Schools & Divisions
Within the radiologic sciences profession, there is a need for qualified radiographers with the advanced skills necessary to provide patient services in cardiovascular interventional technology, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and mammography. These professionals require unique skills specific to the specialty. Cardiovascular interventional technologists assist physicians in performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures of the cardiovascular system. These procedures involve the injection of iodinated contrast media to demonstrate diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Computed tomography (CT) technologists image selected planes of the body by combining the use of an x-ray beam and a computer. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologists utilize a magnetic field along with radio waves to create images of patients' anatomy for interpretation by a physician. Mammography technologists operate mammography equipment to produce images of the breasts for diagnostic purposes under direction of a physician.
Program Mission and Goals
The BS Program in Radiologic Sciences is designed to prepare graduates for professional careers in the medical field. The program has set forth the following goals:
Goal 1: Students will demonstrate clinical competence.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate competence in the discipline-specific skills.
- Students will practice radiation protection, if applicable to the discipline.
Goal 2: Students will demonstrate effective communication skills.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate written communication skills.
- Students will demonstrate oral communication skills.
Goal 3: Students will demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will detail procedural and technical adaptations for the trauma patient.
- Students will evaluate images for quality, if applicable.
Goal 4: Students will demonstrate professional values.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will demonstrate appropriate professional values in the clinical setting.
- Students will abide by the ethical obligations of the ARRT Code of Ethics.
Goal 5: Students will be involved in professional continuing education activities to instill a desire for lifelong learning.
Student Learning Outcomes:
- Students will participate in professional continuing education.
Goal 6: The program will provide the medical community with radiographers qualified to perform advanced procedures in cardiovascular interventional technology, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging technology, and mammography and individuals with entry level skills in diagnostic medical sonography and radiation therapy.
Program Effectiveness Measures:
- Graduates will pass the appropriate certification examination on the first attempt.
- Graduates will successfully complete the program in a three year period.
- 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.
Location of Clinicals
Clinical experiences occur in local hospitals, including Community Hospital, Munster; Franciscan Health, Crown Point; Franciscan Health, Michigan City; Northwest Health, LaPorte; Methodist Hospital of Gary, Inc. - Merrillville and Gary; St. Mary Medical Center, Hobart; Northwest Health Porter, Valparaiso.
Graduates of the Program
Graduates receive a Bachelor of Science degree and are eligible to take specialty examinations depending on their clinical concentration.
Credentials Required to Practice
R.T.(R) (ARRT) Registered Radiographer.
Indiana Certification Requirements
State certification is required to operate an x-ray machine. The state accepts the ARRT Registry for certification.
Length of the Program
A new class begins the professional course work in the fall semester and completes the professional year at the end of the following spring semester. Part-time option is also available.
Structure of the Professional Program
All professional courses are offered online. Clinical experience is scheduled in cooperation with the clinical site with most experience during normal daytime hours.
Design of the Professional Curriculum
Classes and clinical experiences are integrated throughout the two semesters.
Opportunity for Students to Work
Students may be employed as radiographers at local area hospitals.
Description of Facilities
The radiologic sciences classroom and offices are located in the Dunes Medical/ Professional Building at IU Northwest. Clinical experience is provided at local area hospitals.