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INFORMATION NIGHT FOR PROSPECTIVE RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS Upcoming Dates: October 14, 2009 January 20, 2010 March 10, 2010 Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Place: Memorial Administration Center, 2420 E. Pikes Peak Ave, Colorado Springs, CO This will be an informative meeting to give an overview of our radiologic technology school. We will cover all information needed to apply for admission. We will also have a question and answer session at the end of the program. Please RSVP @ 719-365-1038.

Guiding Philosophy
Curriculum
Tuition & Expenses
Admission Criteria
Accreditation
Online Application [PDF]
Contact Admissions Representative to Request Information packet
Frequently Asked Questions

Radiological technologists use their knowledge of physics, human anatomy and physiology to create X-rays. The constant growth in this field has created many exciting career opportunities with competitive wage and benefits packages. The accredited, hospital-based training program lasts 24 months and provides hands-on and classroom training. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. For more information, please call 365-6819.

Memorial Hospital Memorial Health System School of Radiologic Technology's mission is: "Dedicated to excellence in education, quality, and safety in diagnostic imaging, by providing compassionate and sensitive patient care, while preparing graduates for service and leadership roles in healthcare in the community."

The school is under the direction of a specialized physician at the hospital, who is also a full-time radiologist at the system. The professional radiology staff comprises the faculty of the school. Students of the school receive an extensive and varied education in the theory and practice of radiologic techniques. They are instructed in the basic sciences and are introduced to the practical aspects of radiologic technology under the supervision of the program director. Practical experience is gained by the student's rotation through all sections of the department.

Guiding Philosophy

The Board of Trustees, professional staff, volunteers and all employees of Memorial HospitalMemorial Health System pledges a commitment to excellence in all we do. We will provide our patients compassionate care and attentive personal service. And, as a municipally owned facility, we will maintain our leadership role promoting health and well being in the community we serve.

Beyond satisfying our patients' individual needs, we will strive to exceed their expectations. We will ensure that they achieve the benefits of modern medicine through the provision of qualified personnel and appropriate technology, while assuring efficient use of resources.

The loyalty, enthusiasm and high esprit de corps of employees are recognized as being essential to fulfill our mission. Therefore, Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System aspires to provide fair compensation, suitable working conditions and opportunities for education and personal growth.

Through competent leadership and a high degree of cooperation among management, individual employees, medical, dental and podiatric practitioners, volunteers, allied health professionals and members of the community at large, Memorial supports it commitment to continuous quality improvement and excellence in patient care and service.

Statement of Objectives

1. The student will demonstrate clinical competence.
2. Students will summarize professional growth and development.
3. Students will be able to communicate in the health care arena.
4. The student will develop critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Accordingly, the educational program of the Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System School of Radiologic Technology is designed to meet the needs of those prepared to actively engage in the field of Radiologic Technology.

The Nature and Purpose of the Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System School of Radiologic Technology

The School of Radiologic Technology is an integral part of the Department of Radiology of Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System. The program is approved by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology and is approved and regulated by the Division of Private Occupational Schools, Department of Higher Education.

Overall Education Plan

The overall education plan of the school consists of keeping abreast of the latest developments and trends in the field of Radiologic Technology, and, at the same time, blending these developments and trends into a curriculum of the School.

The primary aim of the School will still remain to be an outstanding School of Radiologic Technology, graduating the most qualified, professional Radiologic Technologists.

Radiologic Technology -- A Growing Profession

Radiologic Technology is a profession which offers excellent opportunities to well-educated individuals. With the expansions of hospital units and clinics, and the increased use of x-ray in government and industry, the demand for technologists is expected to continue to grow. Employment is, and will be, available in hospitals, industry, government, private physicians offices, dentistry, public health service, and technology education. Radiologic Technologists are also in demand in many foreign countries.

Contribution to Society

The profession of Radiologic Technology is allied to that of the specialized physician, the Radiologist, and is dedicated to the conservation of life and health, and to discovering existing disease. This two-fold function makes Radiologic Technology a profession, which is useful to society. The well-educated Radiologic Technologist has the knowledge and skill, which enable him/her to assist in bringing new health and confidence to countless people. Radiologic Technology offers the opportunity to aid in the development of health programs. These contributions to society offer the satisfaction of pride in service and rich rewards in human gratitude.

Curriculum

First Year Students

First Semester
Exposure and Technique I
Introduction to Radiologic Technology/Patient Care I
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology I
Radiographic Procedures I/Lab/Film Critique I
Oral and Written Communication
Clinical Education I

Second Semester
Exposure and Technique II
Medical Terminology
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology II
Radiographic Procedures II/Lab/Film Critique II
Patient Care II
Clinical Education II

Third Semester
Exposure and Technique III
Patient Care II
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology II
Radiographic Procedures III/Lab/Film Critique III
Film Critique III
Clinical Education III

Second Year Student

Tuition and Expenses

Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System School of Radiologic Technology's tuition is $4,500 per year. $200 is due upon acceptance into the program. Other expenses include books (approximately $600), and uniforms. Students completing prerequisite course work at state and/or regionally accredited institutions are subject to the costs of that institution. All fees are subject to change. Each semester must be paid for prior to starting that semester.

Information regarding financial assistance is available upon request. The school is approved for Veterans Benefits. The school does not participate in the CGSL Program (Title IV Funds).

Admission Criteria

The applicant will be required to submit the following materials along with completed application to the school by May 1:

• Prerequisites now require 2 additional college level general education courses. These are in addition to College Algebra, College English, and College Computer Literacy (total of five). We would prefer the choices come from the following classes: Human Growth and Development, Biology 201, BIO 202 (human anatomy with lab), Interpersonal Communications, or general physics. All prerequisites must have a "C" or better to qualify.
• Three character reference letters sent directly to the school.
• Employment references from your last three places of employment. (Forms provided with application.)
• Include a one page essay (150) words typewritten as to why you wish to become an RT, how you became interested, what you wish to do once you have completed your training, and the qualities you feel you possess which will make you successful in this program/career.
• Complete four hours of observation time in the Radiology Department at Memorial Hospital Central by May 1. The observation time may be completed Monday-Thursday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. (this time must be documented and arranged with the Clinical Instructor of the school at 365-5410).
• A placement test may be needed if credits are 15 years or older, call school for details.
• Complete and return a criminal background check form.
• The Admissions Committee will review all complete applications, and all qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview.
• After your interview, you will be informed in writing of your acceptance to the school. Those applicants not accepted will also receive notification.
• Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by June 1.
• Classes will begin each August.

For more information or to apply, write to Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System Radiologic Technology School, 175 South Union, Suite 240, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910, or call the school at (719) 365-6819.

Accreditation

Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System School of Radiologic Technology offers a two-year (24-month) Associate in Applied Science, which is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. You may access information about our programs validity on the internet by entering www.jrcert.org in your web browser. A copy of Essentials and Guidelines of an Accredited Education Program for the Radiographer is available for review, upon request, in the Program Director's Office. The school is accredited for nine to eighteen students per year. The School is approved by the State Approving Agency for Veterans Benefits, and approved and regulated by the Division of Private Occupational Schools, Colorado Department of Higher Education. After satisfactory completion of the prescribed training, the student is eligible for the examination given by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology. The processing fee for this examination is the responsibility of the student.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Radiologic Technologist do?
A Radiologic Technologist uses ionizing radiation to produce images that diagnose illness. They learn to position patients in ways that visualize anatomy using radiation in a safe manner. Patient care is a major part of the job. They also assist physicians in performing procedures. They travel to all areas of the hospital including surgery, trauma, intensive care units and nurseries.

How do I get certified to take x-rays?
After completing a two-year accredited certificate, associate, or a baccalaureate program, you must pass a national certification exam. You are then a Registered Radiologic Technologist and may take x-rays at any medical facility in the United States. The Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System School of Radiologic Technology has had a 100% pass rate of the national board's exam since 1990. Some states may require additional licensing and fees.

What is the starting salary for Radiologic Technologists?
Based on a national survey by the American Society of Radiographers, the pay range for Radiologic Technologists is $18.00 - $34.00 per hour, based on experience and location.

What are some of the other career opportunities for Radiologic Technologists?
In addition to diagnostic x-ray, you may pursue other specialized areas such as MRI, CT, and Interventional Radiology. Other specialties - Ultrasound, Radiation Therapy, and Nuclear Medicine - require additional training not provided at this program.

What is the outlook for jobs for Radiographers?
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook is much better than average at the present time when compared to other medical fields. Shortages of Radiologic Technologists exist across the nation.

How long has the school been in existence?
The Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System School of Radiologic Technology has been in existence since 1969.

What is the accreditation of the school?
The school received the maximum 8 year accreditation from the Joint Review Committee of Education for Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) in 2003. We are also approved and regulated by the State of Colorado Division of Private Occupational Schools Department of Higher Education.

Who are the instructors for the school?
Elaine Ivan has been the program director since 1990. She has completed her undergraduate degree in organizational management and her Master's degree in adult education. Scott Smith, clinical coordinator, is completing his Master's degree in Adult Education, and Chris Sater is the senior clinical instructor with more than 26 years of X-ray experience. Tawnya Larson, also a graduate of the Memorial Radiology Program, is also a senior clinical instructor.

What degree do you receive upon completion of the program?
Upon completion of the program, you will receive an Associate's Degree of Applied Science.

Are there any other costs incurred while attending the school?
Currently, some other costs involved are books: $500-$700, Scrubs (2): $50-$75, lab coat (1): $35. There may be other costs for supplies as needed.

What type of financial aid do you provide?
We do not participate in Guaranteed Student Loan Program (Title IV). We do accept military V.A. benefits. Please contact your military representative for more details.

What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline for completed applications is May 1st. Interviews (see next question) are conducted during the month of May.

How do we select our prospective students?
Prospective students are selected for interviews based on a point system. You are awarded points for various parts of the completed application including previous coursework in Math and Science, GPAs from high school and college(s), personal and professional job references, work experience, placement test scores, and previous health care experience. Points are also awarded from the panel interview.

What classes would help me in preparing for Radiologic Technology School?
Classes that are awarded preference points for entrance into our radiology school, but are not required are: human anatomy and physiology, biology, physics, math, medical terminology, and pharmacology. You must have a 'C' or better to be awarded the points.

When are the new students selected?
New students are selected and notified the 1st and 2nd week of June in writing.

Do you provide housing?
We do not provide housing. You must secure this on your own.

How long is the program?
The program is 24 months long (6 semesters), including summers.

When do classes start?
Classes start the 1st week of August.

What are the class hours?
The first years class hours are 8:00a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday.

What kind of imaging equipment is available for students?
We have state of the art Siemans DR, AGFA, and Fuji CR filmless imaging equipment.

How many clinical sites are available for students?
We have 6 clinical sites available for students. Two of these sites are level 2 trauma hospitals.

Is there a waiting list for entrance to the school?
We do not have a waiting list for entrance to the school. We select new students from the available applications each year.

Is it possible to receive a Baccalaureate degree?
We do not offer a Baccalaureate degree at this time. Some universities may apply your Radiology credits towards their degrees. Please check with your local university or college for more details.

Is there any evening or on-line classes available?
We do not offer any evening or on-line classes at this time.

Is it possible to work a full time job while attending classes?
While it is possible to work during the program, we recommend that you allow yourself ample time for studying after classes.

How much studying is needed to complete school?
This depends on your learning style. You may need 30 minutes to several hours per night to prepare you for the next day.

Do we get paid for our clinical time?
You do not receive any compensation for clinical education.

Do we get summers off?
Our program is 6 consecutive semesters. You must attend classes during the summers.

How many days do we have off during the school year?
During the first year, you receive 10 personal days, 1 week at Christmas, 1 week in the spring and all major holidays. During your second year you receive 15 personal days, 1 week at Christmas and all major holidays.

Does Memorial Hospital/Memorial Health System provide any financial assistance for its employees?
Memorial employees may qualify for some tuition reimbursement depending on job status. Please contact Memorial's Human Resources Department at 719/365-7247 for more information.

What classes/credits transfer into your program?
Only two classes qualify for transfer of credits - Medical Terminology (must be 4 credits) and Pharmacology, provided you have received a 'C' or better. However, these credits will not be accepted if they are more than 15 years old. They must have been taken from a North Central (or similar) Accredited College. Some previously taken Radiology courses may transfer. Please seek our counseling on this.

What does it mean to be a registered technologist?
In accordance with ARRT?s "Equation for Excellence," candidates for ARRT certification must meet basic requirements in the three components of the equation:

1. Ethics
2. Education
3. Examination

1. Ethics
Every candidate for certification and every applicant for renewal of registration must, according to the governing documents, be a person of good moral character and must not have engaged in conduct that is inconsistent with the ARRT Rules of Ethics, and they must "agree to comply with the ARRT Rules and Regulations and the ARRT Standards of Ethics."
One issue addressed by the Rules of Ethics is the conviction of a crime, including a felony, a gross misdemeanor, or a misdemeanor, with the sole exception of speeding and parking violations. All alcohol and/or drug related violations must be reported. "Conviction" as used in this provision includes:

• a criminal proceeding where a finding or verdict of guilt is made or returned but the adjudication of guilt is either withheld or deferred,
• a proceeding in which the sentence is suspended or stayed,
• a criminal proceeding where the individual enters a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest), or
• a proceeding resulting in a military court-martial.

ARRT investigates all potential violations in order to determine eligibility. Further information may be found on this web site and in the handbooks for each discipline.

2. Education
Eligibility for certification also specifies the satisfaction of educational preparation requirements. For the primary pathyway to certification, eligibility requires the successful completion of the respective discipline?s formal educational program that is accredited by a mechanism acceptable to ARRT. Candidates must also demonstrate competency in didactic coursework and an ARRT-specified list of clinical procedures.

For post-primary pathway to certification, candidates must hold registration in a supporting category and document ARRT-specified clinical experience. Further details may be found in the handbooks available for each of the post-primary certification disciplines.

3. Examination
Finally, eligibility requires candidates for certification, after having met all other qualifications, to pass an examination developed and administered by the ARRT. The exams assess the knowledge and cognitive skills underlying the intelligent performance of the tasks typically required of staff technologists practicing within the respective disciplines. Exam content is specified on this web site and in the respective handbook for each discipline.

What is a limited scope registry?
Some states (includes Colorado) have agreed there may be a need for medical personnel to be to able to produce x-ray images on a limited scale. By applying for and passing the national limited scope exam administered through the ARRT, medical personnel can use x-radiation to produce images of the chest, extremities, skull, and spine of the human body. These areas of anatomy are the only images that can be produced by a limited technologist. Limited scope technologists are not certified to expose other areas of the body or perform fluoroscopy. Limited scope technologists may not sit for the national registry without completing an accredited two radiologic technology program. For more information go to www.arrt.org.

How do I get more information?
You may call the school at 719-365-6819.

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