For most people, the term “x-ray” creates an image of someone who has been injured and must have an x-ray to rule out or confirm a broken bone. Due to advancements in technology, today radiation is used to produce images of the body internally and to treat cancer. Special modalities such as Mammography, Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Nuclear Medicine, and Computed Tomography (CT) are growing rapidly.
Radiographers produce x-ray images (radiographs) of the human body for use in diagnosing medical problems. They interact with patients by explaining procedures and various positioning techniques necessary to produce quality images of the body. An extensive knowledge of radiography equipment is essential to produce quality radiographs. Radiographers are highly skilled individuals who through the use of high tech equipment are a vital part of the healthcare team.
Students in OCtech’s Radiologic Technology (RAD) program receive a technological education consisting of classroom and clinical experience. Students get “hands on” experience by assisting the radiographer and radiologist in examining patients for disease or injuries by using various imaging modalities and radiographic equipment. RAD students are also exposed to other areas of the hospital in which radiographic procedures are performed, such as in the Emergency Room, Surgery, Intensive Care Unit, Cardiac Care Unit, Nursery, or the patient’s room utilizing mobile X-ray units, Computed Tomography, Nuclear Medicine, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Ultrasound, Radiation Therapy, Heart Cath, and Special Procedures.
The mission of the Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College Department of Radiologic Technology is to provide a comprehensive education in the science of radiography that will allow graduates to deliver efficient healthcare and contribute to the life of the communities of interest.
The program goals are:
Goal 1: The student will apply critical thinking skills.
Goal 2: The student will demonstrate clinical competency.
Goal 3: The student will demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively.
Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the official registry exam given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (A.R.R.T.). Upon passing the exam, they are entitled to use the abbreviation R.T. (R.) (A.R.R.T.), which means Registered Radiographer, following their name.
OCtech’s Radiologic Technology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850, Chicago, IL 60606-3182; telephone number: (312 ) 704-5300; e-mail address: mail@jrcert.org or website: www.jrcert.org
With additional education, Radiologic Technology can be a stepping stone for careers in the related allied health professions, such as Radiation Therapy, Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound, Education, Management, Special Procedures, Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Mammography.
Classes begin in the fall semester only. Admission to the Radiologic Technology program is based on successful completion of all required program paperwork and admission requirements to include placement tests and proof of high school diploma or G.E.D. Admission requirements may be obtained by attending a Health Information Programs Session or online at www.octech.edu. All applicants are required to attend a session face-to-face or online as part of the admissions process. A listing of scheduled sessions can be obtained from the Admissions Office or online at www.octech.edu. It is highly recommended that students job shadow prior to applying to the program.
Clinical facilities require students to have a Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen prior to participating in clinical rotations. Students will be required to have a Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen through facilities specified by the College only.
Criminal Background Checks and Drug Screens will be reviewed with designated personnel at the clinical facility. All findings must be satisfactory with the clinical facility prior to clinical placement. Students not accepted for clinical rotations will not be able to successfully complete the course or program. Students are responsible for all fees associated with drug screens and background checks.
Proof of current CPR certification before entering RAD clinical educational centers is required. Proof of CPR should include infant, child, adult and AED-BLS for healthcare providers. Out-of-town travel will be required for selected clinical experiences. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the clinical sites. Sites are located in Orangeburg, Columbia and Manning. All students will rotate to the various clinical sites.
Minimum grade of “B” (80%) competency required in all Radiology courses and AHS 145.
Minimum grade of “C” is required in all related courses.
