requirements are discussed in the information session. No extensions will be granted. Students may submit medical requirements anytime after receiving the Phase I completion email, although students are encouraged to verify MMR and Varicella immunizations early. Please refer to the information session packet.
  2. Attend New Radiography Orientation. Students will be notified of date and time.
  3. Current CPR certification through the American Heart Association for adults and children.

Affiliating clinical agencies may require credentialing clearance as a prerequisite for clinical learning experiences throughout the curriculum.  This credentialing clearance may include, but is not limited to, a criminal background check, urine drug screen, medical examination, vaccinations, and clinical site orientation.  Positive results or failure to complete any agency requirement may result in the clinical agency denying student access to clinical practice in the facility.  Any student who is denied access or fails to comply with clinical agency credentialing procedures and policies will not be allowed to progress in the program.

NOTIFICATION OF ADMISSIONS/INFORMATION SESSION

Students will be able to see the dates and times of the information sessions via the RCC website. The purpose of the information session is to answer questions about the program and for representatives from the Radiography program to share important information. Students who do not attend will not be admitted into the program.

Applications received after June 1 will be considered on a space-available basis.

Applicants who are not admitted may reapply before the June 1 deadline of the next year.

READMISSIONS

Readmission to the Radiography program is based upon successful completion of the requirements for readmission and space availability. A student may readmit to the Radiography program one time only, and this admission must occur within one academic year of separation. Students dismissed for behavioral or unsatisfactory clinical performance are not eligible for readmission. The number of students approved for readmission will be based upon the availability of resources to support them.

The Radiography department head may require a readmitted student to re-take a previously successful course in order to better ensure success in the program. The student must follow the guidelines for admission and continue to maintain a 2.5 GPA. The student may be eligible for one of the admissions options listed below.

Option 1:

If the student is unsuccessful in their first fall, spring, or summer semesters, they must repeat the entire admissions process. They will be readmitted if they are one of the top candidates according to the admissions ranking sheet.

Option 2:

If the student is unsuccessful in their 2nd fall or 2nd spring semester:

  • The student must apply for readmission by submitting a letter of intent within 7 days of dismissal or withdrawal from a Radiography course to the Radiography department head.
  • The student must have maintained a 2.5 GPA.
  • The student will be required to pass a written and laboratory skills test.
  • Testing must be completed within one year after dismissal.
  • If both exams are passed, the student will reenter the program as a second-level student in the fall semester pending space availability.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to initiate the re-admission process and to schedule testing with the department head for radiography.
  • The student will be required to re-complete the background check and drug screen.
  • All immunizations and CPR requirements must be up to date.

Students eligible for Option 2, will only be permitted one opportunity to pass the written and lab exams. If the student is unsuccessful on either exam, the student may be eligible for Option 1, if they have met the admission requirements as outlined in the current college catalog.

TRANSFER CREDIT FOR RADIOGRAPHY COURSES

Students wishing to transfer into the radiography program must follow the processes outlined below according to status. Out of state transfers are not accepted.

In state status students:

  • Admission is based on space availability.
  • The student must initiate the admission process and schedule a meeting with the Radiography department head.
  • The student must meet all admissions requirements for the College and the Radiography program as posted in the College catalog.
  • The student must submit a letter from their current radiography program director stating they left their current program in good academic and behavioral standing.
  • Any student dismissed from their current program for behavioral issues or unsafe clinical practice will not be eligible for admission.
  • The student will be required to complete a background check and drug screen through the RCC provider at their expense.
  • All immunizations and CPR requirements must be up to date.
  • The student will be required to pass a written and laboratory skills test.

PHYSICAL & EMOTIONAL HEALTH

It is required that there be evidence that the physical and emotional health of the student be such that he/she can be expected to provide safe care to the public.

Evaluation of health will continue throughout the program. An applicant or student who presents problems in physical or emotional health which have not responded to appropriate treatment within a reasonable time may be denied admission or asked to withdraw. The student is denied admission or asked to withdraw to protect his/her own health and that of clients to whom he/she is assigned.

NUMERICAL RANKING SYSTEM

The numerical ranking system was implemented as an objective means for evaluating Radiography applicants. Applicants will be ranked based upon points earned. Students with the highest number of points will be selected for admission into the Radiography program.

  • GPA: A minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA). Actual GPA will be multiplied by three.
  • TEAS SCORE: The test scores are good for three years. Composite score converted into a decimal and multiplied by 20.
  • TRANSFER OF TEAS SCORE: RCC will consider accepting TEAS scores from other institutions, via atitesting.com, pending proof that all four sections have been completed within three years. RCC reserves the right to refuse TEAS scores from other institutions should there be concern that all four sections have not been taken.
  • GENERAL COURSES: Points for having completed the following courses with a grade of “A” or “B” in the past five years: MAT 171, PHY 110, PHY 110A, BIO 163, or BIO 168 & BIO 169. A=5 points; B=3 points.
  • HEALTH CARE EXPERIENCE: Points awarded for having health care-related experience working directly in patient care. Must be:
    • At least part time for a period of six months or more.
    • Experience that has occurred within the past five years.
    • The required form must be completed on company letterhead by your department supervisor and submitted to the Student Services Counselor and Career Services Coordinator by June 1.

LEGAL LIMITATIONS OF LICENSURE

Upon successful completion of the Radiography Program, the student will be eligible to apply to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certification exam. The application will be submitted in the last semester of study. Graduation from the radiography program does not guarantee that a student will be permitted to sit for the exam. Students must pass an ethics review conducted by the ARRT. Please see the Department Head for Radiography if you have questions. Fees are associated with this process.

Information Session Dates:

  • December 5, 2023
    • RSS 122
    • 8:30 AM
  • February 27, 2024
    • RSS 122
    • 4:30 PM
  • April 25, 2024
    • RSS 122
    • 8:30 AM

Fall 2024 Information Session Material:

For more information about admissions, please contact Elaine Sill at 336-633-0222.

February 26, Monday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
February 27, Tuesday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
February 28, Wednesday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
February 29, Thursday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Register at this website

This test is given on a computer. It currently costs $87. (4/12/2023)

To provide quality education and training to students enrolled in the Radiography Program at Randolph Community College, providing the skills necessary to be technically competent, ethical, and compassionate imaging professionals.


Download a PDF of the 2023 Learning Outcomes.

The Randolph Community College Radiography program is accredited by the:

Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)
20 N. Wacker Drive
Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
312-704-5300
jrcert.org

The length of RCC's Radiography program accreditation award is eight years. The next scheduled review is 6/1/2025.

More information can be learned about the JRCERT via jrcert.org.

Complaints Relating to Noncompliance with JRCERT STANDARDS

Any person who believes the Radiography program is in noncompliance with any of the JRCERT Standards is requested to take the following actions:

  • Immediately confer with the department head. Should the problem not be resolved, the complaining party should within three working days:
  • Confer with the associate dean of health sciences. If the associate dean of health sciences is unable to solve the problem, the complaining party should then within three working days:
  • Confer with the dean of curriculum programs. Should the dean not be able to resolve the problem within five working days, the complaining party should contact the JRCERT at

JRCERT Standards for an Accredited Radiography Program

JRCERT Accredited Program Details

Upon successful completion of the Radiography program, the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate clinical competence.
  • Learn to think critically and how to apply problem-solving strategies.
  • Model professionalism.
  • Communicate proficiently.

Each student must exhibit the abilities and meet the expectations listed below.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Prior to acceptance into the Radiography program, students are required to submit a completed and signed N.C. Community College Medical Form documenting immunizations and medical history which show proof of physical and mental health to perform the duties of a radiologic technologist.
  • Possess the visual acuity to effectively operate equipment and otherwise function in various degrees of ambient lighting and in various sizes of print.
  • Possess adequate depth perception to transport/move patients.
  • Must be able to stand, sit, or walk up to 10 hours per day with minimal break times.
  • Must be physically able to lift, carry, push and manipulate heavy equipment, which is often above the radiographers head/shoulder level.
  • Must be physically able to push, pull, or otherwise transfer patients weighing several hundred pounds.
  • Must be physically able to transport patients via wheelchairs or stretchers.
  • Possess gross and fine motor skills sufficient to provide safe patient care and operate equipment.
  • Must be able to bend and squat.
  • Must be able to hear and visually monitor equipment to report any abnormal sounds or irregularities.
  • Must be able to monitor and evaluate patient vital signs including respiration rate, temperature, blood pressure, and pulse rate.
  • Must be able to visually analyze images for brightness/contrast levels, distortion, and evidence of blurring.

 ANALYTICAL AND COMPREHENSION

  • Apply the principles of aseptic and sterile techniques, infection control, contrast administration, and proper body mechanics.
  • Use critical thinking skills necessary to assess patients and adapt procedures to patient ability and to solve problems.
  • Use critical thinking skills necessary to interpret orders, medical records, lab values, and any other clinical information.
  • Evaluate and analyze image quality and exam completeness.
  • Be able to use short and long-term memory.
  • Perform mathematical calculations to accurately select technical factors, administer contrast media and other medications and assess patient data.
  • Understand and correctly follow verbal instructions given face-to-face, over the phone, or from a distance, including those given in a setting where personnel are wearing surgical masks.
EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL SKILLS
  • Expected to be honest, respectful, and exhibit a high level of integrity in all situations.
  • Follow all program, college, and clinical site policies.
  • Expected to adhere to the ARRT/ASRT Code of Ethics and Rules of Ethics.
  • Expected to maintain confidentiality at all times.
  • Expected to be on time and dressed appropriately, which includes all necessary supplies for class, lab, and clinical.
  • Expected to take initiative in their own clinical, class, and lab experience in an effort to improve his/her knowledge and skills
  • Expected to work in groups and individually.
  • Expected to conduct him/herself in an adult manner.
  • Maintain mental alertness.
  • Respond appropriately to constructive criticism.
  • Must be emotionally stable to handle trauma, emergency and any other emotionally stressful situation that may be encountered at the clinical site.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
  • Must have adequate hearing and speech to communicate orally with patients and other members of the health care team in face-to-face and telephone situations in a professional manner.
  • Must be able to write legibly and be able to type sufficiently in order to accurately record patient history, lab values, reports and document in medical records.
  • Must be able to read at a level sufficient to accurately read and understand medical records, physician orders, procedure manuals, technique charts, electronic data, and textbooks.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can get accepted in the program each fall semester.

 

The Radiography program lasts 2 years (5 semesters).

No. These classes can only be taken once you have been accepted in the program. You are strongly urged to take the other classes that are listed on the program layout before you get into the program (i.e., ENG, MAT, and ACA). 

No. You do not need to take them all before you get accepted. However, it is strongly recommended you get as many of these classes done as possible before you get accepted so you are not overwhelmed with all the work required in each class.

 

If you are a new student: First, you need to complete an application to the college for an Associate Degree in Radiography and turn in transcripts from High School/adult high school equivalency and any other college you have been to and take placement assessment, if necessary.

If you are a current student: Please, attend an information session. Information is posted on RCC's website. More details on Radiography's Phases of Admission are below:

In addition to the Randolph Community College requirements for admission, the following are minimum requirements for admission to the Radiography program:

PHASE I - Completed by June 1 (date will change if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday)

  1. Complete general admission requirements of Randolph Community College.
    1. If new student, complete an RCC admissions application. Current students, skip to number 2.
    2. Provide official copies of high school transcript and/or adult high school equivalency and all college transcripts.
    3. Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid at studentaid.gov or contact the Office of Financial Aid & Veterans Affairs for assistance.
  2. Must be eligible to enter the program's required English and math courses without a co-requisite.
  3. Complete the TEAS Test. The highest scores will be used in admissions decisions. Test scores are applicable for three years from the test date. There is no cut score for the exam.
  4. A 2.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA) on the most recent transcript, college or high school. A 2.5 GPA must be maintained throughout the admissions process.
  5. Attend mandatory information session (Dates will be listed on the Radiography home page on the RCC website)
  6. Submit documentation required for the ranking sheet to the Student Services Counselor and Career Services Coordinator.

Students will be notified by their RCC email of acceptance into the Radiography program during the week of June 15 for fall enrollment. Students must respond by email within seven calendar days to accept placement in the program. If a student declines or does not respond by the deadline, another student will be offered placement.

PHASE II - Completed by July 12 (date will change if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday)

  1. Complete student medical information form (including current immunizations and negative TB test). Please Note: Some of these immunizations may take 6 months to complete. These requirements are discussed in the information session. No extensions will be granted. Students may submit medical requirements anytime after receiving the Phase I completion email, although students are encouraged to verify MMR and Varicella immunizations early. Please refer to the information session packet.
  2. Attend New Radiography Orientation. Students will be notified of date and time.
  3. Current CPR certification through the American Heart Association for adults and children.

You will receive an email through your RCC account letting you know if you are accepted the week of June 15. 

Yes. You can apply for financial aid help as well as scholarship help. Please visit Financial Aid for additional information.

 

Any computer course, communication course, medical terminology, critical thinking, and additional biology and physics would be beneficial. Students can also consider completing Nursing Assistant I and a foreign language. It should be noted that completion of additional courses will not improve a student’s chance of admission into the program.

The RCC Workforce Development and Continuing Education department offers a TEAS VI prep class. Go here to find a current course schedule and information on how to register. You will need a book for this course. It is available at the RCC Campus Store

You must create an account with ATI testing. Go to: atitesting.com Additional information is provided at the information session.

Randolph Community College does not require any immunization to attend classes. However, health science programs with a clinical component may partner with area agencies to provide opportunities for our students to learn in a clinical setting. The partnering clinical agencies are responsible for declaring any requirements of students rotating through their facilities, along with declaring clinical clearance. Clinical clearance may include proof of immunizations.

Contact Us!

Have more questions about the Radiography program? We're here to help.

Anna N. Phillips
Department Head, Radiography
Email: anphillips@randolph.edu (preferred method of contact)
Phone: 336-633-0209

Tami Goins
Clinical Coordinator, Radiography
Email: tmgoins@randolph.edu (preferred method of contact)
Phone: 336-633-0128

For admissions questions, contact Elaine Sill at 336-633-0222 or ewsill@randolph.edu.

 

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