Radiology is a science involving the medical use of x-rays, radium, and radioactive isotopes in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Radiographers are essential members of the health care team. They are experts in the performance of examinations requiring the use of x-rays and highly complex machinery to produce a quality x-ray image (radiograph) of the internal parts of the body for interpretation by a medical doctor (radiologist).

Radiographers find employment possibilities in various medical settings, ranging from doctors' offices to large medical centers. In addition, some seek employment in industry or in the marketing and sales of x-ray products.

Length of the Program

24 months beginning in May. Professional course work begins in Summer Session II.

Structure of the Program

The Radiography Program is a full-time day program involving classroom and laboratory experiences on campus and clinical experiences at local hospitals.

Design of the Professional Curriculum

The curriculum follows a pattern designed to train the student to become adept in the performance of diagnostic radiologic procedures. Courses in radiologic principles, radiographic procedures, clinical application of theory, and general education are included in the curriculum.

The Associate Degree Radiography Program offered by Indiana University Northwest is designed to prepare students for professional careers as radiographers in the medical field. By providing pertinent learning experiences, the program faculty strives to develop students' interests in lifelong learning through the professional societies and continuing education. The curriculum is designed in accordance with the guidelines established by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

Program Goals and Learning Outcomes

The Radiography Program has set forth the following goals and learning outcomes: 

Goal 1:  Students will demonstrate clinical competence.

Student Learning Outcomes:

• Students will demonstrate proper positioning skills.
• Students will demonstrate continued competence in positioning skills.
• Students will select appropriate technical factors.
• Students will demonstrate continued competence in selecting appropriate technical factors.
• Students will evaluate the quality of radiographic images and procedures.
• Students will practice radiation protection.

Goal 2:  Students will demonstrate effective communication skills.

• Students will demonstrate written communication skills.
• Students will demonstrate oral communication skills.

Goal 3:  Students will demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills.

• Students will detail procedural and technical adaptations for a trauma patient.
• Students will evaluate the quality of radiographic images and procedures.

Goal 4:  Students will demonstrate professional values.

• Students will demonstrate appropriate professional values in the clinical setting.
• Students will detail the ethical obligations described in the ARRT Code of Ethics.

Goal 5:  Students will be involved in professional continuing education activities to instill a desire for lifelong learning.

• Students will participate in professional continuing education, through the investigation of an emerging technology.

Goal 6:  Students will be involved in the community we serve.

• Student will reflect on their participation in community service activities.

Goal 7: The program will provide the medical community with individuals qualified to perform radiographic procedures.

• Graduates will pass the ARRT certification examination on the first attempt.
• Graduates will successfully complete the program in a three-year time frame.
• Employers will express confidence in the overall quality of graduates’ skills.
• Graduate will express confidence in the overall quality of their skills.
• Of those pursuing employment, students will be gainfully employed within 12 months post-graduation.

Assessment data for the Radiography Program’s Effective Measures described in Goal #7 are available for review by way of a link on the IUN website at http://www.iun.edu/radiologic-sciences/degrees/as-radiography.htm

Opportunities for Students to Work

Students often seek employment in part-time positions outside the program. These positions cannot interfere with clinical and class schedules and must be balanced with necessary study time.

Program Facilities

The Radiography Program offices and classrooms are located in the Dunes Medical/ Professional Building at IU Northwest.

Location of Clinicals

Clinical experiences occur in local hospitals, including the Community Hospital, Munster; Franciscan Health, Hammond; Franciscan Health, Crown Point; Franciscan Health, Michigan City; LaPorte Hospital, Inc.; Methodist Hospital of Gary, Inc.- Merrillville and Gary; St. Mary Medical Center, Hobart; Porter Hospital, Valparaiso.  

Additional Costs

In addition to regular university tuition and fees, students should expect to pay program-related expenses such as books, uniforms, physical examination, lead markers, and radiation monitoring.

Accreditation