The 6 Best Schools For A Radiologic Technology Major Course

If you’re looking to major in Radiologic Technology, you’ll probably already be aware that there are a good few programs to choose from. A career in medical imaging can be an incredibly rewarding one in which you’ll be a vital member of a healthcare team - as long as you have the right credentials.



The program you choose will determine the type and level of skills that you acquire in technology, patient care and clinical practice - which, in turn, will determine your career path and advancement.
Because of this, it’s imperative that you pick a program which ticks all the right boxes:

What to Look for in a Radiologic Technology Program

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  • Accreditation - The program must be JRCERT accredited as without this, you will be unable to sit the necessary ARRT exam.
  • Pass rates - This one should be a no-brainer (with or without an MRI) - always check out the pass rate of a program to figure out your chances.
  • Clinical partnerships - Having a great academic program is all fine and dandy however you also need proper boots on the ground training and so this one is non-negotiable.
  • Qualification - Always ensure that the program results in a proper qualification that will not only gain you entry into a career in radiology but also give you access to a specialisation such as mammography or computed tomography.

1. MCLA (Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts)

Leading Bachelor's Degree

MCLA stands out as one of the best Radiologic Technology programs in the area of Massachusetts by offering a full four-year Bachelor of Science degree rather than the associate degree model most programs use.

So, what have liberal arts got to do with radiology, I hear you cry? Quite a lot actually. Going one step beyond a straightforward clinical education, this course also promotes critical thinking, creative communication and top notch reasoning skills to round off your training. With an astonishing 100% ARRT pass rate for 2024, this course offers exceptional advanced imaging training coupled with clinical rotations at prestigious healthcare facilities as well as advanced qualification opportunities and specialisations.

2. Massachusetts Bay Community College

Trusted Associate Program

Known locally as MassBay, this well respected program is specifically designed to provide a fast and cost-effective route to ARRT preparation. Students here can expect to combine coursework with clinical sessions in the lab and will have access to leading edge equipment and diverse patient needs. The community college experience means that students can learn everything they need to know - from equipment to positioning techniques - without the cost and time commitment of a Bachelor’s degree program. Better still, this course delivers the accredited education necessary to gain certification and to therefore become a registered radiologic technologist.

3. Quincy College

Dynamic Associate Program

If you’re looking to get on the fast track to a career in radiology, Quincy’s five semester program may be right up your street. Accelerated learning without compromising on quality is the deal here and it does this by focusing on clinical rotations rather than getting too hung up on theory. A great choice for students who already have a degree or want to switch lanes, this program guides you through to certification through diagnostic placements in hospitals and clinics in the South Shore and Boston - helping you to get where you’re going through a more direct route.

4. Massasoit Community College

Accredited Program

With full JRCERT accreditation and impressive success rates, Massoit’s course offers the perfect blend of classroom learning and on-site clinical experiences. While gaining access to the ARRT exam, students will master the nuts and bolts of radiology including advanced imaging procedures, physics and the all-important patient care.

But a mild word of warning: Massoit’s commitment to high standards means that competition is fierce.  But for those who make the cut, they’ll receive an outstanding education surrounded by like-minded folk which will form the grounding for a fantastic career in radiology.

5. North Shore Community College

High Pass-Rate Track

Located on the North Shore (so, not just a clever name), you’ll see this college near the tippety top of the list of Massachusetts radiologic schools - for good reason. North Shore’s solid reputation comes from great pass rates, student satisfaction and career success through partnerships with local healthcare providers. More than just a community college education, this program delivers comprehensive classroom learning teamed with imaging placements at local institutions - giving students an affordable and fast route into their chosen career.

6. Springfield Technical Community College

Established Radiologic Technology Option

Nothing to do with the Simpsons, this college has a reputation that speaks for itself. Founded in 1967, STCC has firmly established itself as one of the best JRCERT-accredited programs in the region with a culture that is laser-focused on healthcare career opportunities. With a great balance of academic and practical training, Springfield’s location offers a wide range of healthcare facilities without the hefty cost of living of Boston, making it affordable as well as effective.

Choosing the Program That’s Best For You

When it comes to making your mind up, there are a few factors that should go into the mix. While all of the schools in this article will get you set for your ARRT, there’s some other stuff to think about, including:

• Location - Will you be able to commute or move to the area?
• Partnerships - Does it have the type of clinical partnerships and career opportunities that I want?
• Budget - Will a full course or community college be more affordable and is funding available?
• Time - How long do I want to commit to a program for?

All these factors should come together to allow you to make an informed decision about your future as a Radiologic Technician and, where possible, it’s a really good idea to visit the college to get a feel for the campus and even talk to some of the current students to get the lowdown on life as a radiology student.

Good luck with your search!