Radiography students achieve 100% ARRT pass rate in program’s largest graduating class
Randolph Community College’s Radiography Program is celebrating a historic year as the largest graduating class in program history achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam.
The Class of 2026 includes 22 graduates, the highest number of students ever to complete the program. The milestone was made possible through a healthcare expansion grant awarded by the State of North Carolina, which enabled RCC to increase enrollment capacity while continuing to deliver the high-quality education and clinical training for which the program is known.
“Access is only meaningful when it leads to Success,” RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan said. “This record-setting class proves that Randolph Community College can expand educational opportunity, maintain excellence in teaching and learning, and deliver highly skilled healthcare professionals to the communities we serve.”
In addition to the 100% first-time pass rate, the graduating cohort earned a class average score of 88 on the national certification exam, surpassing the 2025 national average of 82. The class also achieved a 92.3% retention rate throughout the program. Nine students earned exceptional scaled scores of 90 or higher on the ARRT exam, including Juan Frausto Garcia, who earned a scaled score of 98, and Christina Bryant, who achieved a scaled score of 99.
The ARRT certification exam serves as the national credentialing examination for radiologic technologists and is widely recognized as a key benchmark of competency and readiness for professional practice. Graduates who successfully pass the exam are eligible to begin careers in medical imaging facilities nationwide.
As part of their preparation for entering the workforce, senior Radiography students participated in a comprehensive mock interview event with imaging leaders and hiring managers from healthcare organizations across the region, including Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Cone Health, Novant Health, Randolph Health, FirstHealth of the Carolinas, Bethany Medical Center, Eagle Physicians, and Cabarrus College of Health Sciences.
The mock interviews simulated real-world hiring scenarios, allowing students to practice behavioral and clinical interview questions, refine their professional presentation skills, and receive feedback from experienced healthcare leaders. Participants also reviewed resumes, evaluated communication skills, and provided career guidance to students preparing to enter the profession.
Students also traveled to Raleigh this spring to participate in Advocacy Day, where they joined radiologic technology professionals from across North Carolina in meeting with legislators and legislative staff. The experience provided students with an opportunity to engage in conversations about issues affecting their profession and patient care while developing a deeper understanding of the role healthcare professionals play in shaping the future of their field.
The accomplishments of the Class of 2026 reflect RCC’s commitment to expanding educational access while maintaining excellence in teaching, learning, and workforce preparation. Through strong clinical partnerships and industry collaboration, the college continues to prepare highly skilled radiologic technologists to meet the growing healthcare needs of North Carolina and beyond.
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About Randolph Community College’s Radiography Program: Randolph Community College’s Radiography Program prepares students for a dynamic career in medical imaging through a combination of rigorous classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The program emphasizes patient care, radiation safety, image production, and professional ethics, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills required to excel in healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) national certification exam — a credential recognized nationwide as the gold standard for radiologic technologists. RCC’s Radiography program maintains an exceptional record of graduate success, supported by dedicated faculty, strong clinical partnerships, and a commitment to educational excellence. Learn more about the program at http://rccurl.com/rad.
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About Randolph Community College: Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Ranked No. 1 in North Carolina by Niche.com, the College offers affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs that start throughout the year, both in person and online. To register, visit randolph.edu/register or call 336-633-0200 and expect to engage with the most competent and compassionate team of faculty and staff.